School of Modern Languages Undergraduate Degree Programmes www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages
1 Welcome
Close links with With over 800 top universities students and across Europe 60 academic staff, the School offers provide exciting a friendly, diverse options for a environment. Personal year abroad tutors ensure support immersed in a throughout your degree foreign culture. programme.
100% of our submitted research was benchmarked as internationally important, with 94% classed as ‘internationally excellent’ or ‘world-leading’.
Source: 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF)
2 Welcome
Contents Choose Cardiff 2
Why study languages? 4
Studying with us 6
Beginning your career 9
Our degree programmes • Chinese 11 • French 12 • German 13 • Italian 14 • Japanese 15 • Portuguese 16 Our of our • Spanish 17 Student 95% • Translation and Modern Language graduates were in Languages 18 Ambassador employment and/ Joint honours degree scheme offers the or further study programmes 19 opportunity to work six months after A capital city 20 in schools across graduating. A leading university 21 Living in Cardiff 22 South Wales. Source: DHLE 2016/17 Applications 23
How to find the School 25
The Spanish Embassy and Goethe Institute have satellite offices at our School. We are home to the Confucius Institute and enjoy close links with the Italian Cultural Delegation, Japan Foundation, Instituto Camões and Institut Ramon Lull.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 31 Choose Cardiff
Modern Languages have been taught at Cardiff University since it first opened its doors in 1883 and continues to grow from strength to strength.
42 Choose Cardiff
The world around us has changed dramatically since the 1880s, however, the need for graduates with strong language skills, excellent inter-cultural awareness and the ability to navigate different national contexts has become greater and greater.
We see in each and every one of our students the impact and transformative power of languages in personal, educational and career terms. Languages are crucial in the global challenges of the twenty-first century. In a world of global business transactions and digital connectivity, our graduates with their specialised language qualifications have the skillset and abilities to navigate today’s transnational world successfully. We pride ourselves on the supportive, welcoming environment that we offer you when you join our School. Our community of staff and students from around the globe are joined together by a shared love of different languages and cultures. Our programmes, like the world for which they were designed, do not stand still. In recent years we have extended our provision in Translation Studies and added Our students are key to everything we do, Chinese and Portuguese pathways to our and we watch with pride as they progress undergraduate offering. For postgraduate through the world of work, supporting them students we offer two MA programmes, and keeping in touch. This brochure includes Global Cultures and Translation. We continue feedback from them, students past and to develop our curriculum and programmes present, to show you what is possible with to enable you to prosper both in your chosen one of our degrees. career and as a global citizen. Many of our graduates are living exciting, With a global, transnational focus, our multilingual lives in countries around the programmes allow you to study languages world and their profiles underline the and cultures not only in particular countries, very many career opportunities a Modern but in a more global context. You can take Languages degree can provide you. all of the languages we offer as a beginner or as an advanced learner, and full details of each language we offer may be found in Professor Kate Griffiths this brochure alongside details of our popular Head of School Translation Studies programmes. The degree programme offers a three or a four-year degree depending on whether you choose to study or work abroad for a year.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 53 Why study languages?
We’re passionate about the power of languages and their impact in personal, educational and economic terms . . .
6 64 Why study languages?
. . . and that passion lies at the heart of everything we do. It drives our degree programmes.
There has never been a better time for you to According to Universities UK, students who study languages. According to Universities UK, study abroad are 19% more likely to achieve 49% of employers want greater language skills a first-class degree. And one of the highlights in the graduates they employ. Our degrees of our year is watching from the stage as our have been carefully designed to meet this students graduate, revelling in their success national need, equipping graduates with the and hard work. strong modern foreign language skills which Languages transform careers and open doors in a host of different career paths. educational paths, but they also transform We’re endlessly proud of our graduates and lives. The majority of our undergraduates what they go on to achieve. As the graduate work, study or teach abroad in their third career profiles in this brochure underline, year on degree programmes which take our languages open many more doors than you students around the globe. The value of the might think. Our graduates work in diplomacy, year abroad in CV terms is well-documented: IT, international sport, manufacturing, the it underlines the independence, strong armed services, accountancy, law, financial communication skills, problem-solving analysis, management consultancy and capacities and intrepidness developed international business. The list is endless! through our degrees. But the study of Our degrees are tailored not just to the needs languages transfigures lives as well as CVs. of the workplace but also to the individual Languages open the world to our graduates, students taking them. Each of the students enabling them to experience cultures from coming to us has different linguistic interests the inside as they immerse themselves in and career aims. Our programme of study new worlds, gaining lifelong skills, friends and has been designed to accommodate those memories all over the globe. We love to see different interests in the range and diversity where languages take our undergraduates. of our module options and pathways. Come and find out where they might We support our students to succeed both in take you . . . their time in Cardiff and their time abroad via a dedicated team of personal tutors and year abroad staff, forging links with them which last well beyond graduation.
