Philosophy and Modern Languages brings together some of the most important approaches to understanding language, literature and ideas.

The study of philosophy develops analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically. It allows you to apply these skills to questions ranging from how we acquire knowledge and form moral judgements to the nature of language, art and literature. Since many works of literature are shaped by the dominant philosophical ideas of their epoch, study of philosophy can illuminate that intellectual background.

The study of a modern European language develops analytical and critical abilities as well as linguistic skills to a high level; the study of the literature written in that language contributes to an understanding of many aspects of European culture. It develops attention to stylistic and terminological detail and rhetorical strategies, and sensitivity to cultural and historical context, which are also of great value to the study of philosophy.

Studying these two disciplines in parallel has numerous advantages and affords students greater insights into each.

The Philosophy Faculty is the largest philosophy department in the UK, and one of the largest in the world, admitting around 450 undergraduates annually to read the various degrees involving Philosophy. Many faculty members have a worldwide reputation, and our library and other facilities are acknowledged as among the best in the country.

Oxford’s Modern Languages Faculty is one of the largest in the country, with a total intake of more than 250 students a year, including those reading joint degrees. The Taylor Institution is the biggest modern languages research library in the UK. The Modern Languages Faculty also has an undergraduate lending library, and students are able to take advantage of the excellently equipped Language Centre.

International opportunities

Students spend a year abroad before their final year. Please see Modern Languages for more information.

PML Careers

Philosophy and Modern Languages graduates enter careers including academic teaching and research, teaching, commerce, banking and financial services, journalism and communications. An Oxford degree in a modern language opens up opportunities for international careers or working with global companies or organisations.

Recent Philosophy and Modern Languages graduates include an economic consultant, a management consultant and a bilingual editor for a publishing company.

Related courses

Students interested in this course might also like to consider other language courses, or Philosophy and Linguistics (part of PPL).

A typical weekly timetable

Your work is divided between tutorials (one or two weekly), lectures (about six hours weekly) and classes (first-year logic, language classes throughout the course: about two to three hours weekly). The rest of your week will be spent in private study to prepare essays for tutorials and improve your command of your language.

The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances. Read further information about potential course changes.