The University of Birmingham and The Open University are pleased to announce the launch of an exciting new collaboration to develop an innovative modern languages programme for undergraduate students.

The new BA Modern Languages (University of Birmingham with The Open University pathway) programme offers a flexible route to a degree in modern languages for those without the traditional entry requirements. Students will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds, blending the flexible study patterns offered by The Open University with the chance to experience campus life at the University of Birmingham, as well as the opportunity to spend time working or studying abroad.

The programme is open from 2014, with enquiries now being taken for 2015/16 entry.

Professor Matthew Rampley, Head of School of Languages, Cultures, Art History and Music at the University of Birmingham, said: ‘We are delighted to be working with The Open University on this exciting and innovative project. The programme will offer students the chance to experience campus life at the University of Birmingham while enjoying the flexibility of provided by The Open University’s methods of study. We are looking forward to welcoming students onto this new programme.’

Mr Steve Hill, Commercial Director at The Open University, said: ‘We’re delighted to have had the chance to develop and offer this innovative programme with the University of Birmingham. We feel this is an exciting proposition that offers students without traditional entry requirements the opportunity to study on a pioneering modern languages programme. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming the first students onto this programme next year.’

The BA Modern Languages (University of Birmingham with The Open University pathway) is a five-year programme. The first two years of study will be taken part-time with The Open University and will accommodate a range of levels, including beginner. After the successful completion of 120 credits of study through The Open University, students will join the second year of the BA Modern Languages course at the University of Birmingham. Students will spend a year in Birmingham experiencing campus life, followed by a year abroad, before returning to complete their studies at Birmingham.