Modern Languages, Communication and Cultures (Beginner Pathway)
Heriot-Watt University
Modern Languages, Communication and Cultures (Beginner Pathway)
Course Summary
The MA in Modern Languages, Communication & Cultures allows students to study one language to degree level (either Chinese, French, German or Spanish), in conjunction with courses that develop their communication skills more generally, as well as their knowledge and understanding of societies, cultures and political systems. Levels 1, 2, and 4 take a mixture of mandatory and optional courses. In Level 3 students spend one semester abroad but may spend the full year abroad if they wish. There is sufficient flexibility in the programme structure to allow students to select courses in areas of specific interest. It is a requirement of the programme that a period of time is spent abroad in the third year, as on all LINCS UG programmes (except BSL where students undertake a mandatory placement year in the UK).
**Level 1**
Students take language courses (1 per semester) at Intermediate level (for those with Post-Higher/ A-level qualifications in the language of study) or they will follow an accelerated intensive beginners course. Mandatory courses explore management in a global context, intercultural issues, the history and culture of countries where the chosen language is spoken, and academic or professional skills. Those who take Intermediate level language courses can also choose two courses from a range of electives.
**Level 2**
Level 2 moves into the advanced study of the students’ chosen language. Students will take two language courses, one mandatory course on general linguistics, and they further their understanding of the principles underlying the key aspects of cultures, societies and political systems in contemporary Europe and the wider world. Two elective courses can be chosen from a range of electives offered in LINCS.
**Level 3**
Students will spend at least one semester working or studying abroad but may spend the full year abroad if they wish. If one semester is spent abroad, students will return to Edinburgh to undertake supervised project work in the other semester.
**Level 4**
Level 4 comprises one language course in each semester, two mandatory courses on international politics and social and cultural issues from a comparative perspective, as well as two optional courses from a selection including, for example, applied linguistics and sustainable development. Students will also complete an Honours Dissertation in the course of the year.
Course Details - Modules
Modules are not listed for this Course.
Course Details – Assessment Method
Assessment Methods are not listed for this Course.
Course Details – Professional Bodies
Professional Bodies are not listed for this Course.
How to Apply
26 January This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application Codes
Course code:
C4CB
Institution code:
H24
Campus Name:
Edinburgh Campus
Campus code:
Points of Entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
Year 1
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry (Year 2 and Beyond)
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry are not listed for this Course.
International applicants
Standard Qualification Requirements
with B in the graded unit for entry to Year 1.
with BB in the graded unit for entry to Year 1.
This programme is designed for applicants who either have no knowledge of the language they wish to study, or who hold pre-A-level/Higher qualifications such as National 5 or GCSE. If you are not sure which route would be best for you, please contact our enquiries team.
We operate contextual admissions defined by our Fair Access Policy which may mean entry requirements are flexible.
We accept a wide range of other qualifications from the UK, Europe and International countries. Please contact the Admissions Officer for the programme for further information on the entry requirements for these.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
Minimum Qualification Requirements
with B in the graded unit for entry to Year 1.
with BC in the graded unit for entry to Year 1.
As part of the Fair Access Process, the minimum entry requirements enable students who are within one or more of the categories below to be guaranteed an offer:
Living in an area within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation lowest 20% (SIMD20)
Care Experienced, as identified on the UCAS Application form by ticking the relevant box.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
English language requirements
Test
Grade
AdditionalDetails
Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language ability to ensure they can cope with the demands of a Heriot-Watt programme taught and assessed in English. Further information about the English Language tests that we currently accept as proof of English Language ability including our own English Language programmes, can be viewed on our website.
