Modern Languages and Business BA

Course overview

By studying Modern Languages and Business at Leeds, you’ll graduate ready to thrive in international organisations and crosscultural environments. You’ll be equipped with the language abilities, cultural understanding, and business insight that employers truly value.

Why choose this degree?

If you’re excited by the idea of becoming fluent in another language and understanding how businesses succeed in a global marketplace, this fouryear degree gives you the perfect combination of skills and experiences. You’ll develop strong business knowledge, gain cultural insight, and spend a transformative year abroad - preparing you for a truly international career.

A powerful combination: language + business

At Leeds, you can pair Business with one of 10 world languages, studying at either beginner or advanced level. Throughout the degree you will:

• Build expertise in management, leadership, and organisational behaviour
• Explore how companies operate across cultures and international markets
• Develop advanced proficiency in your chosen language
• Grow your understanding of the societies, histories, and cultures where that language is spoken

Whether you arrive as a beginner or a competent speaker, our intensive teaching will support you in reaching a professional standard of fluency.

Why study at Leeds

• Study two academic subjects in one degree, pursuing your interests in business with a global and intercultural outlook through studying a language and its cultures.
• Develop personal independence and adaptability with an integrated Year Abroad in a culture whose language you're learning
• Gain practical business experience by completing a work placement as part of your year abroad
• Prepare for your future with careers and employability support.

Your year abroad

Your third year is spent living, studying, or working in a country where your language is spoken. It’s your chance to:

• Immerse yourself in a new culture
• Strengthen your language confidence
• Gain real-world experience in an international environment
• Build connections and insights that will set you apart in the job market

Many students describe it as the most memorable and life-changing part of their degree.

Choose your language

Study one of the following at beginner or advanced level:

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Thai

If you have prior knowledge of Arabic or Thai, please contact us before applying.

Remember to include your chosen language in the 'Further details' section of your UCAS application.

The international outlook and knowledge you develop alongside advanced language skills will allow you to consider career options in a range of fields when you graduate.

Specialist facilities

With a variety of specialist facilities and four libraries on campus, you’ll find plenty of space for study, group work, and research.

The Language Centre includes digital language labs, audio/video practice booths and Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). The Language Zone offers excellent learning material in more than 50 languages, including online resources and advice. The Language Exchange and the Language Groups programme provide opportunities to practice with other learners and native speakers. You can also volunteer to help other learners and enhance your CV at the same time.

The world-class Brotherton Library is home to a wide variety of manuscripts, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. These include rare copies of magazines and unpublished letters with materials across the range of languages that we teach, from medieval Latin to the Leeds Russian Archive. Our main library resources are also excellent, and the University Library offers a comprehensive training programme to help you make the most of them.

Course details and modules

On this joint honours degree, you’ll bring together two powerful areas: business and your chosen language. From day one, you’ll develop the core academic and research skills you need to understand how businesses work and how global markets operate.

As you progress through the course, you’ll dig deeper into subjects such as management, leadership, organisational behaviour, and the international economic environment, building the confidence and knowhow to thrive in a global setting.

Grow your language skills

Whether you arrive as a complete beginner or an experienced learner, you’ll work towards reaching a professional level of fluency.

• Beginners quickly build strong foundations through intensive compulsory language modules.
• Advanced learners consolidate what they already know and broaden their capabilities through higher level study.

Alongside language training, you’ll explore the cultures and societies where your language is spoken. Choose from topics such as cinema, popular culture, history, and politics, literature to shape a learning experience that reflects your interests.

Your year abroad

In your third year, you’ll spend up to 12 months living, studying, or working in a country where your language is spoken. This is your chance to immerse yourself in local life, strengthen your fluency, and gain real international experience that employers value.

Shape your final year

In your final year, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your studies to your goals. You can complete a Final Year Project in business, in your chosen language, or create a combined project that brings both areas together. You’ll also have the option to choose from specialist modules such as translation, interpreting, or languages for business to deepen your expertise.

Course Structure

These pages represent typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Every student takes compulsory weekly classes in their chosen language and a selection of compulsory and optional modules in business. They also take further modules in culture and society.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

If you study your language from beginners level: you take two intensive language modules (40 credits)

If you study your language with prior knowledge: you study one or two language modules (depending on your language) (20 or 40 credits)

An introductory module to the culture and history of the countries and societies where your chosen language is spoken (20 credits)

Principles of International Business (20 credits) - This module provides you with a foundation in the theory and practice of international business. It covers core concepts of international business and how these apply to the dynamics and constraints of international business strategy.

Behaviour in Organisations (10 credits) - This module introduces you to the key concepts relating to people's behaviour within organisations. It will consider individual behaviour, small group processes and wide-scale organisational systems.

Introduction to Enterprise and Entrepreneurship (10 credits) - This module introduces key ideas, concepts and practices in the field of Entrepreneurship.

