A report on how Russell Group Modern Languages departments are responding to the challenges facing the Humanities.
The Humanities Division and Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages have recently collaborated with Human Economics to understand the approaches that modern languages departments from a cross-section of Russell Group universities are taking to address systemic challenges faced across the sector.
We are delighted to share our report on this work, with gratitude to colleagues in leadership roles across UK languages departments for their thoughtful contributions and support.
Professor Dan Grimley, Head of the Humanities Division at the University of Oxford, said: "Languages are at the heart of so much of what we teach and research in the Humanities. But studying languages is not simply a matter of linguistic comprehension; it is foundational for social, political, cultural and historical understanding and analysis, and for grasping the world in its full richness and diversity. It is no surprise, as the data gathered in this report indicate, that languages graduates are in such keen demand from employers. Yet, though the case for investment is clear, languages across the UK and beyond face steep structural and sector-wide challenges, both in terms of resourcing and also pipeline.
The Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages at Oxford is one of the largest units of its kind in the UK, but it is not immune from those pressures. As this report shows, however, we have an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and adapt, to advocate for the continuing importance and urgency of language teaching and research. Facing those headwinds confidently and proactively, informed by the strategic findings detailed in this report, will enable Languages to retain their world-leading strengths and reputation.
The Humanities Division is committed to working hand-in-hand with our Faculty and with our colleagues across the sector. Our recent move into the Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities gives us a unique platform from which to achieve those goals. Together, we can ensure that future generations of students and researchers will access the same transformational benefits that the study of languages offers, sustaining an unparalleled legacy for many years to come."
Read the full report below:
