University of York

What you'll study

This four-year programme focuses on developing advanced competence in both French and Spanish, combining language skills with interdisciplinary study of literature, film, linguistics, translation, and cultural, historical and political contexts. Teaching covers speaking, listening, reading and writing, and students move from core language modules in the early years to specialised options in the later years.

• Year 1: Intensive language modules to consolidate grammar and vocabulary; introductory literature and culture modules (e.g. contemporary societies, introduction to film and visual culture); skills training in translation and oral communication.
• Year 2: Higher-level language classes; thematic modules in literature, film, linguistics and cultural studies; preparation for the year abroad including intercultural practice and language-learning strategies.
• Year 3: Year abroad spent studying at partner universities or completing supervised work placements in French- and Spanish-speaking countries. The year abroad is designed to maximise language immersion and may combine academic study, internships, teaching practice or professional placements.
• Year 4: Return to York for final-year specialist options and independent work: advanced translation, discourse analysis, comparative literature, area studies, or a dissertation/project on a chosen topic. Assessment mixes coursework, oral examinations, translation pieces and written exams.

Students can normally choose from a wide range of optional modules to tailor the degree towards literature, linguistics, media, business and cultural studies. The Department supports language learning with small-group seminars, conversation classes and multimedia resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance at secondary level (for UK applicants this will usually be A-levels or equivalent; international applicants should present appropriate national qualifications or international equivalents). Evidence of competence in both French and Spanish is expected — this may be through formal qualifications, recent study, or a recorded language sample. The department also considers applicants who have studied one language to a high level and wish to begin the other language from beginner level, subject to an assessment or interview.

Mature and international applicants are welcome; where necessary, candidates may be asked to provide additional evidence of language ability (for example, a language test or a short assignment). Applicants who speak one language natively should still demonstrate competence in the second language or be prepared to follow a beginner pathway for that language.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with advanced language skills, intercultural competence and transferable analytical, communication and research abilities. Typical career paths include:

• Translation and interpreting (freelance or in-house)
• International business, marketing and sales roles with a continental focus
• Diplomatic service, international development and non-governmental organisations
• Teaching languages (often followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification such as a PGCE)
• Media, publishing, cultural management and tourism
• Further study in language research, comparative literature, linguistics or applied translation studies

The year abroad is particularly valued by employers and helps graduates secure roles that require real-world language use and cross-cultural experience. The University’s careers service and departmental placement support help students prepare applications, CVs and interviews for international careers.

Why study at University of York

The University of York’s Department of Languages and Linguistics (and allied modern languages provision) offers specialist teaching across French and Spanish with a strong emphasis on both linguistic accuracy and cultural literacy. Small-group seminars, language conversation classes and dedicated year-abroad support ensure personalised learning and effective preparation for time overseas.

York’s collegiate environment and central campus provide a supportive student experience with ready access to language learning resources, film and media facilities, and regular guest lectures and events. The department maintains long-standing partnerships with universities and organisations across France and Spain to help secure high-quality study and placement opportunities for the year abroad.

Students benefit from the university-wide careers and employability services, extracurricular language and society groups, and opportunities to combine language study with interdisciplinary modules across the arts, social sciences and business subjects.