Learning a foreign language
Life outside study
Being able to confidently speak with people who speak another language is also useful when you work, study or take a holiday abroad.
When you study with us on campus, you can learn a language for free alongside your course with our Institution-Wide Language Programme (IWLP). You have the flexibility to choose to study a language for personal interest as well as for credits towards your degree when studying a full-time Bachelor's degree.
Languages you can study
You can choose from 8 languages:
- Arabic
- British Sign Language
- French
- German
- Italian
- Japanese
- Mandarin
- Spanish
How it works
Study level
You can study a language even if you're a complete beginner and have never studied it before. When you apply, we'll determine your ability and which classes will best suit you.
The application process will determine a student’s language ability and therefore which level they will begin on. Students will be assigned to an appropriate level.
Classes
Classes take place weekly during term time in the evenings and on Wednesday afternoons at times when there's usually no other scheduled teaching. This makes it easy to fit in classes alongside your main studies.
There are 11 classes in teaching block 1 before the Christmas break and 12 classes in teaching block 2. Classes are 2 hours long if you study at beginner or intermediate level or 3 hours long if you studied the language at A level.
You're assessed so that you're put in the right group for your level of experience.
Course length
Each IWLP module lasts 1 teaching block, giving you flexibility to choose when you study.
You can study more than 1 language a year, but most students focus on 1 or 2 languages throughout their time at university.
Extra support and resources
Away from language classes, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get extra help and support, and practise your language skills.
Language Corner
The Language Corner service is an optional weekly drop-in session. You can meet with a language tutor, get help with specific challenges and practise your skills with proficient speakers of your chosen language.
Global Cafe
The Global Café meets in-person and online on Wednesday afternoon. Students from all over the world meet here to learn about each other's cultures and practise speaking in each other's languages.
Moodle
Moodle is the University’s virtual learning environment (VLE). You can access all IWLP study resources on Moodle from anywhere with a web connection.
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