AUTUMN 2016 7 www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 75 Studying with us
Be part of our community Focus on the ‘transnational’ and language of business. This prepares you for your year abroad, and for specialised We are one of the most dynamic language We revised our curriculum in 2018 and research-led study in the final year. What we schools in the UK and we pride ourselves on shifted the focus so that our programmes teach in the final year of our programmes has the close-knit community that we’ve cultivated would concentrate on the ‘transnational’. been co-produced with our students; ensuring between staff and students to ensure that Instead of thinking about languages as that you are at the heart of everything we do. both thrive. We have approximately 800 something specific to a country or region, students and 60 academic staff and all our transnational teaching looks at languages A modern languages degree at Cardiff teaching takes place at our central location and cultures and how they sit in the wider University has four broad aims of on Park Place, Cardiff. world. development: The high regard in which we are held is Our new curriculum has been cited as • Near native competency in the language(s) reflected in the relationships we’ve cultivated innovative best practice in the sector by the studied outside the University. Both the Spanish University Council of Modern Languages. • An in-depth understanding of the politics, economy, society, history and culture of Embassy and Goethe Institute have chosen It has been designed as a clear and coherent the countries whose languages are studied our School as a location for satellite offices learning arc that scaffolds you as you and we are also home to Cardiff Confucius progress. This ensures that you build skills • A global vision, allied to a high level Institute. and knowledge that allow you to progressively ability to mediate between cultures, and specialise as you move through your studies. to understand how different cultures intersect and interrelate Year one provides a broad base of studies • High quality transferable skills of which equips you for immersion into the independent problem solving, written and language and cultures you have chosen. oral communication and analytical skills From year two you will have real choice in that will make you highly attractive to following different specialisations, from prospective employers. cultural studies, to translation, to the world
86 Studying with us
Hone your skills and live your language Immersing yourself in a culture and Berlin, Milan and Barcelona, as well as assistants from the UK support the teaching interacting with native speakers is the best many other destinations across Europe. of English in 14 countries around the way to develop and improve your language Students studying Spanish also have the world. The British Council provides you with skills. In your third year, you’ll have the option to spend their year abroad further training in your destination country and this opportunity to do this when you spend a afield in Latin America in locations which opportunity provides excellent experience semester abroad either working, studying or have included Lima in Peru and Guadalajara and enables you to earn a salary while you taking part in the British Council’s English in Mexico. Students who have chosen to are away. Language Assistant Scheme in a country study Japanese have had the opportunity to The flexibility, independence and problem where your chosen language is spoken. study in universities in Tokyo, Kyoto, Beppu, solving skills that you develop during your We have developed partnerships with a Saitama, Hiroshima, Kobe, Kitakyasha and year abroad are often cited by employers as range of excellent universities which means Yokohama. a major reason for employing them after you can study in some of the most iconic Alternatively, you can take advantage of the graduation. and inspiring cities around the world. British Council’s English Language Assistant Students have previously travelled to Paris, Scheme. Every year, around 2,500 language
Gain real experience while University and the prison, improving the support of any applications you may make for you study experience and opportunities of both jobs or postgraduate courses. prisoners and undergraduates. Student Teaching module In addition to your personal tutor, you will be Modern Foreign Languages supported by our Student Cases and Support We provide you with the opportunity to gain Student Mentoring Scheme team, whose role is to provide advice on experience in teacher training via an optional procedures and regulations that affect your module in your final year. The Modern Foreign Languages Student Mentoring Scheme was launched in 2015. studies and sign-posting to the relevant teams The Student Teaching module allows you to go The scheme places undergraduates from in Student Support. If you have a disability, into local secondary schools and teach pupils Cardiff, Swansea, Bangor and Aberystwyth long-term health condition or specific learning who are learning foreign languages. You will Universities into local schools to mentor difficulty, the Student Cases and Support have the opportunity to observe teaching pupils and encourage them to consider team alongside our Academic Disability by professionals, take part in classroom modern foreign languages when choosing Officer will be able to support you throughout activities and generate new learning their GCSE options. your studies. materials. This in turn enhances your ICT, presentation, preparatory and organisational As a student mentor you will undertake skills and, ultimately, your employability. weekly mentoring and coaching sessions for your pupil mentees in small groups across the If you’re hoping to become a teacher after academic year. university this valuable experience can be used to feed into your PGCE application. We This scheme has achieved great success, offer a dedicated (optional) training session working with nearly half of all secondary for PGCE applications with an expert in the schools in Wales. Partner schools have field. reported on average a doubling in the number of pupils choosing languages at GCSE, as well Inside Out as improved motivation to continue studying We provide final year students with the and go to university. optional opportunity to work with prisoners in Cardiff Prison. Inside Out is an educational Talk to us exchange in which semester long modules You will be assigned a personal tutor for are delivered to mixed classes of imprisoned the duration of your degree, who will be a learners and undergraduates inside HMP member of academic staff at the School of Cardiff. This transformative form of Modern Languages. If you are studying a joint teaching works by breaking down boundaries. honours programme you will have a personal Both groups of learners are put in spaces tutor in each School. Personal tutors are there that neither would normally inhabit and to advise on academic and personal matters places them on an equal footing. in a confidential and informal manner. Your The scheme is mutually beneficial to the personal tutor will also supply references in
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 97 I work for Cardiff City Football Club as a Player Liaison Officer. I use my language skills every day which can involve anything from translating team-talks for our first team to planning trips for our scouts to go and find the next big players. The door was opened because of Cardiff University so it was instrumental in helping me along my career path.
Callum Davies, Welsh and French (BA)
108 Beginning your career Beginning your career
A language or translation degree from Cardiff University can lead to a multitude of exciting and varied career options.
Our graduates are now working in diverse • access to the online learning module, Your • an opportunity to complete an fields that include travel & tourism, finance, Career Journey, via the Student Intranet employability award (Cardiff Award) sales and marketing, publishing, engineering, • enterprise and entrepreneurial activities • work experience and placement technology, the civil service and sport. • links to the Global Opportunities Centre opportunities In the last graduate destinations survey,* (GOC) • specialist support from Go Wales over 95% of the School’s graduates were in (for eligible students). employment and/or further study within six months of graduation. When you join us, you can gain support from Don’t just take our the University’s Careers and Employability word for it . . . Service which includes: • one-to-one sessions by appointment After graduating, I secured a three- • workshops on topics such as CV writing month internship at an education and interview preparation company, which led to a full-time • access to careers fairs throughout the year executive position. After 15 months in • professional networking events and the role I applied for the job of National employer presentations Coordinator of the Modern Foreign Languages Student Mentoring Project. • mock interviews • information on internships and graduate There is no such day as a regular day training programmes in this job - which is why I love it! The project works in partnership with four • up-to-date careers information and links to Welsh universities and from meetings additional graduate careers resources with funders, to meetings with learning technologists, to attending conferences and liaising with schools and mentors, my days are full of variety and lots of interesting people. * Graduate destinations statistics are based on HESA Destination of Leavers Lucy Jenkins, from Higher Education , 2016/17. Italian and English Literature (BA)
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 119 I will always remember my time at Cardiff University with fond memories. It was a place where I grew as a person, found independence, and was able to pursue my aims in life. Since graduating I have worked as a Senior Associate in assurance for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) at their Cardiff office and have completed my chartered accountancy exams.
Ellie van Klaveren, History and French (BA)
1210 Our Courses degree programmes Our degree programmes
Chinese
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
I chose to study Chinese because I am fascinated by Chinese calligraphy. The fact that the language itself is a visual art form interested me so much that I wanted to learn more. It’s so interesting to learn how China’s culture and society is being impacted by the country’s rapid development. Chinese culture and language have such a long and enthralling history that learning them The BA in Modern Chinese is a dual degree offered never gets dull. jointly by Cardiff University and Beijing Normal The thing I have enjoyed learning the most is the Chinese characters. University (BNU). Although it is one of the hardest things to learn (there’s just so many of abroad at one of our partner institutions in them!), it feels so rewarding when I am China, before returning to Cardiff for your final Why study Chinese? able to recognise the characters and year of study. Mandarin Chinese is spoken by more understand more of the various than 1 billion people making it the most The four-year BA in Modern Chinese Chinese texts. programme is divided across Cardiff and widely used language in the world. Agnieszka Ziajor, Chinese (BA) Learning Chinese language and culture Beijing Normal University and is a unique and is increasingly considered an advantage exciting opportunity for students interested to securing key positions in the political, in China and its culture. You will spend years economic and artistic world. one and four in Cardiff and years two and three in Beijing. Before going to China, you will acquire a thorough grounding in Chinese Chinese study options UCAS code We offer two Chinese programmes at history and culture as well as linguistic skills. undergraduate level: our BA in Chinese and While in Beijing, you will take part in classroom Chinese (BA) RC13 our BA in Modern Chinese. studies and may gain some work experience. Modern Chinese (BA) RC12 The four-year BA in Chinese programme On returning to Cardiff, you will be required to enables you to spend years one and two in write a dissertation (in English) which will be Modern Languages and Cardiff, building an extensive understanding of an analytical work based on the two years of Translation (BA) 76D3 Mandarin Chinese as well as Chinese culture research in Beijing. and history. You will spend the third year
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 1311 French
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
Living independently in France helped to push me out of my comfort zone, and develop greater confidence when meeting new people. Charlotte Boland, Law and French (LLB)
French study options UCAS code Ancient History and French (BA) RV11 Archaeology and French (BA) RV14 Banking and Finance with a European Language (French) (BSc) N3R9 Business Economics with a European Language (French) (BSc) L1R9 Business Management with a European Language (French) (BSc) N290 Economics with a European Language (French) (BSc) L160 French language and culture have been centre- English Language and French (BA) QR31 stage in European and world affairs for centuries. French (BA) R100 businesses, two-thirds of which seek to French and Economics (BA) RL11 recruit staff with foreign language skills. Why study French? French and English Literature (BA) RQ13 In the new globalised world, French is On completion of a four-year course in French, more important than ever before and the you will have a high level of proficiency in French and German (BA) RR21 French, as well as a critical understanding ability to communicate in the language French and Italian (BA) RR31 is an invaluable skill. Not only are there of key aspects of modern and contemporary exciting career opportunities within Europe French and Francophone culture. You will also French and Japanese (BA) TR21 be aware of the ways in which France has for those with a degree in French, but the