Linguistics and a Modern Language (BA)
- Subject areas: English language and literature, Modern languages and translation
- UCAS code: R755
- Next intake: September 2027
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Full time with year abroad
Why study this course
Explore your passion for languages and linguistics – developing your modern foreign language fluency while gaining a thorough grounding in the analysis of language.
A dynamic experience
Learn from native and near-native speakers, with blended learning and digital technologies embedded in teaching and learning activities.
Extra-curricular activities
A vibrant programme supports your language learning and immersion into the culture, including conversation classes with exchange students, language cafes and student language societies.
Skills for the future
A structured skills programme embeds academic, transferable and employability skills from the beginning.
The world is your classroom
Spend your third year studying or working in the countries of your chosen languages.
Employability focus
Choose an optional of credit-bearing work placement and gain professional experience.
Become a globally aware graduate who thinks critically, understands cultural diversity and has a wide range of transferable skills.
You’ll develop high-level communication and critical-thinking skills while building resilience and independence through immersive language experiences on our BA in Linguistics and a Modern Language.
You'll receive a rigorous grounding in the analysis of language, including key aspects of phonetics, morphology and syntax. You’ll also be able to explore topics such as forensic linguistics, first and second language acquisition, sociolinguistics and media discourse. This means you can shape your studies around your interests, use the latest approaches to study language critically, and connect your learning with debates in the public sphere.
Alongside this, you’ll study Chinese, French or Spanish - on a pathway that matches your experience. If you have an A level or similar competence in a modern language, you’ll take the Upper Elementary pathway. If you have limited or no knowledge of a modern language, you’ll take the Elementary pathway.
As you develop your fluency, you’ll explore the social, political, historical and cultural contexts of your chosen language through a global perspective. You’ll also build your reading, writing, speaking, listening and mediation skills through varied language resources and student-centred learning activities.
You’ll also spend time working or living abroad, experiencing life in the culture of the modern language you’re studying. This will help you develop flexible communication skills, confidence, resilience and independence.
Studying languages involves more than language itself. It brings together language, culture and society, with modules that emphasise diversity and celebrate cultural and linguistic mobility. You’ll also explore complementary issues and perspectives that connect your linguistics and modern language studies.
You’ll graduate with academic, linguistic and practical skills, including teamwork, leadership and communication and be well placed to progress into a range of careers.
Subject area: English language and literature
Subject area: Modern languages and translation
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as acceptable alternative international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
BBB-BCC. If you have grade B in a language at A-level you will have access to the languages Upper Elementary pathway.
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
31-29 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects. If you have grade 5 in a HL language you will have access to the languages Upper Elementary pathway.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 69 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
DDM-DMM in a BTEC Extended Diploma in Arts, Humanities, Science, and Social Science subjects. If you have grade B in a language at A-level in combination with or in addition to the BTEC you will have access to the languages Upper Elementary pathway.
If you have grade B in the relevant language A-level in addition to or in combination with a BTEC you will have access to the languages advanced pathways.
T level
M in a T Level in any subject.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Tuition fees for 2027 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Fees for overseas status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
Costs for sandwich years
During a sandwich year (e.g. year in industry, placement year or year abroad) a lower fee will apply. Full details can be found on our fees pages.
Additional costs
You should be prepared to invest in some key texts and to cover the costs of basic printing and photocopying for your own use. You may also want to buy copies of other texts, either because they are important for your modules or because you find them particularly interesting. Many students also choose to invest in personal copies of unabridged bilingual dictionaries and reference grammars.
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
This is a 4-year, full-time programme. It is structured to help you develop the language competencies and skills to become a resourceful, independent, plurilingual critical thinker, equipped for professional employment.
In each year of the programme, you’ll study 120 credits. Your third year will be spent studying or working in a country where your chosen language is spoken.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2027/2028 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2027.
Year one
Year 1 gives you the essential skills and knowledge that will form the foundation of your studies. You’ll take 60 credits of core English language and linguistics modules and 60 credits of modern foreign language modules.
You’ll study one modern foreign language at either Elementary or Upper Elementary level. If you’re on the Elementary pathway, you’ll build a thorough foundation in the grammar of the language. If you’re on the Upper Elementary pathway, you’ll continue to develop your linguistic skills.
Alongside your language tuition, you’ll study the cultural and historical context of your chosen language.
Your core English language modules introduce language description, phonetics, morphology, syntax and pragmatics. You’ll also choose another module from a list of options.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| How Language Works 1 | SE1113 | 20 credits |
| How Language Works 2 | SE1114 | 20 credits |
| Writing at University and Beyond | SE6266 | 20 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Upper Elementary | ML0170 | 30 credits |
| Spanish Elementary | ML0171 | 30 credits |
| Mandarin Chinese Upper Elementary | ML1160 | 30 credits |
| Mandarin Chinese Elementary | ML1161 | 30 credits |
| French Upper Elementary | ML6170 | 30 credits |
| French Elementary | ML6171 | 30 credits |
| Introduction to Hispanic Studies | ML0100 | 30 credits |
| Introduction to Chinese Studies | ML1100 | 30 credits |
| Introduction to French and Francophone Studies | ML6100 | 30 credits |
Year two
In year 2, you’ll study 2x30-credit modules in modern languages and 3x20-credit linguistics modules.
