The Association of University Language Communities in the UK & Ireland (AULC) is writing in support of the modern languages programme at the University of Leicester for a number of reasons, including:
- Modern Languages at the University of Leicester includes French, Italian, Spanish and Latin American Studies, and Translation/Interpreting. These programmes are led by world-class academics and have consistently delivered excellence in teaching, research, and public engagement, alongside employability-focused education, an area that directly aligns with the University’s strategic priorities;
- In the most recent National Student Survey (2024), the department ranked first in the UK for overall positivity. It also boasts a strong REF2021 GPA of 3.55, and extensive contributions to interdisciplinary teaching and internationalisation;
- The profitability of its University-Wide Language programme;
- The enhancement of the students’ learning experience;
- In an increasingly globalised world, languages and intercultural awareness are widely recognised as vital to employability, diplomacy, artificial intelligence and social cohesion.
- If the University of Leicester ceases all Modern Languages degree provision, a ‘cold spot’ for Modern Language degree provision will emerge in the region disabling students from studying languages in a culturally diverse city.
I urge you to reconsider the closure of your modern languages programme. This flies in the face of evidence from and about what students in Higher Education need and expect.
Yours faithfully
Dr Ana de Medeiros, Chair AULC