| UCAS code | R901 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Modern Languages and Cultures |
| Contact |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC |
| UCAS code | R902 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Modern Languages and Cultures |
| Contact |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBC |
Overview
- Highly flexible programme which allows you to structure your studies around your interests or follow a specific career-orientated pathway.
- Choose from Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
- Study one, two or three languages from Beginners level or post A-level.
- Develop practical competency, employability skills and intercultural awareness
- Option to spend your third year studying or working abroad in a country where you can develop your chosen language
- Engage with the culture of the societies where your language is spoken, choosing from options on linguistics, history, politics, literature, philosophy, gender studies, visual culture and film.
- Broaden your horizons by taking modules in other languages, including Japanese, Korean, British Sign Language or Arabic, or even in TESOL and other disciplines such as Business or International Relations.
Study 1-3 languages with 7 language options to choose from
Top 150 in world subject rankings for Modern Languages and Cultures
QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
All languages ranked top 10 in the Complete University Guide 2025
Option to spend a year abroad studying at a partner university or in employment
Study 1-3 languages with 7 language options to choose from
Top 150 in world subject rankings for Modern Languages and Cultures
QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
All languages ranked top 10 in the Complete University Guide 2025
Option to spend a year abroad studying at a partner university or in employment
Studying Modern Languages isn’t just about poring over endless grammar notes! Our course is so rich and varied that you will have the fantastic opportunity to develop not only your language skills, but a knowledge and interest in the culture of your chosen languages.
If you ask any student about the course, I very much doubt you will come away without them mentioning the Year Abroad, which for many is the highlight of the four years. I still cannot quite believe that I managed to go from working as a waitress over the summer in France, to studying in Italy, then to working as a marketing assistant in Spain all within the space of a year!
Aside from massively improving my language skills and cultural knowledge, this year definitely opened my eyes to the amazing opportunities out there for language students, and certainly made me realise how well my course and the support at the University of Exeter has prepared me for more exciting opportunities like this in the future.
Kate
BA Modern Languages (French, Italian and Spanish)
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | ABB | View our Language entry requirements below |
| IB | 32/655 | View our Language entry requirements below |
| BTEC | DDM | View our Language entry requirements below |
| GCSE | C or 4 | English Language |
| Access to HE | 24 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade | Dependent on level chosen the required L3 credits in Modern Foreign Language subject area. |
| T-Level | Distinction | Dependent on subjects chosen, GCE AL in a Modern Foreign Language will also be required. |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: BBC |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
Find out more about our Language entry requirements
Completing your UCAS form
When completing your UCAS form for R901 or R902, indicate your proposed subjects under ‘Further details’ in the ‘choices’ section of the application using the abbreviations, separated by a space as below.
It may be possible to study further languages to a lower level of proficiency than degree level in the Language Centre, subject to demand: this is arranged on registration at Exeter. For further information on completing your UCAS form, please visit the UCAS website.
When applying to a Combined Honours degree with a modern language you will need to indicate, under ‘further details’ in the ‘choices’ section of the application, the language and route you wish to study using the codes above. Please note that you may choose only one language. For further information on completing your UCAS form, please visit the UCAS site. For more information on language requirements for our Combined Honours degrees, visit the individual pages for these programmes in the degrees list on the Modern Languages and Cultures page.
| French | Fren |
| Chinese (Mandarin) | Chin |
| German | Germ |
| Italian | Ital |
| Portuguese | Port |
| Russian | Russ |
| Spanish | Span |
Course content
The Modern Languages degree programme is made up of compulsory (core) and optional modules, which are worth 15 or 30 credits each, worth a total of 120 credits each year. Take up to 30 credits outside the department through modularity.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
If you choose the with International Placement variant of this course, your placement will take place in Year 3.
e You must take one of these modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SML3010 | Work and Study Abroad [see note e above] | 120 |
| SML3020 | Study Abroad at a Partner University (with Assessment in the Foreign Language) [see note e above] | 120 |
| SML3025 | Internship Abroad Combined with Study at a Partner University Abroad [see note e above] | 120 |
Language options
As part of the four-year Modern Languages course, you will choose from one of seven languages taught at Exeter. The exact languages you study can be tailored to your interests and needs once you get here.
In addition, there is also the possibility to take modules in the Language Centre or the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies as a second or third language through modularity, subject to approval.
Please note that you can only start a new language in years one and two.
