Modern Languages

The Modern Languages programme at the University of Oxford offers students an exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in the study of diverse languages and literatures, fostering a deep understanding of different cultures and societies. This comprehensive course is designed to develop your language proficiency to high levels through intensive language training, alongside rigorous academic exploration of literary texts, cultural contexts, and linguistic structures. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies by choosing from a wide range of languages, including French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and others, often with the option to combine two languages in a joint or combined course structure.

The programme’s curriculum balances language acquisition with cultural studies, offering modules that cover historical contexts, contemporary issues, and literary analysis. Through seminars, tutorials, and independent research, students enhance their critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural competence. The programme emphasizes both written and spoken proficiency, ensuring students are prepared for careers in areas such as diplomacy, publishing, education, international business, and translation.

Students benefit from Oxford’s extensive resources, including world-class libraries and access to native speakers and cultural institutions. The academic staff comprises experts in their fields who provide personalized tutorials and mentorship, supporting students to excel academically and develop professional skills. The course typically spans three to four years, with options for integrating study abroad semesters or placements that provide real-world language practice and cultural immersion.

Graduates of the Modern Languages programme leave equipped with advanced language skills, a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity, and adaptable analytical abilities. The program’s rigorous academic environment and global outlook prepare students to thrive in an interconnected world, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about languages, literature, and intercultural engagement.

The MSt in Modern Languages allows you to undertake advanced work in one for two literatures, working in Medieval Studies, Renaissance Studies, or Modern Literary Studies. The degree comprises three components:

• two special subject options  
• a theoretical or methodological component
• a dissertation of not more than 12,000 words

If you wish to proceed to a research degree, the MSt will allow you to work towards the identification of a precise thesis subject and to gather research materials. This degree is also suitable if you do not wish to proceed to a research degree, as it enables you to build upon your undergraduate studies and acquire some knowledge of literary theory.

You may choose to pursue a single language or study two literatures, including English, comparatively. You may also follow programmes in European Enlightenment, cultural studies, or medieval literatures. 

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in the relevant modern language for their proposed study, or a similar course of academic study with substantial course components in the area of the modern language to be studied. Degree level competence in at least one modern language is a requirement for admission.

Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a high first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.75 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement: Up to 700 words
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme

The Modern Languages program at the University of Oxford offers students the opportunity to develop advanced proficiency in one or more foreign languages, alongside a comprehensive study of the literatures, cultures, and societies of the regions where these languages are spoken. The program typically involves rigorous language training, coupled with modules that explore historical, literary, and cultural contexts. Students are encouraged to engage with authentic texts, media, and cultural practices, enabling them to develop both linguistic competence and intercultural awareness. The curriculum often includes a mix of language classes, optional modules in literature, film, history, and other relevant disciplines, providing a multidisciplinary approach to the study of modern languages. Students may have opportunities for study abroad, internships, or research projects to deepen their practical language skills and cultural understanding. Assessment methods generally include written exams, oral examinations, essays, and presentations, designed to evaluate language proficiency and critical analysis. Graduates of the program gain valuable skills in communication, cultural literacy, and analytical thinking, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, translation, international business, academia, journalism, and more. The program benefits from Oxford’s extensive resources, distinguished faculty, and a vibrant academic community dedicated to language and cultural studies. Students are supported through personalized tutorials, workshops, and access to specialized facilities such as language labs and libraries. The overall aim of Oxford’s Modern Languages degree is to produce experts who are not only fluent in their chosen language(s) but also possess a deep understanding of the cultural contexts that shape modern societies around the world, fostering global perspectives and intercultural competence.