If you have strong linguistic skills, an interest in learning about different cultures and want to learn another language, this course will be worth considering. Do you have strong communication, verbal and written skills? Do you have an open mind for cultures and want to learn more? Have a look at this course if so.
What are Languages, Linguistics and Cultures?
Languages are systems of communication by a particular country/area while linguistics is the scientific study of languages and their structures. Culture is the customs, ideas and social behaviour of groups within certain countries/areas.
What 3rd level courses are available?
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in the following subject areas:
- Languages, Linguistics and Cultures – UCD
Related:
- Modern Languages
- Applied Languages
- European Studies and Languages
- World Languages
- Arts, Culture and History
Studying Languages, Linguistics and Cultures in college
There is one main course under this title that is an undergraduate degree. It is offered by University College Dublin (UCD) and is a Level 8 undergraduate course that is 4 years in length. There are many PLC courses that are relevant to this course that can give you an idea of the areas you’ll be studying also. PLC courses are generally 1-2 years in length.
The first year of any undergraduate course will act as a foundation year where you will gain a strong knowledge of the basic principles in subject areas of languages, linguistics and cultures. Modules you will cover in your first year include Sounds in Language, Language Use and Communication and Words and Sentences. Should you choose to study Greek or Latin you will choose three other modules from the list of choices but if you choose any other language, you will choose four modules.
The list of modules to choose from includes Introduction to Celtic Civilization, Contemporary Irish Writing, Introduction to Film and Media, Reading SHort French Texts: Literary Analysis, German for Beginners, Introduction to Folklore, Reading German Literature, The Making of Modern Europe: 1500-2000 and many more.
Your second and third year of your course will introduce you to more complex and in-depth information. Modules you may cover will depend on the language you choose to study and the specifics of your choices. You will take three modules in the language of your choice, three modules in linguistics and more modules in culture and literature.
Third year will also allow you to broaden your horizons by studying abroad on the Erasmus programme in countries including Austria, Germany, France (including overseas regions), Spain, Latin America (including Brazil), Italy, Croatia, UK, North America, South Africa, Iceland. You will also apply for an internship to allow you to gain experience in the field of work and increase and develop your skills.
Your final year will see you focus on the areas and modules that you have chosen to specialise in as well as your culture and literature modules.
Career options
There are a number of career options in this area as languages, culture and linguistics is quite a broad area. Job options include jobs in education, media, translation, public service, cultural institutions, research, editing and publishing as well as jobs in the private sector.
There are also opportunities to continue on your studies at postgraduate level and add an MLitt and/or PhD to your qualifications.
Skills and qualities important in this area include excellent communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, strong verbal and written skills, the ability to work well with others, open minded, and interest in learning about different cultures, linguistic skills, organisation skills and time management skills.
Related Jobs
- Interpreter
- Translator
- Teacher
- Media
- Writer
Further Study
Visit postgrad.ie for more information.
FAQ
Different courses and different colleges will have different entry requirements. It’s always safest to check with the individual higher education institution which is available on their websites. As a general rule Leaving Cert students should have a minimum of six subjects which should include: Two H5 (Higher Level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary Level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English.
PLC courses will accept Leaving Certificate results. Specific courses may have their own requirements.Certain QQI courses may be accepted.
Points needed to study this course in UCD last year were between 326-340 depending on the specifics of your choices.
Where can I study?
For other courses in the area you would like to explore, you can do so here.
Did you know?
- There are over 7,000 languages worldwide
- Cambodia has the longest alphabet with 74 letters
- The oldest surviving language in the world is called Tamil and it originated in 300 BC
Resources
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