The Value of Studying Modern Languages

The Value of Studying Modern Languages: A Journey from University to Career

In recent years, the study of Modern Languages at university has seen a decline. This trend can be attributed to the decreasing emphasis on language learning in schools and the growing importance of financial stability in career choices. Parents and educators often steer students towards subjects like Medicine and Engineering, which have clear career pathways as doctors or engineers. In contrast, Modern Languages does not have a specific career directly linked to it, leading some to perceive it as less beneficial. However, as someone who transitioned from a Modern Languages graduate to a fulfilling career, I can attest to the myriad opportunities this field offers.

The Decline in Modern Language Studies

The decline in students choosing Modern Languages is a concerning trend. Fewer students are exposed to languages in school. For example, both French and German have declined drastically in schools with 280,000 students studying French at GCSE in 2000 compared to only 50,000 in 2023. There is also a pressure to pursue degrees with direct job links further diminishing interest in Modern Languages. Yet, this perspective overlooks the diverse and valuable skills that language studies impart. Proficiency in another language fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and communication skills, all of which are highly transferable and sought after in the global job market.

My Journey: From Graduation to Career

When I decided to study Modern Languages (French, German and Chinese Mandarin) at university, I faced scepticism from family and friends. They questioned the practicality of my choice, concerned about my future job prospects. Despite these concerns, I was passionate about languages and convinced of their value. My university experience was enriching, providing me with a deep understanding of different cultures, histories, and global perspectives. It also gave me the chance to study abroad in numerous foreign countries, thus allowing me to experience a different culture.

Upon graduating, the path to a career wasn’t as straightforward as it might be for graduates in more vocational fields. This is because there is not a direct job linked to this degree. However, I quickly realised the skills I had gained were versatile and highly marketable and there is a variety of sectors where my skills will be useful. I believe the decline in Modern Languages in schools and at universities, whilst alarming, has been beneficial to my job prospects. This is because both French and German are in drastic decline at universities. In 2023 only 3,500 students were studying French compared to 15,000 in 2000. However, the number of students studying Spanish has increased from 7000 in 2000 to 11,600 in 2023. Therefore, by choosing to study less popular languages at universities, I am at a greater advantage when applying for jobs as having language skills to a high level in French and German is becoming increasingly rare, whereas speaking Spanish is becoming more common. When graduating I was the only student who studied French, German and Chinese Mandarin highlighting the lacking appetite to study these languages in the UK.

I decided to undertake a career in project management in the translation industry due to my interest in translation although there are still many careers where I can apply my language skills.

The most obvious careers for language graduates are language teachers. Being a languages teacher allows language enthusiasts to pass on their thirst for knowledge to the next generation. This career path is in high demand given the lack of language graduates. Another career which is directly linked to languages is the role of a translator or interpreter.

However, whilst these roles are the occupations most people think language graduates can do once graduating, there is a variety of other suitable roles. Language graduates can pursue roles in journalism and the media. For example, many well-known newsreaders and presenters at the BBC have studied languages such as Fiona Bruce and Sophie Raworth. Furthermore, studying languages is ideal for roles in the civil service and for security agencies such as GCHQ and MI5 as these jobs require language speakers to help protect the country from international threats. Moreover, working in international business is suitable for language graduates as businesses need employees who can engage with international customers and partners to improve their global business in an ever-globalised world.

The Versatility of a Modern Languages Degree

The career trajectory outlined above illustrates the versatility of a Modern Languages degree. While it may not have a single, clear-cut career path, the opportunities it opens are broad and varied. Language graduates can find fulfilling roles in translation, teaching, international business, diplomacy, tourism, and many other fields. Moreover, the skills developed – such as adaptability, communication, and cultural awareness—are invaluable in today’s interconnected world.

Conclusion

While the decline in the study of Modern Languages is concerning, it is crucial to recognise the significant value these studies offer. A Modern Languages degree equips students with versatile skills that are highly prized in numerous career fields. My own journey from a Modern Languages graduate to a project manager at The Word Hub highlights the opportunities available. Encouraging young people to pursue their passion for languages can lead to rewarding and impactful careers, even if the path is not as linear as more vocational disciplines.