Modern languages
Open the door to a rich and diverse exploration of global cultures, language and communication. Go beyond linguistic mastery, delve into the heart of societies, literature, history, and contemporary issues.
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Why study modern languages?
Equip yourself with the tools to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural communication and stand out from your peers in the ever competitive global business market. Whether you choose to specialise in French or Spanish, our courses will help you excel.
Develop critical thinking, adaptability, and a nuanced appreciation for diversity. Language learners not only become proficient speakers but also gain insights into the traditions, perspectives, and expressions that shape a community. This global perspective is invaluable in an increasingly interconnected world, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, international business, translation, education, and more.
Our 4-year courses offer a year abroad, where you can study at partner universities or work as a language assistant, showcasing your skills to future employers giving you invaluable insights into the language and customs of the languages you study.
Our courses from 2026
From October 2026, we will no longer be offering German degree courses. However, we are committed to maintaining meaningful language provision at a time when many UK universities are withdrawing languages entirely. Spanish and French will be continued to be offered at Essex
There will also be opportunities to learning Spanish, French and German through our Languages for All programme, which allows you to learn a language alongside your degree at Essex. This is delivered online via the Rosetta Stone platform.
On our BA Language Studies, you become proficient in one or more of the modern languages taught at Essex; French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese
Study up to three languages choosing between French, German, Italian and Spanish from beginner or post-A level standard, with BA Modern Languages at Essex
BA (Hons) Art History and Modern Languages
Our course allows you study the history and theory of art combined with French (post-A Level), German, Italian, Spanish or Portuguese (post-A Level or ab ...
BA (Hons) Art History with Modern Languages
Our course allows you study the history and theory of art combined with French (post-A Level), German, Italian, Spanish or Portuguese (post-A Level or ab ...
BA (Hons) European Studies with French
Please be aware that this course is temporarily suspended for the 2026-27 academic year. Switch on the news any day of the week, or pick up just about any ...
BA (Hons) Journalism and Language Studies
Sharing information around the world is powerful. BA Journalism and Language Studies allows you to expand your multimedia skills and learn a new language.
BA (Hons) European Studies with Italian
Please be aware that this course is temporarily suspended for the 2026-27 academic year. Switch on the news any day of the week, or pick up just about any ...
BA (Hons) Modern Languages and Linguistics
Study BA Modern Languages and Linguistics in a department ranked in the top 25 in the UK for linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
BA (Hons) Modern Languages and English Language
Unlike other English Language courses in the UK, our focus is not on the history of language, but on the contemporary use of English and how it is changing.
BA (Hons) European Studies with German
Please be aware that this course is temporarily suspended for the 2026-27 academic year. Switch on the news any day of the week, or pick up just about any ...
Get ahead of results day. Explore your Clearing options now and be ready to secure your place with us when the time comes.
- Access to a range of incredible facilities such as our Media Studio, Translations and Interpreting labs, and our Linguistics labs
- Many of our courses have dedicated careers and employability modules given you the chance to learn further invaluable skills to stand our in the job market
- You'll learn from experts in their field - we are 1st in UK for research impact in modern languages and linguistics (Research Excellence Framework 2021)
Career prospects
Teaching, journalism, copy writing, translating, interpreting, marketing and public relations; these are just a few of the diverse career paths that a degree from the Department of Language and Linguistics could lead to. Find out more about the range of different career options and the employability support you will gain when studying a Modern Languages degree with us.
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After completing an online course for teaching abroad (The TEFL Academy), and obtaining my BA at Essex, I started applying online for jobs in South-East Asia, especially China, South Korea, Vietnam and Thailand. I had a few Skype interviews, and once I made my choice (and completed all the paperwork) I started working in less than a month. I am now working as an English Teacher in Ca Mau City, Vietnam.
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