BA Comparative Literatures and Cultures and Modern Languages

Course duration

Did you know that there are both 3-year and 4-year degree programmes in Modern Languages at Exeter?

There are significant benefits of choosing the 4-year with International Placement programme, particularly in enhancing your language proficiency.

Both the 4-year and 3-year programmes offer a comprehensive and in-depth study of modern languages and cultures. However, the 4-year degree includes a valuable international placement year, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the language and culture of your chosen country while either studying or working.

We know that graduates who have studied the 4-year course with a year abroad have benefitted from a range of key skills that have been vital in shaping their early careers:

• Enhanced language proficiency – Evidence shows that speaking your chosen language in the country where it is the main language helps improve proficiency significantly.
• Cultural immersion – Spending time on an international placement will give you a deeper understanding of the nation’s cultures and broaden your appreciation of individuals from different backgrounds.
• Personal and professional development – You will have the opportunity to independently build intercultural communication skills and experience a range of professional sectors. These are key skills highly valued by today’s employers.
• Competitive edge – Our graduates have gone on to work for organisations across the globe, and they tell us that gaining skills and experiences while on the international placement is the most important factor when applying for jobs after graduating.

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Entry requirements (typical offer)

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

Choosing a language

You may choose one language to study alongside Latin. Find out more about the languages we offer below. 

Check subject requirements for different language levels

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.

Completing your UCAS form

When completing your UCAS form you must indicate the language you want to study with us under ‘further details’ in the ‘choices’ section of the application form, using the below abbreviations.

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Course content

Each year, you will study 30 credits of a compulsory language module, 30 credits of optional modules developing your knowledge and understanding of the country/countries where your chosen language is spoken, and 60 credits of Comparative Literatures and Cultures modules. 

The Modern Languages side of the programme offers the choice of one of seven major languages (Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish), taught by experienced language specialists including native speakers and academic staff at the cutting edge of research in their particular discipline.

Progression through the programme will combine the acquisition of language with the study of the literature, culture, film, history and/or linguistics of the language disciplines as well as advanced translation practice. You will develop a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, understanding and speaking your selected language.

Comparative Literatures and Cultures at Exeter is unique for its breadth, introducing you to literature, film and art from around the world, from the ancient to the contemporary. You will be taught by world-leading scholars with expertise in literature and culture from the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. You will develop the key intercultural understanding and communication skills necessary to be a global citizen.

This programme will prepare you for a range of careers around the world. It includes a compulsory element of either an employability module (e.g. Humanities in the Workplace) or a module preparing you for MA study. You also have the option to spend your third year studying or working abroad in a country where you can develop your chosen language.

Students studying beginners languages must take the 4-year “with International Placement” course.

You may notice changes to some of our modules over the coming months. This is because we are making space for the following:

• Minors: Future Skills Pathways - Alongside your main degree you may be eligible (depending on your course) to choose modules from another subject to broaden your skills and interests.
• Skills to Thrive built into every degree - Essential skills for your future, including communication, problem-solving, teamwork and digital confidence.
• Increased innovation and wellbeing - More room for creative learning, real-world projects and a healthier study rhythm.

The modules below 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.

Fees

Tuition fees for 2026 entry

UK students: £9,790 per year
International students: £24,950 per year

Find out more about tuition fees and scholarships

Learning and teaching

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Your future

This programme will equip you with a comprehensive understanding and skillset for a range of careers across a multitude of industries. In particular: intercultural understanding and communication skills, which are at the heart of this programme, are increasingly required by employers in a globalized world.

The course includes a compulsory element of either an employability module (e.g. Humanities in the Workplace; Making a Career in Publishing) or a module preparing students for further study. Digital literacy and translation literacy are embedded throughout the course.

Career paths

Example destinations for our students include:

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