Language combinations
Students taking only one language in Year 1 can add a Beginners level language in Year 2. Students taking two languages in Year 1 can add a third (Beginners level) language in Year 2, subject to performance in the first two languages.
| Number of languages selected | Advanced level languages available | Beginners level languages available |
|---|---|---|
|
One language: at Beginners or Advanced* level |
French; German; Italian; Russian; Spanish; |
Chinese (Mandarin); French; German; Italian; Portuguese; Russian; Spanish |
|
Two languages: One new language at Beginners level and one at Advanced* level OR both at Advanced* level |
French; German; Italian; Russian; Spanish |
Chinese (Mandarin); French; German; Italian; Portuguese; Russian; Spanish |
|
Three languages: Two languages at Advanced* level and one new language at Beginners level OR three languages at Advanced* level |
French; German; Italian; Russian; Spanish |
Chinese (Mandarin); French; German; Italian; Portuguese; Russian; Spanish |
*Post-A level or equivalent
Pathways
Students have the option of studying languages at Beginners and Advanced level, depending on the number of languages they choose to study. The sample pathways below show the possible routes you could take for your BA Modern Languages. It is only possible to study one language ab initio. Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese are currently only available ab initio.
Pathway A - One language
Study one language and graduate with BA (Hons) in one language, e.g. BA (Hons) French.
Students can choose to study one Beginners or one Advanced language in Year 1. Please see the Overview above for details of languages available.
Year 1
You will study 1st year core language modules, plus you can select from a variety of modules covering areas such as cultural, literary and linguistics topics. You can also study modules from other disciplines outside of Modern Languages such as Politics and History.
Year 2
You will study 2nd year core language modules, plus you can select from a variety of modules covering areas such as cultural, literary and linguistics topics. You can also study modules from other disciplines outside of Modern Languages such as Politics and History.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of the language either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
You will study final year core language modules, plus you can select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the language. You can also study modules from other disciplines outside of Modern Languages such as Politics and History.
Pathway B - Two equal languages
Study two languages and graduate with BA (Hons) in two languages, e.g. BA (Hons) Italian and Spanish.
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core language modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include core language modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of the language either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include core language modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Pathway C - Three equal languages
Study three languages and graduate with a BA (Hons) in three languages, e.g. BA (Hons) Italian, Russian and Spanish.
Year 1
Your study will include 1st year core language modules for the three languages. Plus you can select two option modules, covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects, from any of the three languages.
Year 2
Your study will include 2nd year core language modules for the three languages. Plus you can select two option modules, covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects, from any of the three languages.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of the language either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
Your study will include final year core language modules for the three languages. Plus you can select two option modules, covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects, from any of the three languages.
Pathway D - Two equal languages from Year 1 with a third taken up in Year 2
Start by studying two languages, then take up a third language in Year 2. Graduate with a BA (Hons) in three languages, e.g. BA (Hons) French with Russian and Spanish.
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core language modules for both. You can also select from a variety of option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
Having achieved good grades in the core language modules in Year 1, you decide to start a third language in Year 2.
For language 1 you will study core written and oral modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules. For the 2nd and 3rd languages you will study the core written and oral modules.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of the language either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
Your study will include final year core language modules for your three languages, plus you can select from a variety of option modules for two languages.
Pathway E - A main language and a secondary language
Start with the study of two languages, then in Year 2 take up modules in another discipline, e.g. Business Studies. Graduate with BA (Hons) in language 1 with language 2, e.g. BA (Hons) German with Russian.
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core language modules for both languages. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
You decide to expand the focus of your study by including modules from another discipline, such as the Business School, to enhance your employability.
For language 1 you study core language modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules. For language 2 you study core language modules. You also study a 1st year core module from your other discipline, e.g. Business Studies.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of language 1 or 2 either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
You will study final year core language modules for both languages, plus you can select from a variety of option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages. Additionally, you can study 2nd year core modules from your other discipline.
Pathway F and G - Start with two equal languages and specialise in the Final Year
Start with the study of two languages and decide to focus mainly on one after your international placement (work or study). Graduate with BA (Hons) in ‘language 1’ with ‘language 2’ e.g. BA (Hons) Russian with French.
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 2nd year core modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of language 1 or 2, either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4 - Choose either pathway F or G.
