Program Overview

Program Overview

The University of Birmingham offers a German and Italian BA program, which allows students to develop their language and communication skills in both languages. This program is designed to prepare students for a career in international relations, diplomacy, and European policy-making.

Course Highlights

• Top 10 in the UK for German
• Top 10 in the UK for Italian
• Combine advanced or beginners' German with beginners' Italian
• Study language and topics of cultural significance, designed and delivered by expert teachers and researchers
• Enjoy focused academic contact in small groups, encouraging active language learning through engagement with cultural material
• Learn in a vibrant city that is culturally, ethnically, and religiously diverse

Course Delivery

• Lectures: Provide an insightful, expert introduction to key topics and guidance to support reading and assessments
• Seminars: Small group discussions where students share and test ideas with their academic tutor and peers
• Tutorials: One-to-one or small group sessions for personalized guidance and support

Support during Studies

• Personal Academic Tutors: Guide and support students throughout their studies
• Wellbeing Officers: Help with extensions, disabilities, extenuating circumstances, or personal challenges
• Academic Writing Advisory Service: Tutorials, workshops, and support in structuring an argument and developing an academic voice
• Student Experience Team: Offer research opportunities, cultural, intellectual, and social activities to enhance the university experience

Module Information

The program consists of four years, with the following modules:

• Year 1: Discover: Personal, Academic, and Professional Development in Modern Languages, Nation, Democracy, Diversity in the German-speaking world, German Language 1 (Advanced or Beginners), Italian Language 1 (Beginners), Visions of Italy on paper and screen, and Visions of Italy through music
• Year 2: Modules to be confirmed
• Year abroad: Spend the third year abroad, perfecting language skills, developing a thorough appreciation of another culture, and acquiring transferable skills
• Year 4: Modules to be confirmed

Entry Requirements

• A Level: ABB, with grade B required for any advanced language
• IB: 6,5,5, including 32 points total
• BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s
• Independent language diplomas: Considered for advanced language study
• English language requirements: IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson Test of English, or Cambridge English

Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition fee: £9,535 per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
• Scholarships: Available for Home and International students
• Undergraduate loans: Available through the Student Loans Company

Application Process

• Apply online through UCAS
• Deadline: 14 January 2026 for September 2026 entry

Career Opportunities

• Strong communication and presentation skills in English and one or more other languages
• Deep understanding and appreciation of other cultures
• Independence and experience of living abroad
• Expressing thoughts, feelings, and opinions in different registers
• Leadership, negotiation, debating, and teamwork
• Handling complex information
• The ability to form concise and articulate arguments
• Alumni have secured roles in organizations such as BBC News, House of Commons, and Warner Bros. Discovery

Student Experience

• Accommodation: Variety of options in the UK's second city
• Living in Birmingham: Unique history, ever-changing food and drink scene, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of culture
• Student support: Committed to providing the best possible support to students
• Campus life: Beautiful campus with historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities

Related Courses

• Modern Languages BA

Student Stories

• Available on the University of Birmingham website