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Modern Languages

Congratulations on your offer of a place at Bangor University

Congratulations on your offer to study one of our Modern Languages programmes here at Bangor University. We're thrilled to welcome you into our community. To help you get familiar with us before you begin in September, we've compiled some resources to address common questions and provide valuable information.

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates, news, and events. We look forward to meeting you soon and wish you all the best as you get ready for your studies.

What to expect as a Modern Languages student

Our courses are taught by world-leading academics and practitioners who are passionate about their subjects. You will learn from experts who are at the forefront of their fields, and you will have access to a wealth of resources to support your studies. Our dedicated team of academics are not just knowledgeable but also have a diverse range of expertise and passions.

We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all of our students. We have a dedicated team of staff who are here to help you with your studies and to make sure that you have a positive experience at Bangor.

Watch our video

Jonathan Ervine - Senior Lecturer Modern Languages
Video: Jonathan Ervine - Senior Lecturer Modern Languages

Congratulations on getting an offer to study here at Bangor University.

I'm Jonathan Ervine, one of the lecturers in Modern Languages.

We are a friendly and welcoming department, and in first year you get an opportunity to do things like learn about contemporary aspects of the languages that you're studying, with authentic to take up to date materials. Get to know your fellow students and staff in an exciting environment.

We look forward to welcoming you here and hope to see you soon.

Student wearing sunglasses looking at a mobile phone, leaning against a wall

Campus Connect

You'll be able to meet other applicants and be part of our Bangor student community even before arriving! You can join the Campus Connect app when it goes live in February. In the app, you can ask questions, chat with current students and make friends with other applicants on your course and in your chosen accommodation. You'll be invited to join by email, which will also include your Bangor University reference number that you'll need to register. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When you study languages, you have language classes that concentrate on skills such as speaking, writing and translating. Also, many of our students study cultural modules about the cinema, literature and history of countries where the relevant languages are spoken. Outside the classroom, there are opportunities to take part in exciting activities that are connected to languages and give you an opportunity to get to know other students. 

Normally, students of modern languages have about 9-12 hours of lessons each week. There are lectures and seminars and we do the majority of our teaching in small groups. This helps to create dialogue between students and staff and gives you an opportunity to ask questions and get feedback.

On language modules, often there is a written exam at the end of the semester as well as other assignments during the semester (presentations, grammar tests, homework assignments). On cultural modules, normally there are essays, presentations and other assignments during the semester.

Most of our modern languages courses last for four years, and include a year abroad in the third year. During the year abroad, students study in a universities with whom we have links, teach English in schools, or do work experience. Often, they have unforgettable experiences that look great on their CV. 

Meet some of your lecturers

Dr Sarah Pogoda

Dr Sarah Pogoda

We are a community here at Bangor, and we live it every day. Students and staff know each other well. We teach in small groups (particularly true for language classes) which allows us to really get to know each student, listen to their learning preferences and adapt our teaching to it. We also have a very creative approach to learning at Bangor, and there are lots of opportunities to engage in creative activities (e.g. curating an exhibition). Outside the classroom, we organise fun and inclusive social events, that allow us to get to know each other even better. 

Enabling people to connect with people all over the world, enriching their experience and prospects by learning how they can shape their own future by speaking multiple languages and seeing the true diversity of cultures. Studying a modern language and cultures somehow means diving into a subculture, you learn about people, histories, arts and even economics. With this knowledge and all the skills for empowerment you gain with a degree in Modern Languages and Cultures, you equip yourself to pursue a unique and extraordinary life. 

Cultures - Languages - Life changing

Dr Jonathan Ervine

I was passionate about languages and really keen to learn more about cinema annd politics in France. I wanted to be able to communicate well in France and explore the country, which I was able to do during time I spent there teaching English at primary, secondary and university level.

A lot of people think that do a language degree is just about communication skills such as writing and speaking. These are important parts of learning a language, but a big part of learning a language is about learning about another culture or cultures. You'll gain fascinating insights into places where a language is spoken and the people who speak it.

I've really enjoyed studying humour, and in particular stand-up comedy, in France. It's been amazing to see the range of different ways people use humour and the ways it can be both a source of controversy and something that has the potential to bring people together.