Economics and Modern Languages & Cultures BA

2024-25 entry
School of Languages and Cultures
Department of Economics

Combining economics with modern languages and cultures gives your degree a truly global focus. Develop the practical skills an economist needs, including statistical and quantitative methods, and advanced economic analysis. Get a solid grounding in modern economic theory and how to apply it, and you'll explore current debates on economic policy.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    A student listening to a lecture - image

    Become a specialist in the application of rigorous quantitative and analytical skills to economic policy - while developing your chosen language or languages.

    Combine the study of economics with the study of modern languages and cultures, and graduate with a wealth of global career opportunities in economic and related fields.

    Receive economics training in advanced methods, particularly mathematical and statistical, and apply these methods, and your knowledge of economics, to a variety of real world problems.

    Choosing between one or two languages, you’ll develop highly valuable language skills, and a sophisticated understanding of the countries where your chosen language or languages are spoken. Prepare to leave this course as a graduate with highly sought after language and economic skills, and cultural awareness.

    Why study this course?

    • Combine the study of economics with one or two languages - choose from 10 languages (German, French, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Czech, Catalan, Italian, and Luxembourgish) to take your economic skills global.
    • Spend a year abroad - the year abroad in third year enables you to immerse yourself in the language, culture and society of the language or languages you study.
    • Variety, choice and flexibility - from a broad grounding in economic theory and analysis, this course allows you to specialise in your area of interest.

    Dual and combined honours degrees

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    • You can find a comprehensive list of all of our languages and cultures modules broken down by language on the School of Languages and Cultures website
    • Examples of the economics modules on offer are listed below
    Title: Economics and Modern Languages & Cultures BA course structure
    UCAS code: RL50
    Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
    First year

    Core economics modules:

    Economic Analysis and Policy

    This is a compulsory module for all single and dual honours students in Economics. The module provides students with an introduction to microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis together with examples of their application in order to develop students' understanding of the roles of both in economic policy making.

    40 credits

    Optional economics modules - one of:

    Mathematical Methods for Economics 1

    The aims of this module are: 1. To give an insight into the importance of mathematical methods in economic analysis. 2. To introduce a range of mathematical techniques. 3. To give an understanding of how and when to apply the techniques. The module will include revision of basic concepts, algebra, equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, differential calculus, optimisation, geometry

    20 credits
    Mathematical Methods for Economics 2

    The aims of this module are to introduce mathematical skills that are essential for problem solving in economics and used throughout the degree programme. The module will provide an insight into the importance of mathematical methods in economics, and to study the key mathematical concepts widely applied in modern economics.

    20 credits

    You will choose from a wide range of optional modules in modern languages and cultures.

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    You'll learn through a mix of lectures, seminars and language classes. Language teaching is in small groups, so you'll get plenty of tailored support and will get to know your tutors well.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    We use a range of assessment methods during your course. In the language programme you will be given regular homework assignments and take a mix of coursework and exam assessments at appropriate points over the academic year. You will be assessed on the core skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Our assessment methods vary across our courses and include taking sit-down exams, developing a portfolio, writing essays, taking part in group projects or giving individual presentations.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    typically including a modern foreign language

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB, typically including a modern foreign language + B in the EPQ; ABB, typically including a modern foreign language + A in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34, typically with 5 in a Higher Level modern foreign language
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject + an appropriate modern foreign language qualification
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A at A Level typically in a modern foreign language
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + B typically in a modern foreign language
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA, typically including a modern foreign language
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • If you are not studying a modern foreign language, the department will consider other evidence of aptitude for language learning (such as a languages GCSE at grade 6/B, or an English language qualification for non-native speakers of English)

    • GCSE Maths grade 6/B

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB
    typically including a modern foreign language

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB, typically including a modern foreign language + B in the EPQ; ABB, typically including a modern foreign language + A in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    33, typically with 5 in a Higher Level modern foreign language
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject + an appropriate modern foreign language qualification
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + B at A Level typically in a modern foreign language
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AABBB + B typically in a modern foreign language
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB, typically including a modern foreign language
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • If you are not studying a modern foreign language, the department will consider other evidence of aptitude for language learning (such as a languages GCSE at grade 6/B, or an English language qualification for non-native speakers of English)

    • GCSE Maths grade 6/B

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    Our graduates are excellent communicators, adaptable and culturally aware.

