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The BA Modern Languages course at Birkbeck University of London offers students the opportunity to study five modern languages: French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish. This interdisciplinary degree allows students to explore the cultural, historical and linguistic aspects of these languages, as well as their roles in contemporary society. Students will learn how to communicate effectively in each language, develop a deep understanding of the cultures associated with them, and cultivate critical thinking skills. The course is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in fields such as translation, interpretation, teaching, or cultural exchange.
Students can choose to specialize in one language or study a combination of two or more languages. The course also offers opportunities for studying abroad and participating in language immersion programs. Birkbeck University of London is located in the heart of London, providing students with access to a diverse range of cultural events, exhibitions, and resources.
Birkbeck University of London is a leading research institution in the field of modern languages. Our faculty members are experts in their fields and provide students with high-quality teaching and mentorship. The university's location in central London offers students unparalleled access to cultural events, resources, and networking opportunities.
Our BA Modern Languages gives you the opportunity to specialize in one or two languages from a choice of French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish.
If you choose to study one language, you will normally enter with at least AS- or A-level (or equivalent) in that language (except Japanese, which allows beginner-level entry), and your eventual degree title will be one of the following to reflect this specialization*:
BA French Studies
BA German Studies
BA Japanese Studies
BA Spanish and Latin American Studies
Graduates can pursue career paths in education, publishing, commerce, and banking. Possible professions include:
translator
interpreter
secondary school teacher
broadcast journalist
English as a Foreign Language teacher.
We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.
You must have at least A-level/B2 (CEFR) competence in one of your two languages, unless the stronger of your two languages is Japanese, in which case GCSE-level (70% of the content that is needed to pass the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test N5) is sufficient. Your second language can be at any level from beginner onwards. The course is also suitable for applicants at proficiency and native speaker level.
20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.
Doing Languages
Cultures and Applied Linguistics
SURVEY OPTION MODULES:
Advanced Seminar in Japanese Culture and Society
Contemporary Literature in French (Level 5)
Manga and Anime (Level 6)
Popular Culture in Japan and East Asia
Theorising Japanese Cinema
Word and Image: Constructing the Other in the Hispanic World (Level 5)
CULTURE OPTION MODULES:
Culture and Crisis (Level 5)
Culture and Image
Culture and Text
Reading Transnational Cultures
Representations of Love, Desire, and Sexuality
Rethinking Japan: Introduction to Modern Japanese Society and Culture (Level 4)
Themes in European and Japanese Cinema
Themes in the European and Japanese Novel
Other programmes you might be interested in.
For any enquiries or further details, please don't hesitate to contact us. Let's take the next step in your academic journey together.
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