Bachelor's Programme in Languages, 180 cr

Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree, you will:

• have the ability to communicate in your chosen language both orally and in writing in different contexts
• be familiar with the fundamental theories and key concepts in your field and have the ability to apply your knowledge to analyse spoken and written language
• have the ability to analyse the structure of your chosen language and be familiar with the related terms and concepts
• be able to analyse the meanings conveyed through language and the use of language in different types of texts and communicative contexts
• understand the regional, temporal and contextual variation of language and multilingual phenomena
• be familiar with the main directions for research in your field and have the ability to follow their development
• be familiar with the key research methods for carrying out language, literature, cultural or translation studies and have the ability to apply your knowledge for the purpose of scientific inquiry
• have an in-depth understanding of the culture(s) and society of the countries where your chosen language is spoken
• be familiar with digital resources and information technologies
• be familiar with the principles of scientific thinking and scholarly activity
• understand the key principles of scientific integrity and research ethics
• have an understanding of the research process and the ability to plan and carry out a small-scale research study in accordance with the principles of good scientific practice
• have the ability to generate, critically assess and apply scientific knowledge to address research questions in your field
• have the ability to communicate research findings to scientific and non-scientific audiences
• have the ability to assess spoken and written texts
• possess a command of Finnish and Swedish that meets the language proficiency requirements for state personnel under the Act on the Knowledge of Languages Required of Personnel in Public Bodies (424/2006, Section 6) and that is necessary for success in your future professional role
• possess sufficient proficiency in at least one foreign language so as to be able to follow the development of your field and work in an international environment as well as be familiar with the principles of teamwork and have the ability to work in a team

Language and texts are more than just means of communication as they shape our perception of reality and maintain, perpetuate and challenge existing power relations and hierarchies. Students who complete the Degree Programme in Languages are well-rounded language professionals who are prepared for challenging careers in both Finland and abroad that require an in-depth understanding of languages and cultures, strong international skills and advanced competencies in cultural awareness. The programme explores language and texts as preconditions for the existence and functioning of society and societal institutions.

The specialisations available in the Bachelor’s Programme in Languages are English, Nordic languages, German, Finnish and Russian. You will also be able to study, for example, French and Spanish.

Our students attend not only courses that focus on their chosen language and the culture of the countries where it is spoken but also general courses that delve into the theoretical foundations and research methods applied to the scientific study of linguistics, translations and cultures. The broad-ranging Degree Programme in Languages offers you the opportunity to join a unique and internationally attractive community of professionals and develop expertise that has special relevance for modern life in our media-rich information society. In line with Tampere University’s strong societal focus, the programme places special emphasis on the importance of language in society and on language as a means of communication. The programme produces well-rounded language and communication experts who go on to pursue diverse careers, among others things, in education, industry and business, different associations and public administration.

The Bachelor’s Programme in Languages will provide you with a solid grounding in linguistic phenomena. The programme will initially focus on the structure, meaning and usage of language but – as students make progress towards their degree – this focus will shift to include, for example, linguistic variation, interaction and the evolution of language. You will also become familiar with the research methods used to carry out linguistic, literature, cultural and translation studies. The programme has a strong international dimension, and you will have the opportunity to seek international experience, for example, by spending an exchange period abroad.

Upon graduation with a bachelor's degree, you will be eligible to continue your studies towards a master’s degree either in our Master’s Programme in Languages or our Master’s Programme in Multilingual Communication and Translation Studies. These master’s programmes will allow you to expand your breadth and depth of knowledge and develop not only an in-depth understanding of your chosen specialisation but also the skills needed to undertake research. To support students as they seek further specialisation, we offer a range of thematic options: Professional and Science Communication, Digitality and Media, and Linguistic and Cultural Interaction.