French and Music (BA) WR31 excellent communications and intercultural shaped, and been shaped by, other cultures, skills you will acquire are highly desired by nations, and communities. French and Philosophy (BA) VR51 multinational organisations worldwide. The third year of this course offers a fantastic French and Politics (BA) LR21 opportunity to live in a French-speaking environment. French and Portuguese (BA) P6P9 French is an official language of 29 You will either undertake a work placement countries, of all United Nations agencies, French and Spanish (BA) RR14 at a business, work as a paid teaching and of many other international History and French (BA) VR11 assistant in a school or attend a university. organisations. It is considered the Established exchange programmes provide international language of diplomacy, and is International Relations and exciting opportunities to study in French cities second only to English in its influence. Politics (with a Language) including Montpellier and Nantes while some (BScEcon) L292 French is spoken across the globe as a native of our students have spent their year abroad in or second language by up to half a billion Brussels, Geneva and Quebec. Law and French (LLB) RM11 people. The French speaking world extends Modern Languages and across the globe from Europe to North Translation (BA) 76D3 Africa, Asia and the Americas. French is also the foreign language most prized by British Welsh and French (BA) QR51
1412 Our degree programmes German
German is one of the key languages in international business, with nearly 100 million native speakers. German study options UCAS code Ancient History and German (BA) RV21 Why study German? Archaeology and German (BA) RV24 German language skills are highly desirable Banking and Finance with a European for employers in international business in Language (German) (BSc) N3R2 a wide range of fields including finance, Business Economics with a European marketing, translating, teaching, media, Language (German) (BSc) L1RX arts, publishing, and civil service. A recent survey by the UK’s leading employers’ Business Management with a European organisation CBI rated German as the Language (German) (BSc) N1R2 language most valued by UK managers Economics with a European (50%). In contrast, the British Council Language (German) (BSc) L1R2 recently reported an alarming shortage of people in the UK able to speak the ten Don’t just take our English Language and German (BA) QR32 most important foreign languages for the word for it . . . French and German (BA) RR21 country’s future prosperity and global standing. German gives those who speak it What interested me most about my German (BA) R200 fluently a competitive advantage in the job degree was the balance between German and Economics (BA) RL21 market. language modules and history and culture modules. All of these aspects German and English Literature (BA) RQ23 combined opened my eyes to the Language and culture are inseparable, and different cultural mindsets and ideas of German and Italian (BA) RR32 students will no doubt discover that there is European countries, which taught me to German and Japanese (BA) TR22 more to German speaking culture than most embrace new perspectives and ideas. think. German and Music (BA) WR32 I spent my third year abroad where I The unique heritages and histories of Germany, attended Universities in Chambery German and Politics (BA) LR22 Austria and Switzerland have played an and Heidelberg. These experiences German and Portuguese (BA) S89P important role in the development of the West. were crucial in not only improving Taught by native speakers, all of our German my language skills but also my German and Spanish (BA) RR24 courses provide comprehensive language organisational skills and ability to adapt History and German (BA) VR12 training combined with the opportunity to to new surroundings. I had to immerse explore the cultures, literatures and intellectual myself fully in the other cultures. Once International Relations and Politics histories of German-speaking countries. I completed the placements I found (with a Language) (BScEcon) L292 German at the School of Modern Languages that after facing all the challenges of Religious Studies and German (BA) VR62 was ranked #1 in Wales in The Times Good living abroad I was more than capable of University Guide 2020. We are also home to trying even more new things. Modern Languages and the Goethe Institute which has a satellite office Meriel Dhanowa, Translation (BA) 76D3 in our School. French and German (BA)
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 1513 Italian
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
I’ve particularly enjoyed the conversation classes (in both Spanish and Italian) where every week we are able to explore various contemporary topics which are affecting us worldwide. For example, in Italian we have recently discussed the implications of Brexit within the EU and what the benefits and drawbacks are. I have also really enjoyed the culture modules that are offered within the School. Conor Graney, Italian and Spanish (BA)
Italian study options UCAS code Ancient History and Italian (BA) RVJ1 Archaeology and Italian (BA) RV34 English Language and Italian (BA) QR33 Italy is the home of the design and fashion French and Italian (BA) RR31 industries as well as being one of the world leaders German and Italian (BA) RR32 in the arts, cinema, architecture and music. History and Italian (BA) RV31 Our courses in Italian offer you the chance International Relations and Politics Why study Italian? not only to learn the language to a high level (with a Language) (BScEcon) L292 of proficiency, but also explore the culture Italian (BA) R300 Italian opens up a host of opportunities to that has shaped the social landscape of this work in both the public and private sectors inspiring country. You will have the opportunity Italian and Economics (BA) RL31 in Europe. The unique communications and to investigate how Italy shaped Europe, and Italian and English Literature (BA) RQ33 intercultural skills that language graduates how Italy has intersected with other cultures, develop are in high demand by employers diasporas and nations. We apply innovative Italian and Japanese (BA) TR23 in the fields of teaching, fine arts, banking, methodologies in our teaching, including small Italian and Music (BA) WR33 the media, tourism and law to name a few. group activities and constant discussion, with Italy is a leading force in fields such as the support of native Italian teachers and Italian and Philosophy (BA) VR53 engineering and architecture. It is also the exchange students. home of the design and fashion industries. Italian and Politics (BA) LR23 Understanding Italian means that you can One of the most exciting elements of this Italian and Portuguese (BA) 6YR4 explore some of the major contributions to course is the opportunity to study or work in Italy during the third year. Many students European cultural life, including film and Italian and Spanish (BA) RR34 literature, in their native language. choose to study in some of Italy’s most inspiring cities, including Florence, Milan, Modern Languages and Trieste, Verona and Venice. Others prefer to Translation (BA) 76D3 With a rich history dating back to the Roman experience island life, working or studying in Religious Studies and Italian (BA) VR63 era, Italy has significantly influenced the Sardinia or Sicily. development of Europe. Welsh and Italian (BA) QR53
