Studying languages not only unlocks global cultures but also transforms you into a versatile communicator, making you a valuable asset for many industries.
When you choose languages, you’re opening a world of opportunities for career growth because knowing multiple languages makes you a valuable asset in our interconnected global landscape.
Being multilingual puts you in high demand across various industries, from international business and diplomacy to translation, journalism, and tourism. Your ability to bridge communication gaps opens conversation for cross-cultural understanding, making you indispensable in an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world.
The impact you could make
- Enhance the impact of international aid and development initiatives.
- Inspire a more interconnected world where diverse perspectives are valued, celebrated and understood,
- Contribute to more accurate storytelling, promoting a global exchange of information.
What you could study
- Linguistics
- Translation and interpreting
- Written and oral grammar
- Science of language and communication
- History of language
- Literature and culture
- History
- Politics
Chat to students
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Example module
“I absolutely love the vast range of culture modules offered in Hispanic studies; they had some environment focused ones that I absolutely loved. Aquatic Latin America and Climate Fictions in the Hispanic World were undoubtedly my favourites.”
Second year modern languages student (French and Spanish), University of Warwick
Example assignment
“I enjoyed writing my feminist essay on exploring linguistic oppression. I also enjoyed doing my weekly Italian oral presentations on different topics, like climate change.”
Second year Italian and English literature student, Royal Holloway University
Your chosen language
English
History
74% of students
studying languages would recommend the subject to others
(UCAS subejct guide survey 2023)
Hard skills you'll develop
- Fluency in another language
- Ability to translate and interpret
- Understanding of different grammatical structures
- Knowledge of cultural traditions and customs
Soft skills you'll develop
- Cultural sensitivity
- Communication skills
- Curiosity
- Tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty
Available jobs
17,843 vacancies in the past year
3.56% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£37,368
Up to £55,636
What is an… intelligence analyst?
Imagine working for a government agency analysing foreign language sources to extract critical insights on geopolitical developments, security threats, and economic trends… That’s exactly what an intelligence analyst does! By decrypting coded messages, monitoring international communications, and collaborating with counterparts globally, they piece together a comprehensive understanding of emerging challenges.
Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study languages at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from languages applicants.
A levels
ABB
Scottish Highers
AABBB
Vocational
BTEC DDM
Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative
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Watch foreign films
Immersing yourself in films spoken in the language of your choice will make you more familiar with that language. Platforms like MUBI host lots of foreign films. -
TED Talks
Watch talks that will keep you inspired to learn a new language. -
MI5 website
Take a look at where languages could take you in MI5 if you're intrigued about the career options available to you.
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
- Are you curious about different cultures? How does learning languages align with your desire to explore and understand different global perspectives?
- Mention any previous language learning experiences, whether through formal classes or self-study.
- Did you achieve high grades in a particular language? That will showcase your ability to learn.
- Share any experiences of traveling to regions where the languages you want to study are spoken, emphasising how these experiences have fuelled your passion for languages.
- If you have specific interests in linguistic or cultural research mention them to show your intellectual curiosity.