Arts and Social Sciences
Stellenbosch University’s Department of Modern Foreign Languages is devoted to excellence in the learning and teaching of Chinese, French, German and Spanish language and literature.
Our curriculum integrates language teaching with culture and literature, ensuring that students gain not only linguistic proficiency but also a deep understanding of the languages. With a long-standing tradition of blending linguistic expertise with cultural enrichment, our department has been at the forefront of foreign language teaching in South Africa. We offer an engaging learning experience that equips students with essential language skills and a broad cross-cultural perspective. As a leading hub for language studies, we inspire students to embrace multilingualism and engage with the world in a meaningful, informed way.
Our undergraduate modules are offered as part of various undergraduate degree programmes and cater to different language backgrounds and interests.
All undergraduate modules focus on linguistic proficiency, communication skills and cultural literacy in the chosen languages, enhancing global awareness and preparing students for diverse careers.
Programmes such as BA Language and Culture and BA Humanities are most suitable for students wishing to major in one or several foreign languages.
Our Chinese, German, French and Spanish first-year modules cater for complete beginners. Our second and third-year modules also include literature and cultural studies. Spanish is currently only offered on first- and second-year level.
We also offer more advanced modules for students who matriculated with German or French as a second additional language.
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I don’t know anything about the language. Can I still study it?
Yes, you have to register for the 178 module.
I studied French/German for grade 12. Which module should I take?
You must register for French 188 or German 188.
My parents are German. Can I study German?
Yes, you must register for German 188.
My parents are French. Can I study French?
No. We offer French as a foreign language. If French is not a foreign language to you or if you have very strong ties with the language, you cannot study French on undergraduate level with us.
Do you offer Spanish/Portuguese/Italian/Arabic?
No, we offer Chinese, French and German.
What can I do with a language?
A foreign language opens doors in almost any profession. You can pursue a language orientated profession, such as translation, interpreting or teaching. A language will also open doors for you in journalism and commerce. Foreign companies with interests in South Africa need employees with the necessary language skills.
Can I study more than one language?
Yes. Some programmes, like Language and Culture, allow you to study two or more languages.