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Study languages and linguistics

You will be taught by specialists in applied linguistics and modern languages and cultures (French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Latin America) in a school that prides itself on research-led teaching, making it an outstanding multidisciplinary unit.

We offer a number of flexible, exciting modules and courses that allow you to develop your interest in language studies at every level, from language-learning short courses, to study at BA degree level, Graduate Diploma, MA and PhD.

When you study languages, comparative cultures and applied linguistics at Birkbeck, you join scholars with shared interests in interdisciplinary inquiry and cross-cultural research. Our affiliated research centres - the Centre for French, Francophone and Comparative Studies (CFFCS), the Centre for Iberian and Latin American Visual Studies (CILAVS), and Eighteenth-Century Research Group - offer a dynamic programme of guest lectures, workshops and conferences, and provide an important platform for this exchange among students, researchers and the public.

All teaching takes place in Bloomsbury in central London, a neighbourhood filled with research libraries, theatres, museums and galleries.

Come and meet us

If you're looking to start studying with us in October 2026, or are looking ahead to 2027, join us for our Undergraduate Open Day on 7 March or our Postgraduate Open Evening on 18 March.

If you can't make these dates, or would like to visit us sooner, come along to one of our campus tours.

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'I had the opportunity to go to Tokyo in my final year on a language exchange programme'

We offer programmes in languages, linguistics, as well as degrees that combine languages with another subject. Hear our students talk about their time studying languages at Birkbeck.

Browse all our undergraduate languages and linguistics courses

Languages and Linguistics at Birkbeck

All Languages and Linguistics Courses

If you're serious about becoming a highly proficient linguist while learning a language to a near-native standard, Birkbeck has a specialist range of courses to fulfil your aspirations. See our degree programmes.

Study Abroad

Our study abroad programmes allow you to immerse yourself in the language and culture of another country.

Birkbeck Applied Linguistics Society

The Birkbeck Applied Linguistics Society brings together students interested in applied linguistics and communications and related fields.

OUR LANGUAGES

You can study the language, history, art and culture of French, German, Italian, Japanese or Spanish speaking language areas at all levels under the guidance of world-leading researchers and teachers.

Our courses give you the chance to enrich and broaden your language skills. On some of our courses, you can work exclusively in English, enabling you to communicate to a high level in a number of subjects.

French

We offer a number of flexible, exciting modules and courses that allow you to develop your interest in French studies at every level.

German

Taught by native speakers of German, you'll learn the language and develop an in-depth understanding of modern German literature, film and history.

Italian

If you love Venice and Rome, opera, Italian film, Dante, Pirandello and Calvino, our Italian courses offer you the chance to learn the language and culture.

Japanese

Specialising in contemporary Japanese culture, our courses offer you the chance to study Japan's society, history, language, and culture.

Korean

Our latest language on offer, come learn about the culture of this increasingly important Asian country.

Spanish and Latin American Studies

We offer courses to suit range of levels, from short courses to degree programmes. You'll gain significant understanding of Spanish and Latin American cultures, as well as developing your langauge skills.

What is code-switching?

Professor Penelope Gardner-Chloros explains code-switching. The practice involves alternating between two or more languages, or language varieties, in the context of a single conversation. Hear when and why people might do it.

Meet the Languages, Cultures and Applied Linguistics academics

MEET THE TEAM SUPPORTING YOU

Contact us

Contact us if you need specific course advice that's not available on our site or if you're a PhD student with research enquiries.

Staff list

Browse a list of the academic staff teaching you as well as the school staff who can provide help and guidance.

Open days

Come to Birkbeck and visit us in central London or watch an online campus tour.

MORE REASONS TO CHOOSE BIRKBECK

Top reasons to choose Birkbeck

If you have the ability and drive to succeed, find out how Birkbeck’s study options and outstanding support can help you achieve the university education you want.

Student services

Birkbeck offers a range of help to current students, including disability support, counselling, financial help and academic support.

Student funding

Find out more about advice, support and funding opportunities for Birkbeck students at undergraduate, postgraduate and MPhil/PhD levels.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for any of our courses, including details about work experience, personal statements and supporting documents.

International students

If you're an international student wanting to study at Birkbeck, find out about our entry requirements, English language requirements and how to apply.