Modern Languages and Linguistics
I've always found languages really cool, especially how they're so different around the world and the way that they can change and evolve. I enjoy how flexible my course is and that I'm able to focus on the elements that interest me the most! My best experience of studying Spanish and Linguistics was one Latin American poetry tutorial when my tutor had found a poet that he thought I'd enjoy more than the one I'd originally chosen to write about. So, instead of discussing my essay we spent an hour reading and analysing that - it was so much more fun!
I chose this course becayse I really like French and I really like Linguistics. Luckily, employers like it too! But the breadth of a Modern Languages degree combined with Linguistics will be even more impressive and show an employer how versatile you are. I was quite surprised to find that the majority of this course is done in English. Although the texts I study are in French, we discuss and write about them in English.
Modern Languages and Linguistics is the perfect degree for someone interested in a modern language and its literature, as well as the scientific aspects of language. Although there are a few classes a week on translation and developing oral skills, the modern language side of the degree focuses largely on the study of literature. In Linguistics, you'll look at how we produce sounds, how language has developed, and how it works in our brains.
But remember, there's no need to panic! You're not expected to know everything already, and the tutors just want you to be genuinely interested in the areas of language and linguistics. If you love languages, then you're bound to fall in love with at least one part of the course by the end of your first year.
What helped inspire your love of the subject?
During school I studied "Crónica de una muerte anunciada" by Gabriel García Márquez which definitely sparked a love for Latin American literature. I also read Limits of Language by Mikael Parkvall which was a really good introduction to linguistics (and quite an easy read!).
Find out more
Make sure you read the official prospectus entry for the course which contains entry requirements, full course structure, additional interesting resources and full details of the application process.
If you're going to apply, you'll want to check which Oxford colleges offer this course.
You might also find it helpful to hear from students studying Modern Languages, Philosophy and Modern Languages, Oriental Studies or PPL (or even consider applying for those courses!).