All students at the University of Bath can take a language course alongside their degree.
We have been running language courses for over twenty years. They are designed and delivered by a team of highly experienced teachers who are passionate about the importance of foreign languages as an integral part of a broad, rich and varied learning experience.
Why learn a language?*
Speaking another language will give you a significant advantage in today’s competitive global employment market. Learning a language also develops a wide range of vital employability skills.
We aim to increase your cultural awareness and communication skills and build your confidence to travel, study and work abroad.
About our language classes
When you study with us, you will join a vibrant learning community made up of students, members of staff at the University and members of the general public.
We offer courses in eight different languages, all starting from beginner level. The course levels are based on the Common European Framework.
You can find information about the levels we offer by visiting the language page you are interested in:
"My language classes at the University of Bath have given me a passion which will last far beyond my time at this university, and have had an impact both on my professional and personal life." (Michal Nalepa, BEng Civil Engineering)
Class delivery
Our courses run for 10 weeks each semester. If you wish to continue learning the language you will need to register for the next level (if available) at the start of the following semester. Your teacher will let you know what your next level will be.
Our lessons are between 50 minutes and 120 minutes long, depending on the language and level. You are also expected to undertake autonomous study to make progress. Your teacher will give you guidance on what is required.
Details of which specific courses are running each semester can be found in the timetable on the enrolment page.
For the Academic Year 2022/23, our classes will be a mix of in-person and remote lessons, offering students greater flexibility.
Moodle
Moodle is our main Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). On the Moodle course pages you will find an overview of the course content. The courses are structured lesson by lesson, and learning objectives and resources for each lesson are provided.
Class sizes
We maintain small class sizes (maximum 25 students per class) so we can ensure that you get personalised support. All classes are inclusive and accessible and will support your language learning in an informal, but structured way.
Course materials
Following your enrolment we will email you with details of what textbook you will need and how to order it.
Attendance
Attendance registers are kept and regular attendance is essential. Language learning requires a commitment to participate fully and carry out the activities set by your teacher. Students who attend regularly will progress more quickly and get the most out of their language learning experience.
Completion certificate
If you successfully complete your course, you can request a certificate. In a job market which highly values language skills, you can use this to demonstrate your skills and achievement.
Other ways to explore languages
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) for languages
PAL sessions are facilitated by PAL leaders, who are native or near native speakers of the language you are learning.
During the PAL sessions you can practise and develop your language and intercultural skills informally outside the classroom with other students from all disciplines and levels of study.
Find out more about the PAL programme.
Virtual Exchange
A Virtual Exchange is a short project that brings students from different parts of the world and different cultural backgrounds together online.
Students from the University of Bath can interact informally in English and the foreign language with a student from a partner university overseas.
Find out more about the Virtual Exchange programme.
Blogs
You can find information and tips on learning languages, and to read our students' experiences, in these blogs on foreign languages.