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Languages and Communication Studies at UEA
Find out more about studying Languages and Communication Studies at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBA (Hons) Modern Language
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- T901
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Course Options
Other Start Dates
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5th
UEA is ranked 5th overall for research quality in Area Studies
Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis96%
Of final year Languages students at UEA were satisfied with the course
National Student Survey 2022Course Overview
Why BA Modern Language at UEA?
Study UEA Modern Languages to develop advanced language levels in French, Spanish and/or Japanese, translation, and intercultural skills. A transformative year abroad further builds confidence, adaptability, and global career readiness.
Why choose UEA?
- Speak beyond borders: Master French, Japanese and/or Spanish. Build powerful communication, translation and media skills for a global future
- Learn a language. Live a culture: Combine advanced language study with hands‑on cultural experiences, specialist modules and an immersive year abroad
- Discover Japan in Norwich: Study Japanese at the East of England’s only dedicated programme, backed by decades of partnership with Japan
What is BA in Modern Language?
The BA Modern Language degree at UEA develops advanced communication skills. We’ll enable you to study a language (French, Japanese, or Spanish) to an advanced level through expert teaching and contemporary materials. You’ll gain strong translation and intercultural communication skills. The course’s modules explore language, culture, digital media, and global communication.
Practical, real‑world abilities are strengthened in the state‑of‑the‑art language lab. You’ll work with cutting‑edge audiovisual translation and interpreting technologies. The course builds critical thinking and cultural literacy through engagement with diverse cultural events, activities, and specialist modules.
A compulsory year abroad develops independence, adaptability, and professional confidence. You’ll study, work, or teach in countries where your selected language is spoken. You’ll graduate with a versatile portfolio of linguistic, analytical, and practical communication skills, prepared for careers in language services, media, education, business, and beyond.
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Year Abroad
The year abroad is a compulsory element of our four-year language degrees.
In your third year, you'll enhance your studies by living in a country where your degree language is spoken. During this year, you’ll deepen your experience of the language and culture by either studying at a local university (all languages) or taking up a teaching assistantship or suitable work placement (French and Spanish only). Through this opportunity you'll enhance your language skills, while also developing your intercultural awareness, resourcefulness and flexibility. It’s also a great way to demonstrate your resilience, confidence, and ability to thrive in an international setting to future employers.
We have exchange links with many universities in France and Spain, as well as links with universities in Japan, Canada, and Latin America. If you’re studying Japanese, you'll attend one of our partner universities in Japan.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA Modern Language degree, you could launch a career in:
- Translation and language services roles: It can be translation, localisation, and interpreting. You’ll graduate with core requirements for translators and interpreters: linguistic precision, cultural competence, and the ability to convey meaning across languages
- Civil service and business: Businesses value multilingual graduates for international markets, branding, and customer engagement
- Marketing and social media: Language and culture training sharpens writing, editing, storytelling, and audience analysis
- Teaching: Modern Languages graduates are in very high demand in UK schools and globally. You gain language pedagogy exposure, communication skills, and cultural knowledge
- Tourism, cultural sector, and global mobility roles: Your language skills plus cultural awareness give you an edge in customer-facing global roles
Career Support
Throughout your degree you'll be supported by UEA’s Careers Central, with a wide range of resources to help you to shape your profile for success after university. Within the School of Media, Language and Communication Studies, we’ll also look to support your career development with an extensive programme of industry speakers, Alumni panels, mentoring, short courses on AI literacy and career confidence, and assessments designed to help you reflect on your own skills development. Our annual Industry Week in spring brings together the opportunity to immerse yourself in a range of events, working with leaders in industry, specialists in career guidance, and the opportunity to learn new skills to help you succeed in your journey after your degree.
After the Course
You’ll graduate prepared for a whole host of career sectors, both in the UK and abroad. These include tourism, hospitality and leisure, human resources, marketing, sales, business, international banking, media, the civil service, local government and administration, teaching and education, translation and interpretation, international trade and business, journalism, arts administration and customer services.
Alternatively, you could continue your studies with a Masters degree such as our MA in Applied Translation Studies or perhaps our MA in Digital Media and Global Communication. Our Careers Service runs an annual Arts and Humanities careers events programme. This includes alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including charities, politics and government, writing and communications, and museums and heritage. You’ll also benefit from our annual Careers Fair, where we showcase the range of opportunities available to you. This is a great chance to meet employers and to hear alumni speak about their career paths since graduating.
