Program Overview

Program Overview

The University of Birmingham offers a German and Russian BA program, which allows students to study two highly valuable languages for careers in international relations and diplomacy. The program explores a vast range of historical, cultural, and literary topics alongside the chosen languages.

Course Highlights

• Top 10 in the UK for German
• Top 20 in the UK for Modern Languages
• Combine advanced or beginners' German with beginners' Russian
• Study language and topics of cultural significance, designed and delivered by expert teachers and researchers
• Learn in a vibrant city that is culturally, ethnically, and religiously diverse
• Enjoy focused academic contact with competitive contact hours in small groups

Course Delivery

• Lectures provide an insightful introduction to key topics and guidance to support reading and assessments
• Seminars are small group discussions where students share and test ideas with their academic tutor and peers
• Tutorials offer additional support and guidance

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 provides tutorials, workshops, and support in structuring arguments and developing academic voice
• Student Experience Team offers research opportunities, cultural, intellectual, and social activities to enhance university experience

Contact Hours

• The degree is designed to help students achieve 120 credits per year, which equals about 40 hours of learning each week
• This includes lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, revision, and assessments

Assessment Methods

• Different assessment methods suit each module, including coursework, group or individual presentations, projects, exams, reports, or computer-based assignments
• Timely feedback is provided on each assessment to help students learn and improve performance

Module Information

• The modules listed are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods
• Optional module information is indicative, and availability may vary from year to year

Year 1

• Discover: Personal, Academic, and Professional Development in Modern Languages (20 credits)
• Students must take 80 credits in German and 40 credits in Russian
• Compulsory modules include:
  • Nation, Democracy, Diversity in the German-speaking world (20 credits)
  • German Language 1 (Advanced or Beginners) (20 credits)
  • Red Lives: A Cultural History of Soviet Life and Its Afterlife (10 credits)
  • Roots of the Rus': Language, Culture, and Civilisation (10 credits)
  • Russian Language 1 (Beginners): Decoding and Discovering Russian (20 credits)
• Optional modules include:
  • Introduction to European Film A (10 credits)
  • Introduction to European Film B (10 credits)
  • Introduction to Linguistics A: Science of Language (10 credits)
  • Introduction to Linguistics B: language change and variation (10 credits)
  • Landmarks in European Literature A (10 credits)
  • Landmarks in European Literature B (10 credits)
  • Translation in Practice I (10 credits)
  • Translation in Practice II (10 credits)
  • Creating Identities in the German-Speaking World A (10 credits)
  • Creating Identities in the German-Speaking World B (10 credits)
  • Beginners Catalan Language A (10 credits)
  • Beginners Catalan Language B (10 credits)
  • Catalan Culture Project A (10 credits)
  • Catalan Culture Project B (10 credits)

Entry Requirements

• A Level: ABB, with grade B required for any advanced language
• IB: 6,5,5, including 32 points total, with Higher Level or equivalent in the modern language
• BTEC: DDM, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s
• Independent language diplomas: Goethe-Zertifikat-B2 (German) accepted as demonstration of advanced language skills
• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and Core Maths qualification considered for alternative offers
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any band, or equivalent

Fees and Scholarships

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

Application Process

• Apply online through UCAS
• Application deadline: 14 January 2026 for September 2026 entry
• Standard requirements and alternative offers available for eligible students

Career Opportunities

• Modern Languages graduates develop skills valued by employers, including strong communication and presentation skills, independence, and experience of living abroad
• Career paths include translation, director, founder, and communications manager roles
• The University's Careers Network provides support and guidance for students and graduates

Related Courses

• Modern Languages BA

Student Experience

• The University of Birmingham offers a range of accommodation options, student support services, and campus facilities
• Students can get involved in various activities and societies outside of their studies
• The University is committed to providing the best possible support to its students, both before and during their time on campus

Student Stories

• Students share their experiences and stories about university life, including studying abroad and getting involved in campus activities.