With this innovative course, you will study two languages, with the option to explore a third at Beginner’s Level in your first year. Your language options on this course are Gaeilge, French, Spanish, German or Italian. You will develop advanced linguistic skills through small, interactive classes led by native speakers, ensuring fluency and confidence. But this degree goes beyond language acquisition—you will dive into Linguistics, Translation Studies, and Media, gaining the tools to understand how language shapes our world. You will also explore literature and cultural expressions in your chosen languages, broadening your global perspective.

Year 1:
You have the option of taking two languages with Global Language Studies, or alternatively you can choose three languages.

Pathway A	Pathway B
Language 1 (20 ECTS)	Language 1 (20 ECTS)
Language 2 (20 ECTS)	Language 2 (20 ECTS)
Global Language Studies (20 ECTS)	Language 3 (20 ECTS)

All students must take at least one language at post-Leaving Certificate level, or equivalent. We recommend that students taking three languages take no more than one at Beginner level.

Global Language Studies

There are 3 core modules and 2 optional modules in first year

Module Title	Code	Semester	ECTS
Skills for Language Learning	GLSK1100	1& 2	5
Europe in Cinema	GL1102	1	5
Introduction to Translation	GL1101	2	5
Written Words and Spoken Languages in the Ancient World (Optional)	CC114	1&2	5
An Introduction to Chinese Language & Culture 1 (Optional)	CI1100	1&2	5

Year 2:

You will take one major language and one minor language with Global Language Studies, or you have the option of taking one major and two minor languages.

Pathway A	Pathway B
Language 1 (20 ECTS)	Language 1 (20 ECTS)
Language 2 (20 ECTS)	Language 2 (20 ECTS)
Global Language Studies (20 ECTS)	Language 3 (20 ECTS)

Global Language Studies

There are 3 core modules in second year

Module Title	Code	Semester	ECTS
Media and Sociocultural Representation in Europe	GL2100	1 & 2	5
Translation in the World: Skills and Concepts	GL2101	2	5
Introduction to Linguistics	GL2102	1	5

 Year 3:

Year 3 of the the BA (Global Languages) course is a structured year of mandatory immersion in the target languages. Students taking Gaeilge as one of their languages will spend one semester in the Gaeltacht, and one semester on Erasmus in one of the countries of their other language. Students taking two European  languages will take one of the following routes:

• Academic year on Erasmus in one of the language areas (and minimum of 12 weeks in the other language area).
• One Semester on Erasmus in each of the language areas.
• Work placement as Language Assistant for a year in one of the language areas (and minimum of 12 weeks in the other language area).

Year 4:

In Year four of the BA (Global Languages) students will continue to major in their primary Language (30 ECTS) and either continue their two Language minors or one Language Minor and a minor in Professional Skills modules.

Pathway A	Pathway B
Language 1 (30 ECTS)	Language 1 (30 ECTS)
Language 2 (15 ECTS)	Language 2 (15 ECTS)
Global Language Studies (15 ECTS)	Language 3 (15 ECTS)

Modules in final year will allow students to consolidate their specialism in Media, Technology, Linguistics or Translation through research projects and practice-based modules.

 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

Please see detailed breakdown on course curriculum for each year of study. 

• You have the option of a full year of study abroad or an opportunity to combine study abroad with a work placement.
• This is more than a degree—it’s your gateway to a world of opportunities in international business, translation, diplomacy, media, and beyond.
• We offer short introductory courses in Chinese and Latin modules, giving you an even greater linguistic edge.
• You can chose minors in a range of language-related fields like translation and linguistics, media and technology, and literature and culture.

A degree in Global Languages opens doors to exciting careers all over the world—especially in Europe. Many graduates go on to work for EU institutions, where they use their language skills in areas like translation, interpretation, policy-making, and administration. Others find jobs in diplomacy, international media, multinational companies, and teaching. If you love languages and want a career that could take you across Europe (or beyond), this degree is the perfect first step.

By studying Global Languages, you’ll develop valuable skills that employers are looking for, including:

• Fluent multilingual communication—perfect for careers in the EU and beyond.
• Intercultural awareness—understanding different cultures and how to work with them.
• Digital skills—including professional translation tools used in top industries.
• Critical thinking—solving problems and thinking outside the box.
• Creativity—using language in new and innovative ways.
• Teamwork—collaborating with people from all over the world.
• No matter what path you choose, this degree gives you the skills to succeed in a global career.