You’ll study your chosen language at Intermediate or Upper-intermediate level, helping you develop your linguistic ability, cultural awareness and confidence as you prepare for your year abroad.
Alongside your language study, you can explore the cultures, societies and histories linked to your language through a global perspective. Alternatively, you can develop linguistic and professional skills through business language or specialised translation study.
For your linguistics component, you’ll choose one core module from a set of options. This allows you to broaden your knowledge of linguistics and focus on phonetics, syntax and semantics, or language acquisition processes. You’ll also choose 2 options from a range of foundation modules that introduce key areas of study in linguistics. These modules prepare you to choose more specialised, research-led modules in your final year.
Year three: Sandwich year
Your third year will be spent in a country where your chosen modern language is spoken. This will help you develop your language skills, deepen your cultural understanding, and build independence, resourcefulness and resilience.
Studying or working abroad is excellent preparation for your final year. It can also help you build the self-confidence and maturity valued by employers. You’ll spend a full academic year in the country of the language you’re studying.
There are 3 options for your year abroad.
- You may be able to study at one of our established exchange partner institutions, depending on your chosen language and the opportunities available.
- You may be able to undertake a teaching placement through a British Council scheme. Teaching assistant placements can take you to a major city or a small rural town in a wide variety of countries. This option gives you first-hand teaching experience and allows you to earn a salary sufficient to live on, although the work is part time. Before your placement begins, the British Council provides a training weekend in the destination country. The school you are assigned to should also guide you in your role as a teacher and help you find somewhere to live.
- A work placement may also be available, depending on your chosen language. You’ll undertake a placement with an organisation or company where your modern language is spoken. Arrangements can be made through personal contacts, by approaching organisations directly, or through suitable opportunities advertised by your programme team.
To make sure your placement gives you plenty of opportunity to speak your chosen language and provides a beneficial experience, any work placement arrangements will need prior approval.
Whatever you choose, the year abroad is a valuable opportunity to improve your language skills, immerse yourself in another culture, and gain international study or work experience.
If you don’t have citizenship rights in the relevant country, you must acquire a visa to work or study abroad. We have no control or influence over visa application processes, but we’ll support and guide you as you prepare for visa applications and for your year abroad more broadly.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Languages Study Abroad Placement - Autumn | ML3242 | 60 credits |
| Modern Languages Study Abroad Placement - Spring | ML3243 | 60 credits |
| Modern Languages Work Abroad Placement - Autumn | ML3244 | 60 credits |
| Modern Languages Work Abroad Placement - Spring | ML3245 | 60 credits |
| Sandwich Year Project (Autumn Semester) | ML3140 | 60 credits |
| Sandwich Year Project (Spring Semester) | ML3141 | 60 credits |
Year four
When you return to Cardiff for your final year, you’ll develop your linguistic, critical thinking and research skills further.
You’ll study 60 credits of linguistics modules, alongside one 30-credit advanced language module and one 30-credit optional module in your chosen modern language.
In modern languages, you’ll be able to expand your skills and horizons through optional cultural and historical modules and a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. Final-year optional modules explore contemporary topics and themes linked to one language or considered through a comparative, transnational framework. Themes may include literature, film and visual culture, history, colonialism and gender studies.
You may also be able to take part in a teaching module, which includes a teaching placement at one of our partner schools in the local area.
You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation. Supported by an academic supervisor and a programme of workshops, you’ll design and carry out an independent research project on a topic linked to your studies. This will help you develop advanced research skills and in-depth knowledge of a subject that interests you.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Working with Linguistic Data | SE1425 | 20 credits |
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
We use a range of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, language classes and workshops. They help you develop critical thinking, close analysis, evidence evaluation, argument-building, teamwork, independent research and time management.
Lectures introduce key concepts and frameworks, helping you prepare for seminars, develop your own ideas and build the skills needed for independent research. Teaching materials may be delivered face to face or digitally, so you can study at your own pace.
Seminars are interactive small-group classes led by a member of the module teaching team. They may include group discussion, small-group work and student-led presentations, giving you space to explore and critically engage with ideas introduced in lectures.
Our modern language teaching focuses on active learning and meaningful participation. You’ll have regular opportunities to practise key language skills, build confidence and develop your linguistic proficiency in a friendly and supportive environment.
Class preparation and independent study are key parts of your learning. Between classes, you’ll prepare material, evidence and arguments, and complete tasks individually or in groups.
