In a globalised world, the ability to communicate in more than one language is hugely beneficial – it offers the potential for exciting opportunities, from travel, to connecting with other people, to building self-confidence. It opens many doors, as languages are highly sought after by employers, giving you an edge in the job market for a range of careers. Languages and cultures are interconnected and engaging in a variety of cultures will broaden your horizons, developing your skills in critical thinking, communication, empathy, analysis, intercultural understanding, openness, and adaptability. 

On this dynamic and diverse subject activity strand, you will take part in language and/or culture taster sessions in Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish*, led by enthusiastic expert researchers across the departments. Alongside languages, you will engage in past and contemporary cultural issues and may explore areas such as politics, society, identity, film, visual media, history, food, literature, etc., in addition to finding out more about our Study / Work Abroad programme. You will interact with current students and find out about their personal experiences studying at university, and you will be supported by staff and Exeter Student Ambassadors who will offer guidance and be available to discuss any queries you may have.  

No prior experience or proficiency in any languages is required! This subject activity strand is suitable for both beginners and advanced students, and is ideal not only if you’re considering applying for a language-based degree, but equally if you’re thinking of studying a language alongside a different subject as a Combined Honours degree (e.g. English and French, Politics and Spanish, etc.) or Flexible Combined Honours degree (e.g. Mathematics and Italian, Economics and Chinese (Mandarin), etc.)  

This subject activity strand is the perfect way to find out if studying a language (or languages) at degree level is the right choice for you, while gaining practical experience in an insightful, fun, challenging, and varied environment.

*Subject to availability, you may receive tasters in Turkish and/or Persian