

BA in English and Modern Languages, University of Exeter
Exeter,
.
36 Months
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About this course
The English and Modern Languages BA at Exeter offers students the opportunity to engage deeply with literary studies while developing language skills within cultural contexts. Students explore innovations in literature across historical and national settings, learning analytical techniques applicable to a range of projects. The course provides an option to spend the third year studying or working abroad, enhancing cultural and language proficiency. University facilities include Special Collections on renowned writers, The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, and a Digital Humanities Lab, which support immersive learning experiences. The course's emphasis on research and practical engagement makes it ideal for students passionate about literature and languages, especially given Exeter's UNESCO City of Literature status.
Why this course is highly recommended
Students appreciate Exeter's rich resources, including unique collections, the Cinema Museum, and a Digital Humanities Lab, which enhance their learning experience. The course’s strong focus on analytical skills, cultural understanding, and practical language use provides a well-rounded education highly valued in many careers. The international placement options also help students gain intercultural skills, resilience, and real-world experience. Exeter's reputation for high student satisfaction and excellent ranking in modern languages and English further make this programme an attractive choice for students looking to combine literature and language studies.
Specialisation
This programme allows students to focus on a variety of languages including French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Chinese, either from beginners or at an advanced level with prior qualifications. The curriculum is designed to build language proficiency alongside literary and cultural understanding, with modules covering both language skills and content-based topics like cultural history and film studies. The structure supports both Single Honours and combined honours pathways, with opportunities for study and work abroad.
Course fees
Application fees
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1st year tuition fees
26.07L
Living cost
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Living cost
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Degree requirements
In the first year, students undertake 30 credits in English and 30 credits in their chosen language, alongside optional modules. Year 2 focuses on intermediate language skills and further optional modules, with an emphasis on research and thematic courses. The final year includes advanced language modules, a dissertation, and optional content modules. For students on the four-year course with an international placement, a compulsory 120-credit year abroad is part of the programme, with options to study or work in a foreign country. The undergraduate courses are structured to ensure progression through compulsory and optional modules, culminating in a final degree.
English language test
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL
90
PTE
67
DUOLINGO
120
Career prospects
Graduates have gone on to diverse fields including education, arts management, publishing, journalism, marketing, and public policy. Many have worked for organizations like the European Parliament, Rolls Royce, Oxford University Press, and Oxfam. Some pursue postgraduate degrees, including MA in Cultural Heritage Management, MA English Literary Studies, PGCE English Primary, and MA Magazine Journalism. The skills developed—critical analysis, communication, intercultural understanding, and research—make graduates highly adaptable across multiple professional environments.
FAQs
Can I spend my third year abroad?
Yes, students have the opportunity to spend their third year studying or working abroad, which enhances language skills and intercultural understanding. This year abroad is assessed and counts towards the degree.
What languages can I study?
Languages available include French, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Chinese. Beginners or advanced learners can join, depending on the language and prior qualifications.
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