1614 Our degree programmes Japanese
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
I have found that the most valuable aspect of the School of Modern Languages is the small size of the language classes. This invaluable resource has allowed me to make the most of my contact hours and has likely played a large role in my level of language proficiency. During my year abroad, I travelled to Japan to study at Hiroshima University. Through this experience I was able to improve significantly my spoken Japanese as both the University and the A modern Asian language shaped by ancient local city government offered speaking classes to foreigners living in the area. customs and culture. On my return I attended a job fair in London and was offered a job in Osaka We are a leading British centre for Japanese for a Japanese company in their sales Studies. Japanese can be studied as part of Why study Japanese? department. a joint honours degree and can be combined A joint honours degree in Japanese offers with Business Studies, French, German, Stephen Barr, exciting prospects for anyone interested in Italian, Spanish, or Translation. German and Japanese (BA) Japan. With the huge amount of Japanese investment and interest in UK-based By the end of the course, you will be proficient manufacturing, finance and marketing, the in the Japanese language, as well as having an link with Japan continues to be a healthy excellent understanding of life and culture in one that is likely to foster many career Japan. You will also understand how Japan has Japanese study options UCAS code opportunities for those fluent in Japanese. shaped and been shaped by its relations with other cultures. Business Studies and Contemporary Japan is founded on a Japanese (BSc) NT12 rich and fascinating cultural history that You will have the opportunity to spend time stretches back thousands of years. It in Japan during your third year and immerse French and Japanese (BA) TR21 yourself in Japanese culture and language. remains a major economic power as well as German and Japanese (BA) TR22 an innovator in the fast-moving automotive During this year, you will develop a high level and electronic industries. of language skills in order to complete an International Relations and Politics advanced language course in your final year (with a Language) (BScEcon) L292 in Cardiff. Please note, due to Japanese visa restrictions, those who enrol onto a Japanese Italian and Japanese (BA) TR23 programme are unable to work in Japan during Modern Languages and their year abroad. As a consequence, you will Translation (BA) 76D3 spend time studying at a Japanese university instead. Spanish and Japanese (BA) TR24
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 1715 Portuguese
Don’t just take our word for it . . .
Portuguese is a really beautiful language and the countries it is spoken in are an interesting mix of Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Learning it as a beginner meant starting from scratch which makes it so much more rewarding when you start being able to remember words, form sentences, hold a conversation and finally compose an One of the world’s most widely-spoken languages, extended piece of writing. especially important for international business We’re a small class and this is extremely helpful because we have and politics. very personalised lessons, it is a very comfortable environment and the You will also learn about the vibrant cultures lessons always feel so laid back. and societies of the contemporary Portuguese- Why study Portuguese? Katherine Pickering, speaking world, from Europe to Latin Portuguese and Spanish (BA) Portuguese is one of the most important America, Africa and Asia. You will explore the languages for international business and intersections between different Portuguese politics, spoken by more than 260 million communities, and their relationships with other people worldwide. The official language languages and cultures. of nine countries in four continents, Portuguese Our innovative teaching methodologies and Portuguese is also increasingly used as a study options UCAS code community and second language in the supportive environment cater for diverse USA, Europe and Australasia. A degree learners and develop your skills so that you’ll French and Portuguese (BA) P6P9 be ready to take advantage of the wide range in Portuguese could take you across the German and Portuguese (BA) S89P world! of employment prospects that a degree in Portuguese can open up. The degree provides Italian and Portuguese (BA) 6YR4 As a major global language, Portuguese has the perfect opportunity to study Portuguese Modern Languages and been identified by the British Council as one along with French, German, Italian, Spanish Translation (BA) 76D3 of the most vital languages for the future of and Translation. the UK. Portuguese is in high demand, and Portuguese and Spanish (BA) G5Y5 proficiency in the language and in-depth The year abroad is an opportunity to enhance cultural understanding will make you stand and deepen your linguistic fluency and cultural out from the crowd. understanding, and to see, in real life, the cultures that you have studied. Many students choose to study or work in Portugal but others The BA Joint Honours in Portuguese offers have travelled further afield to placements in specially-developed courses for students at Brazil. advanced and beginner levels. Our programme is supported by Camões Regular contact with native speakers will Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua. support you in building fluency and awareness of different forms of Portuguese.
