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We live in a multilingual, multicultural world. Only 6% of the world's population speak English as a first language and 75% of the world's population don't speak any English at all. Being able to communicate in more than one language will allow you to become a global citizen and will put you on a par with your multilingual international peers.
To sign up for an IWLP module, visit the how to apply page.
From Stage 1 you will be able to use your language skills to communicate at a survival level. This opens up new opportunities for travel and socialising, as well as allowing you to explore new worlds of television, film and music. Completing higher stages will allow you to engage even more meaningfully with other speakers as you learn to express opinions and ideas in more detail.
Learning a language is not just about being able to speak it; it is also about learning about your own and other cultures and developing your intercultural competence. IWLP classes are open to all students from all degrees and year parts, so you will meet students from across the University. You will learn in a multilingual, multicultural environment where you get to know students and lecturers from different backgrounds, with different attitudes, customs and values, all working together to achieve a common goal.
By adding a language to your programme, you will add variety and interest beyond your main degree modules – in fact, this is one of the most common reasons students enjoy IWLP modules. You will explore different ways of learning and, most important of all, have fun, thanks to both our interesting language content and the engaging classroom environment.
In our interactive, friendly classes you will quickly get to know your fellow students and make new connections beyond your main degree cohort. At higher levels, you may also have the opportunity to network further and engage with native speakers in Reading or abroad. You could also join a student society related to your language and meet even more new people.
IWLP modules equip you with the passion, practical skills, and confidence to continue your language learning journey independently outside of the classroom. You will remain a lifelong language learner, even after you have graduated.
You can also make the most of your Study Abroad experience by taking an IWLP module before you go, just like former students Darcey and Yagmur.
According to the 2021 parliamentary paper Foreign language skills in the workforce, “language skills have also been associated with increased employment opportunities and social mobility”. Employers value language skills for their potential to open up new markets and communicate with customers and clients. You do not necessarily have to be fluent in a foreign language, as many employers look for people with conversational competence.
The ability to communicate in another language also develops a number of skills that are highly rated by lecturers and employers. You will develop your critical thinking and observational skills as well as your ability to gather, analyse and assess information. Language learners are flexible, take risks and are willing to overcome obstacles, and are experienced in effective collaborative work. You will also become more aware of your own language and this will help you to become a more effective communicator.
Don’t just take our word for it – former students Morgan and Esmé both found that their IWLP language influenced their career path after university.
Read our blog series Get to Know the IWLP to learn more about why our students picked our modules and what they gained from the experience.
Read our second blog series Going Places with the IWLP to learn more about a number of students who have gone on to use their IWLP language outside of the University in a range of different ways.