Program Overview

Introduction to the Multilingual Bachelor in Linguistics and Literary Studies

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is launching a unique program, the Multilingual Bachelor in Linguistics and Literary Studies (MUBA), which will be taught in English. This program is the first of its kind in Europe, offering a multilingual, multicultural, and urban-focused education.

Program Structure

• The program allows students to choose two main languages from the six offered: German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Dutch. These languages will be the medium of instruction for all courses related to them.
• From the third year onwards, students can add a minor in one or two additional languages to their program.
• The program includes a six-month international experience, which can be completed either abroad or through a innovative blended learning approach on the VUB campus.

Urbanism and Multilingualism

The program's research focus is deliberately at its core, with literature courses emphasizing intermediality and urbanity, and linguistics courses focusing on multilingualism, language variation, and the relationship between language and cognition. These specializations are explored not only in a renewed set of general courses but also in specific courses on the six main languages offered.

International Experience

The program provides an international experience through an integrated semester focused on international experiences. In addition to the well-known Erasmus exchange experience in the third year of the bachelor's program, additional exchange possibilities have been set up with VUB's European partners.

EUTOPIA Alliance

The VUB is part of the EUTOPIA alliance, a group of 10 like-minded universities aiming to reinvent themselves. This alliance offers students the opportunity to study up to 30 ECTS of courses at one of the partner universities through a "blended learning" approach.

Research Areas

The program's research areas include:

• Multilingualism
• Language variation
• Relationship between language and cognition
• Intermediality
• Urbanity

Language Options

Students can study up to five languages, including:

• Two main languages chosen from the six offered
• English as the language of instruction for general courses
• Up to two additional languages through minor options
• A module on Dutch as a second language for non-native students
• An optional module on Chinese language and culture

Conclusion

The Multilingual Bachelor in Linguistics and Literary Studies at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a unique and innovative education that combines multilingualism, multiculturalism, and urban focus. With its international experience, research-oriented approach, and language options, this program is designed to prepare students for a globalized world and provide them with a competitive edge in the job market.