International Languages

Programme Short Name: BA (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Load (FT vs PT): Full Time
Levels (UG, G, etc): Graduate studies
Course Information:

CAO Code: DN541
CAO Points Range 2015: 460 - 615
Length of Course: 4 Years
Average Intake: 40

Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, a third language & three other recognised subjects. Two of the six subjects must be minimum HC3.

Special Entry Recommendation: If you choose to study a language at advanced (post-Leaving Certificate) level during your first year, it is recommended that you have at least an HC3 grade in that language at Leaving Certificate, or equivalent.

Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for:
A-Level/GCSE
Other EU Applicants
Non-EU Applicants
Mature Entry Route


Choosing

You will find details on this website of the opportunities available to study French, German, Italian, and Spanish including the opportunity to spend a year abroad.

This degree is for those of you who want to concentrate on at least two languages, spend a year abroad and graduate with a BA (International).

Restricted option choices may apply to the combination German/Spanish, especially in second and third year.


Why is this course for me?

International Languages combines advanced language skills with the literature, history and culture of the countries where these languages are spoken. It also focuses on developing critical faculties and crosscultural awareness. You can study French, German, Italian or Spanish at an advanced level (post-Leaving Certificate or equivalent), and you can take Italian, Spanish and German as a beginner. Portuguese can be taken on an elective basis. Much of our teaching is in small groups, where you will expand your communication skills and develop as an independent learner. A crucial element of the degree is the year abroad, where you have the unique opportunity to become immersed in another culture.


What will I study?

First year
Modules in two languages, at either advanced or beginner level, as well as:

  • Two intercultural modules
  • Choice of modules in linguistics, literature, history and cultural studies
  • An optional third language

Second Year

  • One core intercultural module
  • Two main languages
  • Choice of modules in linguistics, literature, history and cultural studies
  • An optional third language

Year Abroad

  • Linguistic, literary, historical and/or cultural courses at the host institution
  • Continued study of second language

Fourth Year

  • One intercultural module
  • Continuation of the languages chosen in second year
  • Option modules as above

Students spend approximately 15 hours a week attending language classes, lectures and tutorials and 25 hours a week undertaking independent study.

Assessment is through a combination of end-of-semester written and oral examinations, and continuous assessments.

For detailed information on course subject content click here


Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

Your excellent knowledge of languages and strong communication, intercultural and analytical skills will open careers in:

  • Politics and public service
  • Journalism
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Marketing and business
  • Creative and media industries
  • Translation and interpreting

You will also be well qualified to pursue programmes at master’s and PhD level.


International Study Opportunity:

Studying abroad is an essential element of this degree. Students are guaranteed an Erasmus exchange place at one of our more than 40 partner universities in Germany, Austria, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Chile.


Student Profile

"I have always had a profound interest in the Romance languages and the cultures associated with them. When I found out about the BA in International Languages, I knew it was the right degree for me because it combines the main European languages with their past and present culture and history. The language classes are taught in small groups, creating a very relaxed learning environment where teachers are always available to help you with any problems. The year abroad has not only given my language skills a huge boost but has also broadened my understanding of what it means to be a citizen in the EU nowadays."

Carla Fette


Related Programs: Business/Bachelor of Commerce International Degree Course
French
German
Italian
Spanish
Pathway


Contact Information:

Dr Sabine Krobb
UCD School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics
Room A310, Newman Building
Belfield, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 716 8187
Email: strumper.krobb@ucd.ie