The MA (Hons) Modern Languages, Communication and Culture programme at Heriot-Watt University gives you the chance to study a modern language of your choice from a beginner level to a proficient standard. 

This degree allows you to choose either Chinese, French, German or Spanish. Language skills are combined with advanced communication skills and studied alongside the societies, cultures, and political systems of the countries where your chosen language is spoken.  

The MA Modern Languages, Communication and Culture programme is a clear example of our career-focused approach to language studies, and Heriot-Watt University ranked 2nd for German, 2nd for Iberian Languages and 3rd for French in Scotland in the Complete University Guide 2022. We are also accredited as a higher education partner by the Chartered Institute of Linguists. 

In your third year, you’ll spend at least one semester working or studying abroad at one of our partner universities. This is a great opportunity to further develop your language skills, as you will be immersed in the language and culture you are studying.  

This degree can be studied by individuals with no prior language learning, using Heriot-Watt's tried and tested beginner pathway for language learning, which allows you to catch up during your first year and join standard language courses by year two of the degree.  

There is sufficient flexibility in the programme structure to allow you to select courses in areas of specific interest, such as business, economics, and intercultural studies. Beyond the subject specific knowledge and skills, you’ll be given the opportunity to learn and practice transferrable skills such as presentation, communication, analytical and ICT skills. 

You’ll benefit from the industry relevance of the programme, which will set you up for life after graduation. This degree will provide you with opportunities for a global career. Upon completion, you’ll be equipped with transferable communication and language skills that are required to enter the employment market in a strong position.   

Study at least one language to degree level:

• Chinese (UCAS Code: C4CC)
• French (UCAS Code: C4CF)
• German (UCAS Code: C4CG)
• Spanish (UCAS Code: C4CS)
• Beginner Pathway (UCAS Code: C4CB)

MA Modern Languages, Communication & Culture gives you the opportunity to study Chinese, French, German or Spanish from beginner/intermediate level to a proficient standard in four years. 

On this degree, Language skills are combined with advanced communication skills and studied alongside the societies, cultures, and political systems of the countries where your chosen language is spoken. 

This degree allows you to choose either Chinese, French, German or Spanish and spend Year 3 studying one or two semesters abroad, immersed in your chosen language and culture. 

Start from Beginner or Intermediate Level

This degree can be studied by individuals with no prior language learning, using Heriot-Watt’s tried and tested beginner pathway for language learning, which allows students to ‘catch up’ during Year 1 and join standard language courses by Year 2 of the degree. 

There is sufficient flexibility in the programme structure to allow you to select courses in areas of specific interest, such as business, economics and intercultural studies.