Language Studies

Description

Our BA Language Studies is a three-year course that enables you to study up to four languages (out of French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish). At least one modern language must be taken up to Proficiency level, meaning it is an ideal course if you want to acquire practical language skills and key skills. Many of our graduates use this course to join a PGCE programme and then become successful teachers of the languages they studied at Essex.

You dont have to have studied a language at school in order to study it to Proficiency level at Essex: our intensive (double) modules (in German, Italian and Spanish), combined with a summer vacation course in a country you are studying the language of, enable you to reach level B2 (advanced) in a year. Portuguese can also be studied from scratch (via a conversion module) for those of you with A-level Spanish or equivalent knowledge. If you intend to take French as the major language, you must achieve at least grade C at A-level. All five languages can be studied from scratch as minor languages. In each language, we offer core modules at all six different levels recognised in the Common European Framework and also, for each language, we offer a range of thematic modules on contemporary cinema, culture, society, art, or history designed to increase your cultural awareness, as well as modules designed to develop professional skills

On our BA Language Studies, two of the four modules you take in your final year (whether in the same or different languages) must be taken up to at least Proficiency level (C1 in the system used in the Common European Framework), and the other two modules (whether in the same of different languages) up to at least Advanced/Threshold level (B1). However, you can achieve an even higher level of attainment (Mastery level, C2) if you spend an appropriate amount of time abroad during your vacations in a country where the relevant language is spoken.

Our BA Language Studies is a three-year course without a year abroad, so differs from our four-year BA Modern Languages which has an integral year abroad spent working or studying.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our course are flexibility and choice. In your first, second and third year all your modules areoptional. However, you must take three language modules. Your final optional module can be taken from across the faculty. There is a great deal of choice for these optional modules due to the extensive range of modules offered by our departments.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Three language options; and
one language or social science option

Year 2

Three language options; and
one language or social science option

Year 3

Three language options; and
one language or social science option

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
• If French or Portuguese is taken as the major language, A-level French or Portuguese/Spanish (or equivalent) is required. German, Italian and Spanish can be studied as the major language either from scratch, via our intensive route, or via our post A-level route. All languages can be studied from scratch as the minor language.
• If you are interested in studying a language for which you consider yourself to be a native speaker, please contact our Undergraduate Admissions Office.

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Language Studies program at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of various languages and their associated cultures. This course aims to develop students’ proficiency in one or more languages while providing a broad understanding of linguistic structures, cultural contexts, and contemporary issues related to language use around the world. The program combines theoretical linguistics, practical language skills, and intercultural communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers in areas such as translation, interpretation, teaching, international relations, and global business. Students enrolled in the program benefit from access to state-of-the-art language laboratories, extensive library resources, and opportunities for immersion through study abroad programs and work placements. The curriculum typically includes language modules at different levels, linguistics courses covering phonetics, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics, and cultural studies focusing on regions where the language is spoken. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and communication skills, which are highly valued in today’s interconnected world. The program also encourages research, critical analysis, and independent learning, helping students to build a solid foundation for postgraduate study or professional employment. Throughout the course, students are supported by experienced academic staff with expertise in various languages and linguistic disciplines. The University of Essex’s reputation for excellent teaching, combined with a vibrant international community, ensures a stimulating environment for language learners. Graduates of the program often find employment in multiple sectors, including diplomatic services, international NGOs, media, education, and private enterprise. The program’s structure allows for specialization in specific languages, including but not limited to English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and German, tailored to students’ interests and career goals. Overall, the Language Studies program at the University of Essex equips students with essential linguistic skills and cultural insights, fostering a global perspective that is vital in today’s competitive job market.