1816 Our degree programmes Spanish
A language with a global reach, shaped by a culturally diverse heritage. Spanish study options UCAS code Ancient History and Spanish (BA) RV4C During the third year, you will have a fantastic Why study Spanish? opportunity to improve your spoken and written Banking and Finance with a European language, immerse yourself in another culture Language (Spanish) (BSc) N3R4 Spanish is an important European or gain work experience in a Spanish-speaking language which also has a global reach. country. Many choose to study at one of our Business Economics with a European Latin American countries in particular are many partner universities in Spain or Latin Language (Spanish) (BSc) L1RY now integral players in international trade, America, or gain work experience as a teaching Business Management with a European meaning that the Spanish language is more assistant in a Spanish school. Language (Spanish) (BSc) N1R4 important than ever. Speaking Spanish We are also home to the Spanish Embassy allows you to explore the vibrant cultures Economics with a European Language which has a satellite office at our Spanish- and politics of the Hispanic world. (Spanish) (BSc) L1R4 speaking School. English Language and Spanish (BA) QR3K There is high demand for Spanish graduates French and Spanish (BA) RR14 from multinational employers who value the Don’t just take our language, communications and intercultural word for it . . . German and Spanish (BA) RR24 skills that are developed through language History and Spanish (BA) RV41 degrees. A Spanish course can open up a range of exciting career opportunities Cardiff and my placement in Valencia, International Relations and Politics in fields such as international politics or Spain were where I developed a love (with a Language) (BSc Econ) L292 business, consultancy, sales and marketing, for languages. I now teach English Italian and Spanish (BA) RR34 finance, teaching, and translating/ in a language academy just outside Barcelona, and I teach a variety of interpreting. Modern Languages and classes, from 12-year-olds to teenagers With approximately 400 million native Translation (BA) 76D3 to university students to adults. speakers in more than twenty countries where Politics and Spanish (BA) LR24 Spanish is an official language, Español is Having graduated as a fluent Spanish one of the three international languages in speaker with an intermediate level of Portuguese and Spanish (BA) G5Y5 Catalan, the transition from Wales to the world. Today Spanish is spoken in many Religious Studies and Spanish (BA) RV46 parts of Europe, South America, Africa, and Catalonia was seamless, and thanks increasingly in the USA. to the opportunities I had at Cardiff Spanish (BA) R400 I’m able to connect with the people I By the end of your course, you will have a near- work and live with on a far deeper level. Spanish and Economics (BA) LR14 fluent command of the Spanish language as Most importantly though, I can cheer well as an in-depth understanding of Hispanic Spanish and English Literature (BA) QR34 on/bemoan the decisions against my culture and society, in Europe and across the local football team in four different Spanish and Japanese (BA) TR24 Hispanic world. You will explore the cultural languages! intersections between different Spanish- Spanish and Philosophy (BA) RV45 Eirian James, speaking cultures, and their interactions with Welsh and Spanish (BA) QR54 other cultures and languages. French and Spanish (BA)
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 1917 Translation and Modern Languages
Study Translation with a modern language and learn professional translation skills. There is an increasing demand for Why study Translation? translation skills in the UK and worldwide. We offer specialist translation programmes As well as receiving practical and that provide you with theoretical, vocational in-depth language tuition, you will be given and practical translation skills, alongside the translation specific skills not available on opportunity to gain an excellent command traditional language courses. These skills of either one or two modern languages and will allow you to carve out a particular cultures. Don’t just take our career path and act as an excellent word for it . . . foundation for a foothold in the translation Our translation curriculum (in line with the industry. Specialist modules introduce Institute of Linguists and the Institute for I find translation such a fascinating, the different institutional contexts you Translators and Interpreters standards) intricate subject. Translation looks at may encounter in your future careers will focus on combining the theory behind foreign languages from a completely (government, media, multinational translation with methodology and practical different perspective and I wanted to business) and alert you to some of the real skills. see how it would affect my language challenges of the translation profession These unique courses offer: skills. I study Translation with French such as time-management, managing • A good foundation in one or two languages but I’ve learnt lots of things about other resources, establishing and maintaining and cultures (French, German, Spanish, languages too, such as etymology of networks. Italian, Portuguese, Chinese and Japanese) Latin languages and untranslatable • A translation curriculum in line with words. The lecturers are very helpful and standards set by professional bodies bring so much knowledge and energy to • Generic and specialised translation skills the lectures. in areas such as legal, commercial and After university I would really love to Study options UCAS Code scientific translation work either in counter terrorism or Modern Languages and • Two ways to study. You can choose to study medical translation. Whatever I end up Translation (BA) 76D3 for three years or study for four years and doing, I want to use my translation skills to help people. Translation (BA) Q910 spend a year abroad. Anais Banneville, Modern Languages and Translation (BA)
2018 Joint honours degreeJoint honours programmes Joint honours degree programmes
We offer a variety of programmes which allow you to study two languages side by side. However, if you’d like to study languages but We work with several Schools across the To help you see what joint honours are also interested in subjects which are University to provide a suite of exciting and programmes we offer, we’ve included a list taught outside our School, a joint honours complementary joint honours options which: on every language page. programme could be exactly what you are • allow you to concentrate on more than one Subjects are listed with their UCAS codes looking for. subject area, so that you can find out more detailed By studying two subjects in different • give you access to a wider range of information on the University’s website: environments you automatically gain a modules, www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/ different perspective. You’ll experience varied • encourage effective time-management, courses teaching and assessment styles and will learn flexibility; a quality increasingly required within • provide you with a host of transferable the job market. skills.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 2119 A capital city
