There are lots of benefits to studying a language at the university level. It gives you the ability to immerse yourself more fully in the culture when you travel, and gives you a wider perspective on the ways that languages can vary from one another and express concepts differently. However, if you are thinking. of studying a language at university, it’s only natural that you would want to consider what career paths this would open up for you. So here are some of the things you can do with a modern languages degree once you graduate.
Translation
One of the most popular things to do with a modern languages degree is translation. Contrary to what some believe, AI and Google Translate don’t necessarily mean that translators are out of a job. After all, there are many people out there with documents that need to be translated with the accuracy and care. only a human can provide. These positions range across a variety of fields, including commercial, legal, medical, political and financial industries.
Teaching
Another option you have with a modern languages degree is to go into teaching. You can teach your language of choice to students, or you can travel abroad and teach English as a second language. You may need to take additional courses beyond your degree depending on where you want to teach, but this pathway is often worth the extra effort, since modern languages teachers are in high demand.
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Diplomacy
Working in an embassy can be a very rewarding career path. If you have an interest in foreign affairs and working on issues such as conflict resolution and climate change, this is an excellent way to combine those passions with your language skills.
Interpreting
Often people think of interpreting and translation as interchangeable, but they are very different jobs. Interpretation requires thinking on your feet and maintaining a strong focus. You can specialise in simultaneous, consecutive or liaison interpretation, each of which has different skills required.
Journalism
Your modern languages degree could also lead you to a career in the media. Being able to speak a language and communicate with locals where you’re reporting from can be a huge asset to a news team. Your language skills also lend you to being good at listening, writing, and catching little details — all of which are invaluable in this field.
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