Intercultural Competence: Theory and Application (20 credits) - This module brings the two subjects you’re studying together to help you make meaningful connections between them. You develop your intercultural competence by exploring the role of languages and cultures in business and beyond.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

If you study French, German, Italian, Spanish or Portuguese: You will study one language module (20 credits)

If you study Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian or Thai: You will study two language modules (40 credits)

Management Research and Analysis (20 credits) - This module aims to equip students with a variety of practical skills in research design, methods, and analysis, both quantitative and qualitative.

Managing Operations, Supply Chains and Digital Technologies (20 credits) - Operations and supply chain management is vital to an organisation’s competitiveness. You will explore key issues in operations and supply chain management and understand how digital technologies could be used and their applications and impact on organisations.

Contemporary Topics in International Business (10 credits) - You will explore key global developments and trends and locate them within the field of international business.

The International Economic Environment (10 credits) - You will analyse changes in the international economic environment as a result of the ongoing globalization of markets. It considers the economic implications of the increasing interdependence of countries and examines international trade and foreign direct investment.

For some language subjects, you will study an additional compulsory module that focusses on culture and society in the countries where your chosen language is spoken.

Optional modules

Optional modules in your language subject may include modules on contemporary society, film, translation, literature.

Find out more information on typical modules for the different language combinations of this course.

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Thai

You may also study optional modules that explore languages and cultures beyond your chosen language:

• Global Queer Politics and Culture - (20 credits)
• Social Class across Cultures - (20 credits)
• Black Europe - (20 credits)
• Global Environmental Humanities - (20 credits)
• Languages in Action - (20 credits)

Year 3

You will spend your third year abroad in a country where your chosen language is spoken.

You will either study abroad or complete a work placement. Options vary between the languages.

Year 4

Advanced language module in your chosen language (20 credits)

Business Ethics (20 credits) - You will engage with and analyse a range of ethical principles and values, and consider how these shape and inform business practice through the use of real life case studies. 

Managing Social Media and Digital Work (20 credits) - You will develop the knowledge and digital skills needed for the workplace. Students will learn how to develop strategies to identify and assess different social media platforms, build an online presence, engage audiences and measure the success of social media content and campaigns. 

A Final Year Project (either in Business or your chosen language) (40 credits) - You will research in a depth a topic of your choice with the help of a supervisor.

Optional modules

You will study one module from a range of options. If you take your Final Year Project in Business, your optional module must be from your language subject.

Find out more information on typical modules for the different language combinations of this course.

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Thai

Learning and teaching

Our teaching combines academic expertise with innovative, inclusive methods. You will benefit from:

• Lectures, seminars, workshops and smallgroup tutorials
• Engaging activities such as group presentations, flipped learning and digital resources
• Supportive formative assessments that help you grow in confidence
• A final-year project in business, languages, or an interdisciplinary topic that bridges both areas

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We are creative in our approach to assessment and always use it to support your independent learning. We use a wide range of methods including essays, exams, presentations, podcasts, literature reviews, reflective logs, and group projects.

Assessments are designed to deliver the transferable skills needed for the world of work. Task-based activities are designed to evidence critical thinking, demonstrate initiative, and show knowledge of a range of relevant subjects and sources.

Support for assessments is integrated into our teaching, and you'll usually have the opportunity for formative assessments that allow you to practice your skills and do well in your formal assessments. We also run extra classes on skills such as public speaking, structuring essays and exam technique that you’ll be able to attend throughout your time at Leeds.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

• Where a post-A level language route is taken, a B grade in the relevant language is required

• Where any other beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.

GCSE: Maths grade 5/B is required.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds: BBB and pass Access to Leeds.

Extended project and Access to Leeds offer: BCC at A Level and A in a relevant EPQ and pass Access to Leeds.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information. lifelonglearning@leeds.ac.uk

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

You need to tell us your language combination when you apply. Input your chosen language in the Further Details section on your UCAS application.

Read our guidance about applying.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

Contact us

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies Undergraduate Admissions

Email: lcsug@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

By taking this joint honours course, you’ll gain proficiency in one of the world’s languages and gain a broad understanding of key managerial functions. You’ll acquire the language and professional skills to prepare you for an international career in a wide range of sectors.

As well as demonstrating that you’re intellectually versatile, this course will equip you with a wide range of transferrable skills that employers value such as:

• Research critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions.
• Communication skills, enabling you to defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing.
• Strong organisational skills and the confidence to work independently or in a team.
• A deep understanding of cultural diversity, allowing you to work effectively with people whose backgrounds differ from yours.

Leeds graduates have pursued careers across the globe and in a range of sectors including education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service, business and finance and the charity sector. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study, including further training in language-based careers such as translating and interpreting.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Study abroad and work placements

Your residence abroad is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture while sharpening and refining your language skills every day. For many of our students, it’s the highlight of their degree.

Your Year Abroad will be your third year of study, when you’ll spend up to a year in a country where your chosen language is spoken.

Your year abroad opportunities will depend on your chosen language. Depending on your host country, you may be able to complete a work placement, work as a Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) for the British Council, or study at a partner university. You may also be able to combine a work placement and a study placement.

If you are studying French, German, Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish, you may be able to study or work in a country where one of these languages is spoken. If you are studying Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or Thai, you will be studying an intensive language course.