ML2PYA: Preparing for the Year Abroad Part 2

Module code: ML2PYA

Module provider: Languages and Cultures; School of Humanities

Credits: 0

ECTS credits: 0

Level: 5

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1 / 2

Module convenor: Dr Denisse Lazo-Gonzalez, email: d.m.lazo-gonzalez@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2026/7

Available to visiting students: No

Talis reading list: No

Last updated: 26 March 2026

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This non-credit bearing module aims to equip you with the knowledge and practical tools necessary for undertaking a Year Abroad. This module will support you in navigating: choosing which route to take for your Year Abroad (study, work or a combination); selecting and enrolling for study placements; the practicalities surrounding work placements; and the practical and cultural aspects of preparing for a year in another country/countries. You will also explore the academic assessment requirements and engagement expected during your Year Abroad.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Complete the required processes for selecting and enrolling on study placements, and/or work placements/assistantships.  
2. Be prepared for visa applications​ and living abroad.  
3. Outline the academic assessment requirements for the Year Abroad.  
4. Demonstrate a commitment to the responsibilities and engagement expected from University of Reading students during the Year Abroad.   

Module content

Content provided will include a range of online resources, briefings and events including peer support, and will also include an element of self-guided personal study time in order to prepare and apply for their Year Abroad placement(s). 

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

The Year Abroad support module will mainly include briefings by the Department of Languages and Cultures Year Abroad team; external providers relating to assistantships and other placement opportunities; and embassies. It will also include peer support and sessions to reflect on the cultural aspects of living abroad and how to support your wellbeing while abroad.

Online content will be made available to all students. 

Study hours

At least 20 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.

Please note the independent study hours above are notional numbers of hours; each student will approach studying in different ways. We would advise you to reflect on your learning and the number of hours you are allocating to these tasks.

Semester 1 The hours in this column may include hours during the Christmas holiday period.

Semester 2 The hours in this column may include hours during the Easter holiday period.

Summer The hours in this column will take place during the summer holidays and may be at the start and/or end of the module.

Assessment

Requirements for a pass

There is no assessment on this module.

Summative assessment

Penalties for late submission of summative assessment

There is no assessment on this module.

Formative assessment

Formative assessment is any task or activity which creates feedback (or feedforward) for you about your learning, but which does not contribute towards your overall module mark.

Students will be required to submit the following paperwork:

Semester 1:

• Study placement choices form
• Next of kin form

Semester 2:

• Progression form

In semester 2, students will also be required to organise their own paperwork for their visa applications and enrol correctly at their study placement(s)/fulfil the preparatory requirements for their work placement(s).

Reassessment

Additional costs