Pathway F
During your year abroad you become increasingly interested in one language but still want to continue with the study of language 2. For Language 1 you study core language modules, plus you can select option modules. And for language 2 you only study final year core written and oral modules.
Pathway G
During your year abroad you become increasingly interested in one language. You decide to drop the core language modules for language 2; however you want to maintain your interest in the modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the language. So, you study the final year core language modules of language 1, plus you can select from a variety of option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of both languages.
Pathway H and I - Start with two equal languages and specialise after the First Year
Start by studying two subjects, then decide after your first year to focus more on one language.
On Pathway H you graduate with BA (Hons) language 1 with language 2, e.g. BA (Hons) German with Russian.
On Pathway I you graduate with BA (Hons) language 1 with language 2 Studies, e.g. BA (Hons) German with Russian Studies.
Pathway H
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core language modules for both languages. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
After Year 1 you decide you want to concentrate more on language 1 but want to keep up the study of language 2.
For language 1 you study core 2nd year written and oral modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the language. And for language 2 you study core 2nd year written and oral modules.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of language 1 either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
For language 1 you study core final year written and oral modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the language. And for language 2 you study core final year written and oral modules.
or
Pathway I
Year 1
Your study will be divided 50/50 between two languages and will include 1st year core language modules for both. You can also select from a variety of modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the languages.
Year 2
After Year 1 you decide you want to concentrate more on language 1 and drop core modules for language 2.
For language 1 you study core written and oral modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules. And for language 2 you select from a variety of 2nd year option modules covering cultural, literary and linguistic aspects of the language.
Year 3 - International Placement
Your International Placement (work or study) will be spent in a country of language 1 either:
- on a work placement
- studying at a university
- a combination of the above
- in a school working as a British Council Language assistant (for French, German, Italian and Spanish only)
If you are studying a Beginners language from Year 1, you must spend your third year in the country of that language.
Year 4
Your focus is on language 1 only and you study core language modules, plus you can select from a variety of option modules.
Course variants
International Placement (work or study)
Study/Work Abroad in Year 3
A pivotal part of all Modern Language programmes is the International Placement, either studying at one of our prestigious partner universities, teaching on a British Council placement, or working in other employment. By immersing yourself in the culture you study, you will not only enhance your language skills, but cultivate:
- strong intercultural understanding
- improved communication skills
- the ability to think and study in different ways
- resilience and confidence
- analytical skills and the ability to make cross-cultural comparisons
- adaptability, independence and valuable life experience
During your International Placement, you will still be registered as an Exeter student and therefore supported in several ways. You will retain your personal tutor and be expected to keep in contact with them. You will also have the support of the Exeter Global Opportunities team for advice on any matter.
Our four-year “with International Placement” degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, either working or studying abroad.
You will need to confirm how you intend to spend your International Placement during the first semester of the second year. We will help you in the process. During your first year you will be invited to an introductory presentation about your International Placement options. In your second year, there is an extensive orientation programme to help you prepare for your International Placement.
Ways to spend the International Placement (work or study)
- You must spend 6-15 months abroad, maximising the opportunities available to you
- You can work, study, or split the year on two or more placements
- Students going to China or Russia can currently only study (work abroad is not available)
- If you study Portuguese, the only options available are study or work abroad (not a British Council assistantship)
Study Abroad
Studying abroad offers a range of possibilities, with over 40 different partner universities worldwide available to Modern Languages students. This can provide you with the opportunity to experience a different academic environment with local and other international students, broadening your knowledge of the language and culture you study.
Please note that Study Abroad placements at partner universities are subject to availability and are not guaranteed. The allocation of these places is competitive and based on first-year marks.
Work Abroad
Internships are very rewarding in that they can offer you valuable workplace experience. Placements can be sourced via our Employability and Placements webpages, but you can also source your own internship externally, though it must be approved by the Employability and Placements team.
Some of our students have spent their international placement working in translation, tourism, marketing, fashion, commerce, journalism, heritage and many other sectors.
British Council English Language Assistantship
Becoming an English Language Assistant with the British Council is a brilliant opportunity to explore both the world of working and, more specifically, the idea of working as a teacher. An academic year is spent supporting teachers in a primary or secondary school in the country of the language you are studying.
Please note that these assistantships are organised by the British Council and placements are subject to their criteria and availability.
Why Study Abroad?
Living and studying in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all key qualities that employers are looking for in today’s competitive employment environment.
