Higher Education in Language Studies

You can choose French, German, Italian1 and Spanish at beginners’ and intermediate levels, and Chinese (Mandarin)1 at beginners’ level or you can increase your knowledge and skills in using English for academic study.

By the end of the Higher Education in Language Studies course at The Open University, you’ll have moved well beyond the basics in at least one of your chosen languages.

Key features of the course

– Develops you into an independent user (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages level B1) of at least one modern language
– Introduces you to the cultures that use your chosen languages
– Extends your competence in intercultural communication
– Builds a solid foundation for studying languages at more advanced levels
Career relevance

Languages and intercultural skills are key assets in tourism, international business and administration, and the diplomatic service. They are also highly valued by employers in a wide range of other sectors, who place a premium on the ability to make contact and communicate with global trade partners and to understand overseas business environments – and who often acknowledge this with higher salaries.

According to the National Centre for Languages, knowing foreign languages opens the doors to a wide range of economic, social and personal benefits. Being able to communicate effectively with our customers, colleagues and business partners is critical to competitiveness and social cohesion. The languages most in demand in UK industry are French, German, Spanish and Mandarin, though knowledge of any other language will also give you the edge.