How will I be supported?
You’ll be supported throughout your studies by a personal tutor, who can advise you on academic issues and act as your first point of contact if you experience any difficulties.
You’ll meet with your personal tutor twice each academic year, and you can contact them at other times if you need support. Academic staff also have designated hours when they’re available to meet students.
During your year of study or work abroad, you’ll be assigned a Year Abroad Coordinator, who will keep in touch and monitor your progress.
Each module has its own dedicated space on Cardiff University’s Virtual Learning Environment. This is where you’ll find weekly activities and tasks, lecture recordings, language resources, assessment information and links to digital resources, including electronic library materials.
Professional services staff are available to answer questions and provide advice and guidance in a supportive, caring and confidential environment.
You'll also have access to a range of student services and support, co-located in the Centre for Student Life. This includes services relating to Advice and Money, Student Futures, Counselling, Health and Wellbeing, the Student Disability Service, Academic Study Skills and Student Mentoring.
You’ll also have access to libraries and resource centres.
How will I be assessed?
Our assessments are designed to help you develop your ideas, skills and confidence. They encourage you to think critically about the texts and cultures you study, be creative in how you respond, and present evidence-based arguments in English and in your modern language.
You’ll be assessed regularly on the building blocks of language, including grammatical and lexical patterns and structures, reflecting the progressive nature of language study.
Assessment methods include essays, exams, quizzes, oral exams, presentations, a dissertation, source criticisms, research projects, reviews, portfolios, blog posts and creative formats such as vlogs, podcasts, video and audio projects, interviews and posters. Some assessments will involve collaborative project work, while others ask you to write or create for different audiences.
You’ll receive individual and group feedback to help you reflect on your progress and improve future work. You’ll also complete practice exercises, such as quizzes, presentations and essay or project plans, with formative feedback before you complete your summative assessments.
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this programme describe what you’ll achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you’ll develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of your programme, you’ll be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
- Communicate in a modern foreign language to degree standard, understanding the structures, registers and varieties of the language you are learning and using them flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes, as appropriate.
- Critically assess aspects of the cultures, histories and societies of the countries in which your language is spoken by drawing on a range of materials and approaches and by applying an in-depth intercultural understanding.
- Demonstrate an in-depth, critical knowledge, awareness and understanding of the similarities and dissimilarities of cultures and societies other than your own.
- Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of core areas of English language and linguistics.
- Critically evaluate how language works in the social world.
Intellectual Skills:
- Communicate clearly, concisely and effectively to diverse audiences, in writing and speech, in English and in a modern foreign language.
- Examine different kinds of literary and cultural materials closely and critically.
- Develop, assess, and apply arguments in response to information and ideas, using speech and writing.
- Plan, write or deliver academic texts (essays, presentations, audio-visual texts) applying effective research techniques, using evidence and correct referencing conventions.
- Apply descriptive terminology relevant to English language and linguistic phenomena.
Professional Practical Skills:
- Communicate with enhanced linguistic skills in a professional setting.
- Communicate persuasively, conveying academic ideas and technical arguments to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, using written or oral techniques.
- Assess and solve problems independently, taking the views of others into account in a systematic and evaluative way.
- Develop resilience, adaptability and independence through time spent in immersive modern language contexts.
- Evaluate the impact of language use in a given context and synthesise and interpret various types of linguistic data.
Transferable/Key Skills:
- Explain information and ideas clearly and professionally, applying advanced knowledge and skills to unfamiliar or wider world challenges or contexts.
- Develop initiative by taking responsibility for structuring and time-managing a research task, working in teams when appropriate.
- Develop positive and effective working relations with others, especially through constructive and collaborative dialogue and feedback.
- Foster global citizenship, engaging with and valuing cultural difference through practical experience of other countries.
Careers
Career prospects
We’ll support you to build the skills, curiosity and confidence to explore your career options, whether you already have a clear plan or are still working out what comes next.
Our BA in Linguistics and a Modern Languages helps you develop a critical understanding of language and the skills employers value, including collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
You’ll build enterprise and employability skills throughout your studies. This includes pitching ideas, working collaboratively, and developing professional experience through credit-bearing placements and your year abroad. Optional modules offer further opportunities to build these skills.
Work experience and placements can strengthen your career prospects and help you make decisions about your future. Training and careers events are built into and offered alongside the curriculum, helping you develop your skills and explain them clearly in future applications.
We work closely with Student Futures, who deliver training and workshops on core modules and offer support with placements, internships and career planning. You can also take part in programmes that involve local schools, communities and heritage organisations, helping you develop your experience while making a difference.
Our graduates go on to a wide range of careers, including finance, international sport liaison, business consultancy, education, publishing, journalism, PR, content creation, HR, health, media, politics, diplomacy, interpreting, translation, law and teaching.
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