Cardiff is a compact city with an enormous to please every palate, you can enjoy fine true wonder, while the iconic Wales Millennium character. Nestled between the rugged dining, plant-based treats and exotic cuisines Centre in the idyllic setting of Cardiff Bay is coastline and breathtaking mountainous from almost every corner of the globe, without simply not to be missed. scenery of Wales, the country’s capital is forgetting Welsh Cakes for dessert! Bustling with personality, Cardiff is a city made a cornucopia of culture, marrying historical Wales is the land of song, and Cardiff certainly for students, offering an endless string of delights with cosmopolitan amenities. contributes heftily to this legacy. This city is entertainment opportunities while remaining Providing an endless array of activities, one built with music running through its veins, from inexpensive and easy to navigate. stroll through its cobbled streets can see the oldest record store in the world Spillers The modern shopping centres, aesthetic you learn about the rich tapestry of Cardiff’s Records, which is tucked away in Morgan arcades, luscious green parks and thriving past at Cardiff Castle before soaking in the Arcade, to more contemporary and intimate nightlife are a huge draw for living in Cardiff, atmosphere as the crowds spill from the venues which host some of the world’s most though you’ll always find your way back to our Principality Stadium after one of the many exciting new musical talent. Students’ Union, which is the true home of the sporting events it holds year round. Though your Cardiff bucket list may be bursting student scene in the city. The vibrant and independent culinary scene at the seams, be sure to make a little room is the heartbeat of the city. With something for our National Museum which is a place of
“The official capital of Wales only since 1955, the buoyant city of Cardiff (Caerdydd) has, since the turn of the millennium, witnessed a remarkable evolution from a large town to a truly international city, with massive developments in the centre as well as on the rejuvenated waterfront. With a reputation as a party town, allied to lots of top-class sport and cultural attractions, it is one of the UK’s most enticing destinations.” Rough Guide 2020
2220 A capital city A capital A leading university Part of the
“Cardiff University is highly rated on a local and global scale.” The Telegraph, 2018
Our students learn from leading researchers in Supporting you Our student support and wellbeing centres over 300 courses across the University. As Wales’ deliver a substantial range of services only Russell Group institution, we have gained an available to all students that are free, impartial, non-judgemental and confidential, international reputation for excellence in teaching aimed to help you make the most of student and research, which is built from our history of life and support you during your study. We are also rated as one of the best achievement since 1883. universities for supporting LGBT+ students and are proud to be ranked highly in the Cardiff University becomes home for computing facilities to name a few, with more Stonewall Workplace Equality Index. approximately 5,500 new undergraduate exciting developments continuously underway. students every year. While competition for We take our environmental, safety and places is strong, we pride ourselves on being security responsibilities seriously, embracing an inclusive university, welcoming applications our comprehensive Energy, Water and Waste from everyone who wishes to study with us. Policy, which is already making great savings in We are a global university with over 7,900 energy consumption and helping us to do our international students from more than bit to tackle climate change. 100 countries and open our doors to all Virtual campus tour applications, irrespective of background. Global Opportunities We are partnered with over 300 leading Discover more about the University Facilities and development institutions across the world, and our Global and the city of Cardiff through our Committed to investing in our services, Cardiff Opportunities team will help you to gain interactive online tour at: University is home to new and well-equipped valuable international experience, through laboratories, lecture theatres, libraries and study, work or volunteering. virtualtour.cardiff.ac.uk
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 2321 Living in Cardiff
“Cardiff has one of the biggest, best and most active students’ unions in the UK, with high quality facilities including Y Plas, a 2,150 capacity nightclub; and the Great Hall, a major concert venue.” Complete University Guide, 2019
Cardiff is the perfect place to be a student. It mirrors the hive of activity a big city offers, but in an intimate and compact setting with endless character. Drink in the atmosphere, soak up the culture and get stuck into the host of activities available in our city; your new home.
A guarantee of accommodation They also help foster a strong sense of If you accept your offer of a place at Cardiff community through social events and cultural Find out more . . . on a firm basis, you are guaranteed a single activities, as well as practical support too. Accommodation occupancy place in University accommodation Students’ Union during your first year, living with other first year For further information please visit our Our Students’ Union is at the heart of the undergraduate students. website: www.cardiff.ac.uk/residences Cardiff student experience. It’s a student- You can also watch our residences The residential dates for your particular led and independent part of the University, film online at: www.youtube.com/ accommodation will be confirmed in your Offer dedicated to making your time with us the best watch?v=hxzX-dYLfB8 of Residence. it can be. Residence Life Built on the foundation of inclusion, diversity, Students’ Union personal development and friendship, the While staying in Cardiff student facebook.com/cardiffstudents accommodation, you will have access to the Students’ Union runs a range of activities incredible service provided by the Residence and services to help enhance your Cardiff snapchat.com/add/cardiffstudents Life Team who work tirelessly to enhance your University experience. instagram.com/cardiffstudents These include advice, training, skills student experience. @cardiffstudents Working in partnership with Student Support development, entertainment, volunteering www.youtube.com/cardiffstudents and Wellbeing, the Residences Office and the opportunities and employment throughout your Students’ Union, Residence Life will welcome time at Cardiff and to prepare you for a career you to Cardiff and help you to make a smooth after University too. transition into University.
