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Languages courses

Whether you're a complete beginner or want to develop your existing skills, learn step-by-step on an OU languages course. Modern linguistics opens the door to new cultures and opportunities; it could be your key to the global workplace. 

Writing on blackboard in different languages

LanguagesDegrees 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 6 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 3 years


LanguagesDiplomas 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 4 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 2 years


LanguagesCertificates 

Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 2 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 1 year

Why study Languages with The Open University?

With more than 12,000 students on language or applied linguistics modules, you'll join a diverse community of peers, academics and support staff in your studies on an Open University languages qualification.

Studying languages with the OU:

  • Offers you the opportunity to become a proficient user (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages level C1) of at least one modern language.
  • Develops advanced knowledge of the cultures that use your chosen languages.
  • Offers you the opportunity to learn about the English language – it's history, impact on the world today and role in communication from Shakespeare to social media.

Careers in Languages

With increasing demand for language skills in education, and more broadly across the economy in client-facing roles, the ability to communicate in more than one language could be your ticket to a new career, or your passport to a new life abroad.

The breadth of skills you'll develop on an OU language qualification could unlock any number of new careers, including:

  • Diplomatic Service Officer
  • Interpreter
  • Translator
  • PR Consultant

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

See our full list of Languages modules

Language short courses

Start learning a new language, explore different cultures or develop your communication skills with just a few hours' study a week.

See our full list of Languages, cultures and communication short courses

All Languages courses

Browse all of the Languages courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees – including courses where you can combine French, German or Spanish as a second subject.

See our full list of Languages courses