Modern Languages and English BA (Hons)

Birmingham’s fusion of language and culture places employability at its heart, preparing you to live and work as an engaged citizen of the world.

Studying a modern language from beginner or advanced level (French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish or Portuguese), alongside English is highly complementary and an exciting way to contextualise your knowledge in each discipline. At Birmingham, undergraduate language is taught through the lens of the target culture's literature, history, politics and society, and through total immersion on the Year Abroad.

The undergraduate English Literature pathway allows you to study the ways in which literary culture has engaged with and shaped society and how it continues to do so today. You will benefit from unparalleled resources, such as the study of Shakespeare through our Shakespeare Institute and exciting new collaboration with the RSC. The English Language pathway will develop your understanding of the linguistic, social and political issues surrounding language.

Employability

Over 90% of our Modern Languages and our English graduates enter work or further study within six months of graduation (DLHE 2016).

English and Modern Languages graduates have a range of highly-valued skills:

• Understanding and appreciation of other cultures
• Communication skills in English and another language
• Critical thinking skills
• The ability to research, analyse and interpret complex information
• Independence and experience of living abroad
• Leadership and teamwork
• Forming concise and articulate arguments
• Time management