COURSE CURRICULUM

In the first year of the Languages and Intercultural Communication with Business course, students focus on developing proficiency in two chosen languages. They undertake core modules such as Spanish and French for honours students, tailored to various proficiency levels (from Ab Initio to B1), and Japanese language for beginners and continuing learners, with each language stream structured to align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The modules integrate language development with cultural exploration through varied materials like songs, videos, and adverts. Students engage in both written and oral language activities designed to foster communicative competence and autonomous learning, alongside developing teamwork skills through interactive seminars. In the second year, language learning continues with more advanced modules that further refine both receptive and productive language skills while increasing cultural awareness. Modules prepare students for their year abroad, with practical tasks such as summary writing, translation, and exposure to real-life communicative contexts. Alongside this, students choose from a range of non-language specific modules like translation, intercultural communication, and language teaching. The third year is spent abroad in countries where the target languages are spoken. Students can choose to study at partner universities or undertake approved work placements. The aim is full immersion, allowing students to adapt to new cultural and linguistic environments, manage real-life responsibilities abroad, and significantly boost their language proficiency. In the final year, students return to UEA and take high-level language modules focused on professional and academic contexts. They build advanced communicative skills such as negotiation, argumentation, and formal writing, while also applying language to translation, media, and cultural projects. Students may also undertake a dissertation to explore a self-chosen topic in depth. Throughout the course, there is a continuous development of independent study strategies, intercultural awareness, and transferable skills suited to a globalised work environment.