Study and Modules
Structure
In the first year, you’ll be introduced to key themes in the study of language, culture, and intercultural communication. You’ll develop core skills in your degree language of choice (French, Japanese or Spanish). You’ll also gain fundamental skills in the study of language and culture, getting an understanding of topics ranging from translation and intercultural communication to sociolinguistics and cultural theory.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In the second year, you’ll sharpen your language skills while delving deeper into learning about the cultures where your chosen language is spoken. You’ll also have the chance to develop your interests via optional modules, choosing from topics in culture, global communication, subtitling and dubbing, translation and media. You can also choose to start learning a new language.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year abroad on a study or work placement in a country where your chosen language is spoken. This will greatly enhance both your linguistic and cultural confidence, enabling you to think more like a native speaker.
So how does this work?
- You spend your third year abroad and return for the final year.
- If you’re taking French, you can study in one of our partner universities in France, Canada, Switzerland, or Reunion Island (subject to availability)
- If you’re taking Spanish, you can study in one of our partner universities in Spain, Mexico, Uruguay, or Chile (subject to availability)
- If you’re studying French and/or Spanish, you’ve the option to spend your semester or year working abroad instead of studying at a university
- If you choose to work abroad, you’re responsible for organising and securing your own work placement(s), which need academic approval. We can provide advice on employment opportunities based on the experiences of previous students and our close relationships with organisations in France, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, and Peru
- Japanese language students normally study in one of our partner universities in Japan
- You must remain abroad in approved activities for at least seven months in total. The approved period of residence abroad will normally coincide with UEA’s academic year and must begin no later than October
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
Alongside high-level language study, in your final year you’ll have the opportunity to pursue specialised topics, choosing from translation modules that will enable you to extend your control over sophisticated language, or other modules in interpreting, intercultural communication and digital media. You may also choose to investigate a subject of your own choice in more depth in a dissertation. In previous years, students have written dissertations on topics such as how bilingualism affects identity, the current situation of Spanish at GCSE, and on the character’s journey in ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service’.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Across the four years of the degree, you'll develop your language skills alongside intercultural competencies. In year one, you'll begin by building essential academic and language skills through interactive seminars, oral classes, workshops, and independent study.
In year two, you'll specialise through optional modules taught in smaller groups. It’ll strengthen your theoretical understanding and practical abilities in research, writing, groupwork, and presentation.
Year three immerses you in another culture during your year abroad. You'll develop independence, adaptability, and advanced language skills by managing your studies, work, and social life in an authentic environment.
In year four, you'll apply your accumulated knowledge through case studies, practical projects, and advanced written work, with opportunities to collaborate with local or international organisations. If you choose, you can also work on a substantial independent dissertation project.
Assessment
Throughout the degree, assessment evolves to support your development from foundational skills to advanced professional practice. In year one, you'll complete a mixture of language tests, group projects, and written and spoken coursework designed to ensure you gain the core linguistic and intercultural competencies needed for progression.
In year two, assessments diversify depending on your modules and may include written and oral exams, essays, reports, presentations, group projects, or even subtitling video clips to professional standards.
During your year abroad, you'll complete the compulsory year abroad module, which provides structured support and ensures your continued academic progress while overseas. You must pass this module and can be reassessed at UEA if you fail.
In your final year, you'll engage with a wide range of assessments aligned with your chosen modules. It might be advanced written and oral language work, translations based on real‑world briefs, interpreting tasks, or the creation of digital media content, with the option to complete an independent dissertation under expert supervision. These assessments prepare you for your chosen specialism and future career.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- Language Entry Levels
You can start this course from beginner's level, from post-GCSE level or equivalent, as well as from A-Level or equivalent - the course is tailored to meet your level.
- Native and Near-native Speakers
Native or near-native speakers can also apply for the French and/or Spanish degree programmes, but please note that the programme followed will be different from the one advertised. It is not possible to undertake a Japanese degree if you are a native or near-native speaker of Japanese.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Additional GCSE Requirements
We also require GCSE grade 5 or B in any Modern Language, or equivalent qualification.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
Contextual Offer: Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BA Modern Language with a Foundation Year(opens in a new window)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- Language Entry Levels
You can start this course from beginner's level, from post-GCSE level or equivalent, as well as from A-Level or equivalent - the course is tailored to meet your level.
- Native and Near-native Speakers
Native or near-native speakers can also apply for the French and/or Spanish degree programmes, but please note that the programme followed will be different from the one advertised. It is not possible to undertake a Japanese degree if you are a native or near-native speaker of Japanese.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Additional GCSE Requirements
We also require GCSE grade 5 or B in any Modern Language, or equivalent qualification.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started. (opens in a new window)
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: