BA (Hons) in English Language and Spanish Studies, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This four-year degree combines studies in English Language and Spanish Studies, offered jointly by Lancaster University's Department of Linguistics and English Language and its School of Global Affairs. Recognized as one of the top departments, it ranks 3rd for Linguistics in the QS World Rankings, 2024. The course offers a stimulating mix of academic learning and practical experience, including a year abroad. Spanish is accessible even to beginners thanks to an intensive course, aiming to help students achieve fluency and understand the cultural, historical, and social aspects of Spain and Latin America. Core modules include topics like English phonetics, Spanish language skills, and cultural studies. An optional year abroad, work placement, or work with the British Council forms a vital part of the program. Students develop high-level language skills, intercultural sensitivity, and a range of transferable skills sought by employers. The program’s structure allows in-depth exploration through optional modules, dissertation projects, and practical experiences.

Why this course is highly recommended

The course stands out due to its strong reputation, ranking 3rd for Iberian Languages, Linguistics, and French in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide (2025). It offers a carefully designed blend of academic theory, practical experience, and cultural immersion, including a mandatory year abroad that enhances language mastery and intercultural skills. The department's international standing and excellent facilities support students in achieving fluency in Spanish and deepening their understanding of English linguistics. The program’s flexibility, variety of optional modules, and opportunities for internships or working with international organizations like the British Council make it ideal for students aiming for global careers in areas such as translation, media, education, or diplomacy.

Specialisation

This course uniquely blends studies in English Language and Spanish Studies, providing comprehensive knowledge of both languages, their cultures, and societies. The curriculum spans core linguistic modules like phonetics, grammar, and language change, with options to focus on areas such as discourse analysis, stylistics, translation, and media language. Students can also specialise in cultural and historical topics, or explore the relationship between language and social identity, cognition, or politics. The year abroad and work placements deepen intercultural understanding and language proficiency, tailored to students' interests and career goals. The program can be combined with other subject areas like Philosophy, Politics, or Management for a more interdisciplinary experience.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need AAB at A level, including Spanish or an equivalent qualification such as AS grade B or GCSE grade 7/A in a foreign language if studying from beginners. Other accepted qualifications include the International Baccalaureate with 35 points overall, Scottish Highers, BTEC Extended Diploma with DDD, and relevant foundation programs. The course requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. There are no specific GCSE requirements, but overall GCSE results are considered during the application process.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills highly valued by employers, including data analysis, evidence evaluation, and presentation. Potential career paths include journalism, media, publishing, speech and language therapy, translation, teaching English abroad, speech technology, public relations, and management. Many students continue postgraduate studies or professional training in language or linguistics fields. The program’s emphasis on intercultural communication, language proficiency, and professional opportunities like internships and placements prepare students for roles in international organizations, cultural institutions, and sectors requiring bilingual or multilingual expertise.

FAQs

Can I study Spanish from beginners?

Yes, the course offers an intensive beginner course for students with no prior Spanish knowledge, aiming to help you become proficient in spoken and written Spanish.

Is a year abroad mandatory?

Yes, the international placement year is compulsory for students studying Spanish and some other languages, providing valuable real-world language practice and intercultural experience.