    They work in international development organisations, business and banking, translating and interpreting, intelligence services, journalism, teaching, publishing, and international sales and marketing, banking, ‭insurance, accountancy, sales and marketing, and ‭retail management and professional economists in government, industry or the City.

    Recent graduates are now working for the Bank of England, HM Treasury, the European Parliament, PwC, Deloitte, IBM and Rolls Royce. Some prefer to advance their knowledge by studying at postgraduate level.

    John Student Profile

    Working in the humanitarian sector, being a linguist is indispensable

    John BA Modern Languages & Cultures

    John completed a BA that included Spanish and Portuguese

    School of Languages and Cultures

    At the School of Languages and Cultures you'll develop your linguistic skills to a very high level and deepen your understanding of the cultural context of the countries where your languages are spoken.

    We offer a particularly wide range of languages - Catalan, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Luxembourgish, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

    Right from the start, you'll work with the school's top specialists and native speakers who will help you realise your linguistic potential. Language teaching is in small groups, so you'll get plenty of support tailored to your needs and get to know your tutors well.

    We're a leading centre for modern languages and cultures research. Our work spans identity, gender, linguistics, politics, migration and literary studies. This research informs our teaching, helping you to develop a global understanding of language and languages across cultures and countries.

    You'll be able to study optional modules either in your individual languages, or across the school so you'll acquire an in-depth understanding of your chosen languages and their cultures, and how they relate to other languages and cultures across modern languages disciplines.

    Our student-run language societies organise multilingual events, trips and creative projects. There are opportunities to volunteer in the community and in schools, inspiring others to try new languages.

    School of Languages and Cultures students are based in the Jessop West building at the heart of the University campus, close to the Diamond and the Information Commons. We share the Jessop West Building with the Department of History and the School of English.

    School of Languages and Cultures

    Department of Economics

    We have an international reputation for practical and real-world economics.

    You'll be taught by some of the top economic experts in their field and you'll receive the latest cutting-edge teaching from people who care passionately about their subject.

    Our staff advise government departments in the UK such as the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Education, as well as advisory bodies such as the Low Pay Commission. Their research helps shape government policies and aims to improve people's lives. This research also informs what you will be taught in your modules.

    The Department of Economics is based in Elmfield building, close to The Wave, the new home for the Faculty of Social Sciences. The Wave features state-of-the-art collaborative lecture theatres, study spaces and seminar rooms.

    Teaching may take place in Elmfield, The Wave, or in other buildings across campus, many of which are close together so it’s easy to walk between them and it’s a great way to get to know the city. You will also be close to our Students' Union and central libraries.

    Facilities

    Our state-of-the-art classrooms are in the same building as our staff offices. You'll also have your own social space with computer access.

    Department of Economics

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report

    Department of Economics

    94% of economics students who graduated in 2020 were in employment or further study 15 months after leaving university

    2020-21 Graduate Outcomes Survey, UK undergraduates

    Student profiles

    Georgina

    A languages degree has given me various transferable skills as well huge confidence in public speaking

    Georgina BA Modern Languages & Cultures

    Georgina studied Spanish, Portuguese and Italian as part of the BA Modern Languages & Cultures

    Photo of economics students Arinola Lawal

    My placement year helped to build my confidence

    Arinola Lawal BA Economics with Employment Experience

    Arinola did a placement year working as a Junior Commercial Manager at IBM in Manchester.

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Combining economics with modern languages and cultures gives your degree a truly global focus. Develop the practical skills an economist needs, including statistical and quantitative methods, and advanced economic analysis. Get a solid grounding in modern economic theory and how to apply it, and you'll explore current debates on economic policy.