Department of Language and Linguistics

Undergraduate study

group of people talking,

Curious about language and the world?

Languages give you access to other countries, people, cultures and conversations. Linguistics teaches you how language is learnt, and used everyday - in the media, work place and with our family and friends.

So, when you study language and linguistics, you open the door to a whole new world.

At Essex, you can tailor your course to your unique interests by choosing from our large range of modules, and by studying up to three languages (no prior knowledge needed).

You also use our great facilities, including state-of-the-art research labs, and you're taught by native or bilingual experts in modern languages and all major branches of linguistics.

If you're ambitious and curious about language and its relationship to the world, welcome to Essex.


Explore our courses
Why choose us?
  • Great facilities, including interpreting lab with equipment matching that of the UN
  • Ranked 12th for Linguistics (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023)
  • Ranked 11th in the UK for Linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2023)
"I feel like studying languages has opened my mind to different cultures. It allows me to travel and build valuable relationships with people from around the world."
Serena Ba Modern languages

The world in one place

Our students come from all over the world to study at Essex. Over 100 different languages are spoken on Campus.

We're at the heart of a University-wide culture of language learning - we give all students the chance to learn languages, so you'll always find someone to practice your language with.

We also regularly hold seminars and workshops delivered by translation and interpreting professionals from all over the world.

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Discover our podcast series

Why are accents in the British Isles so diverse? Can language shape the way we see and interpret the world round us? What is an idiom? How does the LGBT+ movement relate to our use of pronouns? Join researchers and students from the Department of Language and Linguistics as we discuss a fascinating array of topics.

Listen to the podcast
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Gain quantitative skills and enhance your degree with Q-Step

Did you know you could be graduating with enhanced quantitative skills simply by enrolling on specific Q-Step modules? If you follow the Q-Step pathway you will receive a qualifier award at the end of your degree which will signal to employers your capability in quantitative research. Whilst taking part in Q-Step you will also get the chance to undertake paid work placements of up to £300 per week.

Learn how to enhance your degree with Q-Step
Get in touch
Department of Language and Linguistics Undergraduate Enquiries  University of Essex
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ
Department of Language and Linguistics Postgraduate Enquiries  University of Essex
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