Programmes of Study
The study of modern languages is of critical importance in an age of rapidly growing contacts between nations of the world. Knowledge of another language enables the individual to become immersed in the culture, in the broadest sense, of those languages: the society they reflect, the history and literature of their speakers. The resulting familiarity with other peoples and cultures not only broadens one's own horizons, but also paves the way to becoming a full member of the international community. Frequently students also discover a love for a given language in and of itself, and every modern language has a rich literary heritage through which the student can explore it further. For those who have or develop an interest in language, closer linguistic study of languages offers insights not just into a non-native language, but into our own language as well.
Whether Modern Language students begin studying a language here for the first time, or come with A-Level/Higher qualifications, programmes across the School are designed to lead them through progressively sophisticated stages culminating in admission, after two years of sub-honours study, to Honours. Core language programmes at subhonours are structurally equivalent in all five departments but their non-language course content may vary from language to language, including the study of literature, history or linguistics. Students intending to study more than one language have an evenly split programme throughout the subhonours levels (but see the Russian entry for details and other possibilities).
Students usually spend a period abroad between second and third year. How and where this period is spent will depend on whether they are taking a four-year or five-year degree course. Precise decisions on periods abroad are taken, in consultation with students, during the second year of study.
Once admitted to Honours students continue to follow core language courses in each language. Depending on whether a given student is following a one, two or three language programme into Honours, he/she will also take a variety of courses in literature, culture or linguistics. One and two language students have greater flexibility in choosing such modules as the number of credits available for each is greater than it is for three language students. Course pathways for each language may be found outlined in the relevant departmental pages.
Strengths of the Course
- Skilled and dedicated teachers.
- The opportunity to acquire and develop linguistic skills both in St Andrews and abroad.
- A friendly environment.
- A broad range of subject choices in all languages.
- A degree that commands respect and leads to excellent career prospects.
Teaching
Core language teaching (grammar, lectures, translation) is conducted in classes that are kept as small as possible. All students meet with native language instructors for small oral/ conversation classes each week. Native speakers also teach core modules at both Honours and sub-honours levels. Content modules, such as literature courses, have a lecture format with small group or individual tutorials in most departments. Others linguistics, film) may be taught in a seminar format.