Modern Languages (German and Italian) and English

Modern languages studied in combination, here German, Italian and English, open three distinct windows onto the world. German connects you to the most widely spoken native language in the European Union, a literary and intellectual tradition of extraordinary richness, and an economic and political power at the centre of European life. Italian carries one of the great literary traditions of the Western world, from Dante and Petrarch to twentieth-century novelists and filmmakers, alongside a language spoken by millions across Europe and the world.

English literature rounds the combination with close critical engagement with texts across different periods, genres and national traditions. Studying all three develops linguistic flexibility, cultural depth and critical intelligence in combination.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year full-time MA (Hons) programme includes a year abroad, which is essential to the advanced language development that the degree demands. You will develop German and Italian to a high level of proficiency across speaking, listening, reading and writing, engaging with the literatures, cultures and histories of the German-speaking and Italian-speaking worlds alongside advanced English literary study. German modules at St Andrews allow you to explore the rich cultural heritage of the German-speaking lands, following your own interests across a broad range of options.

The year abroad provides both linguistic immersion and cultural experience that deepens your understanding of these traditions in ways that classroom study alone cannot achieve.

Graduates of this combination go on to careers in translation and interpreting, journalism, international business, diplomacy, the civil service, education, publishing, broadcasting, cultural organisations and European institutions. The combination of linguistic range and critical skill is highly valued by employers with international operations and by organisations working across European contexts. Further study in German, Italian, English literature, comparative literature or translation is an option for those who want to pursue academic or specialist professional paths.