MA European Studies (Double Degree)
The MA European Studies program at the University of Limerick offers a comprehensive ex...
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages
Limerick
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages at the University of Limerick (UL) is designed to provide students with advanced proficiency in multiple languages and a deep understanding of the cultures where these languages are spoken. This program is ideal for students who are passionate about languages and seek to apply their linguistic skills in various professional contexts such as translation, interpretation, international business, or cultural mediation.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages at UL is comprehensive and interdisciplinary. It includes core language courses that enhance proficiency in two or more languages chosen from French, German, Spanish, Irish, Japanese, and Chinese. The program also incorporates modules in linguistics, translation studies, intercultural communication, and language-specific cultural studies. Students engage in language practice through oral and written exercises, as well as immersive experiences such as study abroad programs. Additionally, the curriculum offers elective courses that allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests and career goals, such as media studies, literature, or business communication.
Research Focus: Research is a critical component of the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages program at UL. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various fields including translation and interpreting studies, sociolinguistics, language acquisition, and intercultural communication. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects and can choose to undertake a final-year research dissertation on a topic of their choice. This focus on research helps students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and provides them with opportunities to contribute to the academic community's understanding of language and communication.
Industry Engagement: The University of Limerick emphasizes practical experience and industry engagement in the Applied Languages program. Students have opportunities for internships and work placements in relevant fields such as translation agencies, multinational companies, cultural institutions, and government bodies. These placements provide real-world experience and help students build professional networks. UL also hosts guest lectures and workshops with industry professionals, offering insights into current trends and career opportunities in language-related fields.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is integral to the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages program at UL. The program includes mandatory study abroad experiences, where students spend a semester or more at partner universities in countries where their chosen languages are spoken. This immersion helps students achieve fluency and gain firsthand cultural insights. UL's partnerships with universities worldwide facilitate these exchanges and foster international collaboration. Additionally, the curriculum's focus on intercultural communication and global issues prepares students to work effectively in diverse and multicultural environments.
Location
Limerick
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
€ 16400
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: € 50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with a minimum of 21 in each section.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
- DET: Overall score of 120 with no section score below 110 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
The University of Limerick (UL) is supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, talent, and diverse backgrounds.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UL provides a range of merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, varying from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The university also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to encourage diversity and attract exceptional talent from different parts of the world, providing financial support to deserving candidates.
Sports Scholarships: UL values sporting achievements and offers scholarships to international students who excel in sports. These scholarships support athletes pursuing their academic goals while representing the university in various sporting events.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Languages from the University of Limerick (UL) opens up a diverse array of career opportunities across multiple sectors.
Translator: Graduates can work as translators, converting written material from one language to another. This role is essential in various industries, including legal, medical, technical, and literary fields. Translators must possess strong language skills and cultural knowledge to ensure accurate and contextually appropriate translations.
Interpreter: Interpreters facilitate spoken communication between speakers of different languages. This can be done in settings such as conferences, legal proceedings, healthcare facilities, and business meetings. There are different types of interpreting, including simultaneous, consecutive, and liaison interpreting, each requiring specific skills and training.
Language Teacher: Graduates can pursue careers in education, teaching languages at primary, secondary, or tertiary levels. They can also work as private tutors or instructors in language schools. Teaching positions often require a deep understanding of language pedagogy and effective communication strategies.
Localization Specialist: Localization specialists adapt content, software, websites, and products to meet the linguistic and cultural needs of specific target markets. This role is crucial in the global marketing and software industries, ensuring that products are culturally relevant and user-friendly for different audiences.
International Business Consultant: With proficiency in multiple languages and a deep understanding of intercultural communication, graduates can work as international business consultants. They assist companies in navigating foreign markets, establishing partnerships, and communicating effectively with global clients and stakeholders.
Cultural Mediator: Cultural mediators facilitate communication and understanding between people from different cultural backgrounds. They work in various settings, including community organizations, healthcare, education, and government agencies, helping to resolve conflicts and promote inclusivity.
Tourism and Hospitality Manager: Graduates can work in the tourism and hospitality industry, managing hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and tour operations. Language skills are highly valued in this sector for providing exceptional service to international clients and enhancing their travel experiences.
Journalist or Foreign Correspondent: With strong language skills and cultural awareness, graduates can pursue careers in journalism, reporting on international news and events. Foreign correspondents work for media outlets, providing insights and coverage of global issues from different regions.
Public Relations Specialist: In public relations, language graduates can manage communication campaigns, craft press releases, and build relationships with media and stakeholders. Multilingual PR specialists are particularly valuable in organizations with a global presence, where effective communication in multiple languages is essential.
Diplomat or International Relations Officer: Graduates can work in diplomatic services, representing their country's interests abroad. They engage in negotiations, manage international relations, and promote cultural and economic ties between nations. Language proficiency and cultural understanding are critical in these roles.
Researcher or Academic: Graduates interested in furthering their studies can pursue academic careers, conducting research in linguistics, translation studies, or intercultural communication. They can teach at universities, contribute to scholarly publications, and participate in academic conferences.
Corporate Communication Specialist: In multinational corporations, language graduates can work in corporate communication, developing internal and external communication strategies. They ensure that messages are conveyed effectively across different languages and cultural contexts within the organization.
