Expand+How much will it cost in the Republic of Ireland?
We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spre...

Hide-How much will it cost in the Republic of Ireland?
We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spread the cost.

Fees are paid on a module-by-module basis – you won't have to pay for the whole of your qualification up front.

A qualification comprises a series of modules, each with an individual fee. Added together, they give you the total cost.

Most OU students study part time at a rate of 60 credits a year.

Our current fee for 60 credits is £3,228*.

Our current fee for 120 credits, which is equivalent to a year's full-time study, is £6,456*.

At current prices, the total cost of your qualification would be £12,912*.
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*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2023. Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees.

Additional costs
Study costs
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.

Residential schools
This qualification has one or two compulsory modules (L222, L223, L226) that each include a residential school you must attend. For each school you must pay £313 for accommodation and meals. You’ll pay when you book the residential school, after you’ve enrolled on the module. You must also pay for your travel to and from the venue.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, we may replace face-to-face events with online alternatives. Read the module descriptions for further information.

If you can’t attend the school for reasons beyond your control, you may apply for the online alternative. There’s no additional cost for the online alternative.

Expand+This diploma will equip you to communicate in different languages; develop your cultural understanding; and explore the structure and use of language in different contexts. Starting with a broad grounding in the study of language, you’ll study two ...

Hide-This diploma will equip you to communicate in different languages; develop your cultural understanding; and explore the structure and use of language in different contexts. Starting with a broad grounding in the study of language, you’ll study two modern languages – from French, German and Spanish – or combine one of them with English. By the end of your studies, you’ll be able to engage successfully in a variety of linguistic environments – opening doors to other cultures and communities, and to exciting career opportunities.

Key features of the course

Develops you into an independent user (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages level B2) of at least one modern language

Develops knowledge of the cultures that use your chosen languages

Extends your competence in intercultural communication

Allows you to understand how language is structured and used in different contexts

Offers the option of a week in France, Germany and/or Spain (or online alternative)

Expand+This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

In Stage 1, you’ll study a compulsory 30-credit or 60-credit module, depending on if you choose to combine English language studies with a modern language or choose two modern langu...

Hide-This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

In Stage 1, you’ll study a compulsory 30-credit or 60-credit module, depending on if you choose to combine English language studies with a modern language or choose two modern languages. You’ll choose your remaining 90 or 60 credits from a range of language modules.

In Stage 2, you’ll study a 60-credit module in each of your chosen subjects/languages.

Your chosen route will be a combination of two subjects: either English language studies with a modern language (French, German or Spanish) OR two of these modern languages.

You have two options for completing the different stages of your study:

Study both subjects at the same time, working through Stages 1 and 2 in order.

Study one subject first, completing these subject modules at each Stage, then repeating the route for your second subject.

See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.

Expand+Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

Knowledge and understanding.
Cognitive skills.
Practical and professional skills.
Key skills.

The level and depth of your learning grad...

Hide-Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

Knowledge and understanding.
Cognitive skills.
Practical and professional skills.
Key skills.

The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Expand+Skills for career development
By the end of your studies, you’ll be a competent communicator in another language with an awareness of cultural differences and similarities – attributes that are particularly valuable in an environment of increasi...

Hide-Skills for career development
By the end of your studies, you’ll be a competent communicator in another language with an awareness of cultural differences and similarities – attributes that are particularly valuable in an environment of increasing international contact. If you learn about English alongside another language, your study of its structure, history, and place in societies and cultures will greatly enrich and develop your understanding of all aspects of communication.

Certain skills flow directly from your studies like translation, effective communication in more than one language, the ability to compose and analyse a range of texts, and the ability to work well with members of other cultures and communities. You’ll also develop a broad set of employability skills, including the ability to:

plan, organise and prioritise your work and motivate yourself when working both independently and as part of a team

understand contemporary global issues and appreciate cultural diversity

draw together, analyse and critically evaluate information

use your knowledge about how language works in a range of settings

communicate effectively, clearly and accurately with others

put together reasoned arguments and question assumptions

use information and communication technology (ICT) effectively

analyse data and undertake research using a range of methods.

Career relevance
Languages are central to some professions, such as translating, interpreting and teaching. They are also a key asset in the diplomatic service, tourism and international business and administration. This diploma will take your language skills to a high level.

Other careers
Language skills are also highly valued in a range of other sectors. Surveys indicate that employers place a premium on the ability to make contact and communicate with global trade partners and to understand overseas business environments and that they often acknowledge this with higher salaries. The languages most in demand in UK industry are French, German, Spanish and Mandarin.

Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.