Qualifications Needed

Qualifications required

For employment where foreign languages are a requirement you will need a language degree. You generally choose two languages if you study applied languages. To qualify as a  teacher you need to complete a PME (Post-graduate Master in Education). For a qualification as an EU lawyer-linguist you need a law degree and a thorough command of two languages in addition to your native language.

For employment in other areas where languages are an asset you can pick a language subject e.g. German with an engineering degree or Spanish with a business degree. You can pick a language module with any course.

Filter undergraduate courses available through the CAO that have language options available as either Major, Minor or Elective components on our CourseFinder search tool here.

You can also benefit from a language skill even without formal qualifications, perhaps you have a home language other than English. These skills will be valuable on your CV.

Typical entry routes

Languages specialist typically complete a languages degree at 3rd level. Languages can also be combined with other fields e.g. business, law or engineering. In for example international business or some hospitality courses you will be required to spend time abroad.

But you don’t need to be fluent for a language to give your career a major boost. Conversational German might help an engineer win a place on a prestigious project. Some Arabic might win a journalist or diplomat a foreign posting. Spanish might transform the career of a chef. Every diplomat knows that a few phrases in a person’s native language can be one of the surest ways to make a good first impression.

You can also benefit from a language skill even without a formal qualification, but in that case your language skill is either not a degree-level requirement or it suffices to be a native speaker.

Why employers value language skills

From an employer's point of view, having employees who are fluent in another language is beneficial in many ways. In today's globalised world, possessing foreign language skills and the increased cultural awareness that comes from that skill can help to build strong relationships with clients. Also, speaking with new customers in their native language can instantly make them feel comfortable and builds trust between parties.

Employers also recognise that someone who has learned another language is someone that is broad-minded, can multi-task, is proactive and will be up for a challenge. All characteristics that will benefit any workplace.

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