 

Your Year Abroad – Live the Language!

In your third year, you’ll spend a full year immersed in your chosen languages, gaining real-world experience while studying or working abroad. This is your chance to boost your language skills, explore new cultures, and grow in confidence—all while living in another country!

• If you’re studying Gaeilge, you’ll spend one semester in the Gaeltacht and the other on Erasmus, studying in a country where your second language is spoken.
• If you’re studying two European languages, you can choose from these options:
• • Spend a full academic year on Erasmus in one country, plus at least 12 weeks in the other.
  • Split the year between one semester in each country on Erasmus.
  • Work as a Language Assistant for a year in one country, with at least 12 weeks in the other.

Why This Year Will Change Your Life

By the end of your year abroad, you’ll:

• Speak with confidence – improve your fluency in real-life situations.
• Get a deeper understanding of different cultures – and see the world from a new perspective.
• Learn how to learn languages – and become more independent in your studies.
• Gain life skills – from navigating a new city to making international friends.
• Discover more about yourself – and how your own culture fits into the bigger picture.

This year is all about adventure, independence, and setting yourself up for an exciting global career. Are you ready?

• As part of your third year, you have the option to spend a full year working abroad in a country where one of your chosen languages is spoken. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in everyday language use, gain professional experience, and boost your career prospects.
• One of the most popular work placements is as a Language Assistant in a school, where you'll help students learn English while improving your own fluency in the local language. 
• During your placement, you'll still have the chance to spend a minimum of 12 weeks in a second country, ensuring you develop strong skills in both of your chosen languages.
• If you're looking for an exciting, hands-on way to improve your language skills while getting a taste of working life abroad, the work placement option is the perfect choice.

• Dr  Sara-Louise Cooper
• Dr Pilar Alderete Diez
• Dr Marie Blom 
• Dr Ornaith Rodgers
• Dr Catherine Emerson
• Dr Ivan Kenny  
• Mlle Sylvie Mossay 
• Dr Lindsay Myers
• Dr Máire Aine Ní Mhainnín
• Dr Tina Pusse
• Dr Maura Stewart

The BA in Global Languages is designed to develop students' proficiency in multiple languages while fostering cultural awareness, critical thinking and analytical skills. The learning experience is dynamic, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare students for global careers.

How Students Learn

1. Language Immersion – Students engage in intensive language study through interactive classes, multimedia resources and conversation practice with native speakers.
2. Cultural Studies – Modules on literature, film, history and society help students understand the cultures associated with their chosen languages.
3. ERASMUS – A year abroad, allowing students to experience full language immersion and cultural exchange.
4. Interdisciplinary Approach – Integrate translation studies, linguistics, translation technology, intralingual subtitling, broadening career opportunities.
5. Technology-Enhanced Learning – Online tools, language labs, subtitling software and AI-driven applications support independent learning.

How Students Are Assessed

1. Continuous Assessment – Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests, and language exercises. Students receive regular (weekly) feedback on their progress. (30%)
2. Examinations –  Written exams will take place before Christmas and in May. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension and communication. Final Examination accounts for (50%)
3. Oral Assessments – Students participate in debates, interviews and presentations to test fluency and pronunciation. (10%)
4. Project Work – Research and subtitling projects, translation assignments allow students to apply their skills in real-world contexts. (10%)
5. The year abroad in Year 3 is assessed entirely on a pass/fail basis. Students generally attain 45 credits across the academic year in two countries.

Minimum of Grade H5 in two subjects  and a minimum of a H4 in a modern European language other than Irish and English and a passes in three other subjects at 06/H7  in the Leaving Certificate, including English.

Alternative Pathways

The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:

 QQI/FET/FETAC Places

• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme

 Other Qualifications

If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:

•  A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students
• EU students

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.

Admissions Office

Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.

 

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants

Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.

Mature Applicants

Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants

Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements,  

 

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
	All	€3,076	€3,000	€20,500	€140	€3,140	€6,216	€20,640

• Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
• If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000 on your behalf. 
• The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI
• Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to EU fees and non-EU fees.
• You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.

High-achieving undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for a range of prestigious scholarships that recognise academic excellence and support students in reaching their full potential. Click here for further Information.

Application Process

Students applying for full undergraduate degree courses from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply online via Apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1^st October each year for each the following September.  

Further Information

Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.