UNIVERSITY OF EXETER · UNITED KINGDOM
BA Comparative Literatures and Cultures and Modern Languages
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS Q204
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- QS World University Subject Rankings 2026Top 150 in world for Modern Languages and Cultures
- The Complete University Guide 2027Top 15 in UK for Modern Languages
- Learn Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or SpanishLanguage Options
- Option to study or work abroad in your third year (4-year course)International Placement Year
- Focus on decolonial perspectives and global issuesContemporary Relevance
- Access to internationally recognised collections on-siteUnique Resources
This BA programme offers a comprehensive study of literature, film, and art from diverse global perspectives, spanning from ancient to contemporary periods. You will explore pressing global issues such as migration, environmental concerns, and gender and sexuality through a comparative lens, with a decolonial focus. The course also provides the opportunity to learn one of seven languages (Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish) to a high level of proficiency. Students can choose to study for three years or opt for a four-year 'with International Placement' degree, which includes a year abroad. Throughout your studies, you will develop a sophisticated understanding of cultural, political, social, and economic forces that influence how ideas and art travel across languages and borders. The curriculum combines in-depth language acquisition with the study of literature, culture, film, history, and linguistics. The programme aims to equip you with essential intercultural communication skills, preparing you for a variety of global careers.
Curriculum
Each year of study involves compulsory modules in your chosen language, optional modules focusing on the culture and context of the language you are studying, and modules in Comparative Literatures and Cultures. The programme emphasizes developing high proficiency in reading, writing, understanding, and speaking your selected language, alongside a broad engagement with global literature, film, and art. Students starting a language from beginner level must undertake the 4-year 'with International Placement' programme.
- Year 1
- Compulsory Language Module
- Optional Modules in Language Context
- Comparative Literatures and Cultures Modules
- Year 2
- Compulsory Language Module
- Optional Modules in Language Context
- Comparative Literatures and Cultures Modules
- Year 3 (4-year course)
- International Placement Year (Study or Work Abroad)
- Year 4 (or Year 3 for 3-year course)
- Compulsory Language Module
- Optional Modules in Language Context
- Comparative Literatures and Cultures Modules
- Employability or MA Preparation Module
Careers
This programme prepares graduates for a wide range of careers globally. The skills developed, including high-level language proficiency and intercultural communication, are highly valued by employers. The optional employability module or MA preparation module further enhances career prospects.
- Translator
- Interpreter
- International Business
- Diplomacy
- Journalism
- Publishing
- Education
- Cultural Relations
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students must typically demonstrate English proficiency, often through qualifications like GCSE English Language at Grade 4/C or an equivalent test score.
- What are the academic entry requirements for this programme?
- Typical academic requirements include A-Levels grades of ABB, IB Diploma of 32/655, or a BTEC Diploma of DDM. Specific requirements may vary depending on the language studied and the chosen pathway.
- How do I apply for the BA Comparative Literatures and Cultures and Modern Languages programme?
- Applications are submitted through UCAS. You will need to specify your chosen language of study on your UCAS form, and applications are typically due in January for the following academic year.
- What languages can I study as part of this degree?
- You can choose to learn one of seven languages: Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish to a high level of proficiency.
- What is the duration of the programme and are there international options?
- The programme can be completed in three years. Alternatively, you can opt for a four-year degree that includes an International Placement Year for study or work abroad.
- Where can I find information about tuition fees and living costs?
- Tuition fee and living cost information for international students is not provided here. Please refer to the University of Exeter's official fees pages for the most current details.
Entry requirements
A-LevelABB
IB Diploma32/655
BTEC DiplomaDDM
Access to HE24 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade
GCSE English LanguageGrade 4/C
Profile B1 (various accepted tests)See English language requirements page for specific scores
Specific subject requirements may apply depending on the language level chosen. Contextual offers are available (A-Level: BBC, IB: 28/554, BTEC: DMM). T-Levels are not accepted. General Studies is not included in any offer. International qualifications are considered, and equivalencies can be found on the university's international students webpages. A formal award from a recognised awarding body is required.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Tuition fee and living cost information for international students is not provided on the linked pages. Please refer to the University of Exeter's official fees pages for current details.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsReview the typical and contextual offers for A-Levels, IB, BTEC, and other qualifications, as well as English language proficiency requirements.
2. Choose Your LanguageDecide which of the seven available languages (Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish) you wish to study and note the UCAS code required for it.
3. Complete UCAS ApplicationSubmit your application through UCAS, ensuring you specify your chosen language in the 'further details' section of the choices form.
4. Await DecisionApplications are assessed, and decisions are released by the university. Further information on the assessment process is available on the 'After you apply' pages.
5. Accept OfferIf an offer is made, follow the instructions provided to accept your place.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students must typically demonstrate English proficiency, often through qualifications like GCSE English Language at Grade 4/C or an equivalent test score.
What are the academic entry requirements for this programme?
+
Typical academic requirements include A-Levels grades of ABB, IB Diploma of 32/655, or a BTEC Diploma of DDM. Specific requirements may vary depending on the language studied and the chosen pathway.
How do I apply for the BA Comparative Literatures and Cultures and Modern Languages programme?
+
Applications are submitted through UCAS. You will need to specify your chosen language of study on your UCAS form, and applications are typically due in January for the following academic year.
What languages can I study as part of this degree?
+
You can choose to learn one of seven languages: Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish to a high level of proficiency.
What is the duration of the programme and are there international options?
+
The programme can be completed in three years. Alternatively, you can opt for a four-year degree that includes an International Placement Year for study or work abroad.
Where can I find information about tuition fees and living costs?
+
Tuition fee and living cost information for international students is not provided here. Please refer to the University of Exeter's official fees pages for the most current details.