Modern Languages and and with Film Studies

This degree programme in Modern Languages and Film Studies at the University of Birmingham offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich linguistic, cultural, and cinematic landscapes of the modern world. Combining comprehensive language instruction with in-depth analysis of film and media, this programme is designed to develop both linguistic proficiency and critical understanding of visual culture. Students can choose from a variety of modern languages, including French, Spanish, German, Italian, or other options, tailoring their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The course modules cover a wide range of topics, from language acquisition and literature to contemporary film theory, history, and production techniques. Throughout the programme, students engage with diverse cultural texts, fostering cross-cultural understanding and analytical skills. The programme emphasizes both practical language skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, media, arts management, translation, or further academic research. Practical language components include speaking, writing, reading, and listening exercises, as well as opportunities for immersive experiences such as study abroad placements. The Film Studies component offers analyses of classic and contemporary films, exploration of film genres, and insights into cinematic history and theory. Students are encouraged to develop their critical thinking, visual literacy, and interdisciplinary approaches to cultural studies. The programme benefits from the University of Birmingham’s modern facilities, expert faculty, and strong links to cultural institutions and industry professionals. With a balance of language skills, cultural insight, and film analysis, this degree prepares students to navigate and contribute to the interconnected worlds of language, culture, and media. Graduates leave equipped with transferable skills in communication, analysis, research, and cultural awareness, making them highly employable across numerous sectors worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

First Year

You will study one or two modern languages alongside Film Studies. Film Studies modules in the first year offer an introduction to the subject and the chance to study some landmark films such as Eisenstein’s Battleship Potemkin and Fritz Lang’s M. The precise structure of your programme will depend on whether you are studying one or two languages.

Second year

You will continue your study of one or two languages at advanced level. If you took two languages in the first year, you can continue to study two equally or there is the option of specialising in one language. You will also study many classic and contemporary European and North American films on a range of modules that cover European and North American film, and the national cinemas of France, Spain, Italy and Germany.

Year abroad

The third year is spent abroad. You attend centres of learning in the country or countries of your language(s) of study. You may also, if you are going to a French or German-speaking country, spend the year as a teaching assistant. Work placements are available for some language combinations. The year abroad is one of the most exciting aspects of the programme and many graduates remember it as one of the best years of their life.

Fourth year

In the fourth year you can continue to study two languages or can specialise in one. You will take at least one language module in your chosen language(s) and options in Film Studies such as Avant-Garde Currents in French Cinema or an Extended Essay in European Film (6000 words on a topic of your choice).

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

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

Requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: ABB

International Baccalaureate: 34 points

Required subjects and grades: Those studying French will need an A level or equivalent. for German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese or Russian you need an A level in the chosen language for the post-A level course. Applicants planning to take ab initio German, Italian, Spanish or Russian need at least a grade B GCSE in a language

Additional information:

Other qualifications are considered.

Please note that where two languages are studied it is not possible to combine Spanish with Russian, nor Italian with Portuguese. Where two languages are studied, you must have an A level or equivalent in one of these languages. Any of the languages apart from French can be studied ab initio, but German and Spanish can only be studied ab initio as part of Pathways 1 and 2. Portuguese is only available in Pathways 1 and 2.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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 Birmingham.

The Modern Languages programme at the University of Birmingham offers students the opportunity to develop advanced proficiency in one or more European languages, including but not limited to French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. This degree emphasizes the acquisition of communication skills, cultural understanding, and linguistic competence, enabling graduates to engage effectively in international contexts. Students typically undertake a combination of language learning and cultural studies, with options to study modules on literature, history, politics, and contemporary society related to their chosen language(s). The programme often includes opportunities for study abroad, internships, or work placements, providing practical experience and a deeper immersion into the language and culture.

The curriculum is designed to support the development of critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural awareness. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, language workshops, and multimedia resources, facilitating a comprehensive learning experience. Assessment methods may include written exams, essays, oral presentations, and language proficiency tests. The programme aims to prepare students for careers in international business, diplomacy, translation and interpreting, education, media, and cultural management, among others. graduates leave with a strong linguistic foundation and cultural literacy, equipping them to operate effectively in globalized environments. The University of Birmingham is renowned for its strong emphasis on employability and innovative teaching, making this Modern Languages degree a valuable qualification for those seeking international career opportunities.