Where can I Study Abroad?
We have partnership arrangements with many prestigious institutions across the globe. Exactly where you can apply to study will depend on the subject(s) you are studying at Exeter. For a full list please visit the Global Opportunities website.
What will I study whilst I am abroad?
Whilst overseas, you will complete predominantly Modern Languages-related modules that supplement the academic content of the modules offered at Exeter.
For your year abroad you will agree a suite of modules in your host institution with the departmental Study Abroad Coordinator.
Does it count towards my degree?
Yes - the International Placement is an assessed year and the marks obtained count towards your final degree classification. If you begin a language in your first year at Exeter and intend to take that language in your final year, you must do your International Placement in that language. If you are a beginner and decide not to do an International Placement, you will be moved to Single Honours Global Cultural Studies for the final year.
How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?
For your International Placement you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. You will also continue to receive any Student Finance support for which you are eligible.
How do I apply?
You may apply directly to the four-year BA Modern Languages with International Placement programme via UCAS – these students will be given priority of available study abroad placements. Alternatively, you may apply to the three-year BA Modern Languages programme and are able to request to apply to change onto the four-year programme once you are at Exeter, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.
Please note that study abroad placements at partner universities are subject to availability and are not guaranteed on either option. The allocation of study abroad places is competitive based on your first-year average grade along with your successful completion of Years 1 and 2.
What happens if I am unable to secure a study placement?
Once at Exeter, if students cannot go or are unwilling to go on their International Placement year, they can apply to move to either a three-year BA Modern Languages programme or a three-year BA Global Cultural Studies programme (dependent on their language level by the final year). This would need to be approved by the department.
Fees
Tuition fees for 2025 entry
UK students: £9,535 per year
International students: £24,700 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.
Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Learning and teaching
How will I learn?
Written language is taught through weekly classes, with teams of tutors, including native speakers who contribute to a programme aimed at grammar improvement and the development of advanced writing and translating skills. You’ll also have weekly oral practice in classes of eight to 10 students with native speakers of the language(s) that you are studying.
Modules
Teaching on our culture modules is varied: a class about linguistics takes a rather different form than a class about theatre or film, for instance. Most cultural modules involve a combination of lectures and seminars, backed up by smaller group work and web-based learning, via the University’s online learning environment. Between classes you prepare material, evidence and arguments, individually or in groups. Seminars are your chance to try out ideas, present material to other members of the group, and respond to new material based on the critical skills you’ve been taught.
Assessment
You will be assessed in a variety of ways but primarily through coursework and exams (essays, source commentaries, research exercises, oral presentations), and online assessment (for language and culture modules).
Your first year doesn’t count towards your final degree classification, but you do have to pass it in order to progress.
Where else can I study?
All language students have access to the language-learning facilities provided by the Language Centre.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in specified subjects, you may have the words 'with proficiency in’ added to your degree title when you graduate.
Your future
Employer-valued skills this course develops
Modern Languages graduates from the University of Exeter have an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and compete very successfully in the employment market. You will develop skills that are attractive to employers and relevant for a wide range of careers. Alongside written and verbal fluency in your chosen language(s), you’ll develop skills in:
- Managing and analysing information
- Articulating ideas and arguments
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Cultural awareness and adaptability
In an increasingly globalised world, language skills are highly sought after by employers, and can help you stand out from the crowd.
Employer visits
We have a dedicated, award-winning Careers Service, with offices at our Streatham Campus, ensuring you have access to careers advisors, mentors and the tools you need to succeed in finding employment in your chosen field on graduation.
We offer the Exeter Award and the Exeter Leaders Award which include employability-related workshops, skills events, volunteering and employment which will contribute to your career decision-making skills and success in the employment market. Our graduates compete very successfully in the employment market, with many employers targeting the University when recruiting new graduates. For further information please visit our Careers Service.
Career paths
Example destinations for our students include:
- Education
- Finance
- Government/Civil Service
- Media
- Law
- Translation
- Charities
- Hospitality
- Arts
- Retail
- Consultancy
Further study
A Modern Languages degree is also excellent preparation for postgraduate study, and recent graduates have progressed to a range of courses, including:
- MA Translation Studies
- MA Global Literatures and Cultures
- MA European Politics
- Graduate Diploma in Law
- PGCE Secondary French
- MA International Relations
- MSc Globalisation and Latin American Development
- Professional Language Skills
