- guardian.co.uk, Thursday 1 May 2008 01.09 BST
Photograph: Sarah Lee
Qu'est-ce que j'apprendrai?
Studying a language is becoming a bit of a dying art, but if you want to fully engage in a new culture or work overseas, it is essential.
Language degrees will do more than teach the grammar and syntax of a language, they will also give students an insight into the country's history, culture, literature and politics, which means you should be able to at least have a shot at debating the issues of the day in another country's mother tongue.
Despite the recent closures of university language departments, there are still plenty of institutions offering courses in the modern classics - French, Spanish, German, Italian - as well as those considered niche a decade a go - Mandarin, Arabic, Japanese, and some of the African languages, such as Swahili. And, of course, there are courses in Welsh and Gaelic.
Courses can be studied as a single honours degree or as a joint subject with, for example, history, politics or even chemistry, if you want to keep your options open. You could also choose to learn two languages, perhaps French and Spanish.
Although having an A-level in a language will undoubtedly help if you go on to take it as a degree, it's not essential.
Of course, to fully immerse yourself in a language you need to head overseas and use it. Many courses will incorporate a year overseas into the schedule, so you should come back well versed.
¿Qué habilidades conseguiré?
It will depend on your degree, but you should graduate with the ability to read, write, listen to and speak in a foreign language.
You'll know how to research and use a range of materials (printed texts and online sites), particularly dictionaries and grammar aids.
You will be adept at working independently, and be able to communicate creatively and clearly.
You should also gain an understanding of a new country. And time spent overseas will enhance your cultural awareness.
Che lavoro posso ottenere?
The breadth of your skills will make you highly desirable among employers, which is why language graduates have the lowest rates of unemployment.
The world is literally your oyster. Obvious career routes are translating, interpreting and teaching roles - you will probably be snapped up if you are fluent in Mandarin or Arabic to meet a growing demand.
But other options include working in the diplomatic service or the civil service, perhaps in the Foreign Office.
Language graduates have got research jobs or development work in the European Union or the United Nations, where knowledge of at least two foreign languages is often required.
Graduates will also be favoured in business and legal institutions.
Was schaut auf dem Lebenslauf gut?
· The ability to read, write, listen and speak in a foreign language
· To reflect and judge critically
· To be self-reliant, adaptable and flexible.
· For the full range of skills you can develop through a degree in languages, click here (pdf).
