Language Studies (Hons) University of Portsmouth

Overview

Begin your studies as a complete novice, or with some knowledge of the language, and successfully complete your studies to a professional level – C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) – without being required to spend a whole year abroad.

You'll have the choice to study either:

• One language in-depth: French, German or Spanish at an advanced or beginner level, or Mandarin Chinese at a beginner level
• Two languages at advanced level: chosen from French, German, Spanish and/or English as a foreign language
• Two languages at different levels: one language at advanced level (chosen from French, German, Spanish or English as a foreign language) and one language at beginner level (chosen from French, German, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish)

When you complete this BA Language Studies (Hons) degree course from University of Portsmouth , you'll be well prepared to begin work that showcases your intercultural awareness and language skills – such as an international English language teacher, a translator for a multinational corporation in any sector, a tour guide for an international travel agent, or a bilingual language editor or publisher.

Course highlights

• Put your language skills into practice in simulations, scenario exercises, television broadcasts and debates, so you’re ready to thrive in the wide world of work
• Develop multilingual IT skills including the use of desktop publishing and podcast recording software
• Immerse yourself in learning a language (or two) to fluency without needing to spend a year abroad - although you'll have the option to study abroad if you want to
• Choose to mix and match optional modules, or tailor your course by selecting modules specifically within one of four specialisms:

• teaching and education
• translation and interpreting
• culture and linguistics

• business and industry

Career opportunities:

Having the ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultures in different contexts can lead to a rewarding career in areas such as tourism, teaching, journalism and marketing, in the UK and internationally.

The additional skills that knowing a language brings can also make you more employable in an increasingly global workforce. The growing use of tools such as video conferencing means you're more likely to work with colleagues in other countries, regardless of whether your own role is mobile or not. In fact, 16% of companies worldwide are completely remote, and 85% of managers believe their future teams will include remote workers (Findstack).

The language skills, intercultural awareness and proficiency in communication you gain from studying this course are especially sought after by businesses and organisations that operate across national borders and cultures.

What jobs can you do with a language studies degree?

You'll graduate with the skills and understanding to take up roles in many fields including:

• teacher – modern foreign languages or English as a foreign language
• international journalist or editor
• translator/interpreter
• tourist guide
• bilingual consultant
• publishing assistant
• market analyst

What areas can you work in with a language studies degree?

This degree broadens your options so you can pursue almost any career. Learning a second language is useful in all sectors, including:

• international management
• translation and interpreting
• marketing
• journalism and the media
• teaching
• tourism
• finance

You could also continue your studies at postgraduate level with a Master's in a subject such as Translation Studies or Applied Linguistics and TESOL.