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Essentials Opportunities Learning-a-Language

Learning a Language

Speaking a second language is an incredibly useful skill to have. Find out more about the Institution Wide Language Programme and how to develop your skills.

The University offers language modules on the Institution Wide Language Programmes (IWLP) to everyone within the University community. The course may be taken as part of your degree as a 20-credit module, or for personal development as a non-credit language course for a fee. 
 
There are 10 different languages on offer, with multiple levels from absolute beginner to intermediate, so you can continue a language you started before or take a new one from scratch. You will be assessed as part of the application process to make sure that you are placed in the correct class. The 10 languages on offer are:
• Arabic
• British Sign Language (BSL)
• Chinese (Mandarin)
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Modern Greek
• Russian
• Spanish
 

Why learn a language?

Students enjoy IWLP modules because they learn a practical skill and get some variety from their main degree. They appreciate the change of pace and change of perspective that an IWLP module brings. Learning a new language opens you up to new people and new experiences, both in the classroom and beyond. Read testimonials from former student for plenty more reasons to give it a go!
 

How will you learn?

Learning is done in an interactive manner and you will be using your language from day one in the classroom. You will spend 3 hours a week in the classroom over the two teaching terms, with students from all over the University and year parts. With classes capped at 20, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly and your tutor will get to know you quickly. Find out more on the IWLP's pages.
 

How do you apply?

See the IWLP’s 'How to Apply' page for the most detailed information. If you are taking an IWLP module for credit as part of your degree, you will sign up via the module selection browser on RISIS during the April (current students) or September (arriving students) module selection periods. If you are taking an IWLP module non-credit, you will sign up via the website in September. The non-credit fee for 2023/24 is £350. 
 

Any more questions?

Drop us an email at iwlp@reading.ac.uk at any time and we will get back to you.
 

Find out more...

Institute Wide Language Programme 

Website: www.reading.ac.uk/iwlp

Telephone: 0118 378 7318

Email: iwlp@reading.ac.uk

Self-Assess Centre for Language Learning (SACLL)

The SACLL provides you with resources to help practise your language skills.

Website: www.reading.ac.uk/sacll

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