2422 Living in Cardiff Applications
To be considered for entry onto any of the WBA: The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Equality and diversity undergraduate courses offered in the School Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in We are committed to supporting, developing of Modern Languages you should apply lieu of one A-level (at the grades listed above), and promoting equality and diversity in all our through UCAS: excluding any specified subjects. practices and activities. UCAS, Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham, IB: Please see our website for details. We aim to establish an inclusive culture free Glos, GL52 3LZ, UK BTEC: Single honours: DDM - DMM in Social from discrimination and based upon the values www.ucas.com Science, Humanities, Arts and Science of dignity, courtesy and respect. We recognise subjects. Joint honours: see website. the right of every person to be treated in Entry requirements Other: Applications from those offering accordance with these values. These typical requirements are for guidance. alternative equivalent/overseas qualifications We are committed to advancing equality Please check our website for latest are welcome, as are those who may have other on the grounds of age, disability, gender information. relevant work/life experience. reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, Please note that for all of our programmes bar All degrees: pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and BA Modern Chinese and LLB Law and French, GCSE requirements (or equivalent): belief (including lack of belief), sex and sexual we have both advanced and beginner entry orientation and to fostering good relations GCSE English language is required at grade C points. between different groups. or grade 4. A-level: For further information, please visit: Specific subjects: BA single honours (which includes www.cardiff.ac.uk/public-information/ For combinations with the Business School, programmes where you study two languages): equality-and-diversity GCSE Maths at Grade B/Grade 6 is also ABB-BBB required. Joint honours programmes: Please refer to our web pages for specific programmes.
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 2523 Applications continued
Open Days Student support Tuition fees and financial The University runs Open Days throughout Whether or not you use student support assistance the year giving anyone considering applying to services it’s reassuring to know that they are The University charges an annual fee which Cardiff the chance to find out more about life available to you should you need them. Every covers all tuition fees, registration and at university and see what we offer. student is assigned a personal tutor but should examinations other than the re-taking of If you apply and are offered a place, you you need extra support we have a range of examinations by applicants not currently will be invited to meet us at our specially- services available to you. Such as; registered. Please note charges for devised School Open Days. When making that • Disability and Dyslexia support accommodation in University Residences important decision, we strongly encourage - Email: [email protected] are additional. you to join us. Not only will you have the Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 4844 Tuition fees opportunity to hear more about our degrees, - Email: [email protected] Please see the following website for more you will also meet staff, have the chance to Tel: +44(0) 29 2087 4844 information: www.cardiff.ac.uk/fees talk to current students and to get the feel for • Counselling and Wellbeing Guidance our cosmopolitan capital city. Scholarships and bursaries Email: wellbeingandcounselling@cardiff. For more information please visit the following ac.uk website: www.cardiff.ac.uk/scholarships Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 4966 • International Student Support Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)29 2087 6009 • Student Mentor Scheme www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/student-life/ student-support
2624 Important Legal Information The contents of this brochure relate to the Entry 2021 admissions cycle and are correct at the time of going to press in March 2020. However, there is a lengthy period of time between printing this brochure and applications being made to, and processed by us, so please check our website at: www.cardiff.ac.uk before making an application in case there are any changes to the course you are interested in or to other facilities and services described here. Where there is a difference between the contents of this brochure and our website, the contents of the website take precedence and represent the basis on which we intend to deliver our services to you. Your degree: Students admitted to Cardiff University study for a Cardiff University degree.
This brochure is printed on paper obtained from well managed sources using vegetable-based inks. Both the paper used in the production of this prospectus and the manufacturing process are FSC® certified. The printers are also accredited to ISO14001, the internationally recognised environmental standard. When you have finished with this brochure it can be recycled, but please consider passing on to a friend or leaving it in your careers library for others to use. Thank you.
Cardiff University is a registered charity, no. 1136855
How to find the School Key This prospectus can be made The School of Modern Languages is available in alternative formats, School of Modern Languages located in the heart of Cathays Park including large print (text), Braille Campus, just a short walk from the University and NHS buildings and on audio tape/CD. city centre. The buildings are very Student residences To request an alternative format close to Cathays Railway Station, please contact Laura Roberts: and are easily accessible from the Tel: 029 2087 4455 University Halls of Residence. Email: [email protected]
www.cardiff.ac.uk/modern-languages 2725 To find out more about the School of Modern Languages please visit our website: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ modern-languages
Contact us Tel: 029 2087 0824 Email: languages-ug-admissions@ cardiff.ac.uk School of Modern Languages Cardiff University 66a Park Place Cardiff CF10 3AS Stay in touch cardiffmlang @ cardiffmlang
Student life Got questions about student life? Get them answered at: www.cardiff.ac.uk/ studentbloggers Want to know more about life at Cardiff University? Our student bloggers are recording their experiences and are happy to answer your questions. Our student bloggers are real students studying on a range of courses. They are here to answer any questions you have about life at Cardiff University. What’s a typical day like? What clubs and societies are there? Is Cardiff’s music scene any good? It can be almost anything.
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