Language Training for PGRs

Bristol Doctoral College works with the School of Modern Languages to offer Postgraduate Researchers the opportunity to study a language unit.

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Study a Language Unit

You can apply for the University Wide Language Programme (UWLP) if you meet the following criteria:  

  • You can commit to up to 3 hrs weekly contact time as well as 4-6 hours per week of private study 
  • You take all associated tests and examinations for the course 
  • You have written approval from your Supervisor and Head of School
  • Your School can confirm that the £300 course cost will be covered by either a training budget, external project funding, bench fees or tuition fees and provide a contact for making this payment (e.g. an administrator in the School Office)
  • Learning a language is essential for your research. For example, you may need to
    • Engage with non-English texts and resources  
    • Work in collaboration with overseas researchers  
    • Travel abroad for your research  

On completion of the language course you will be receive a certificate confirming the level of language training achieved. 


Available Courses

Further details about UWLP and the language courses available can be found in the online handbook.

Please note: this handbook are primarily intended for undergraduate students; information relating to enrollment, registration, and credit points is not applicable to PGRs.


How to Apply

Applications for UWLP 2024-25 for PGRs are now closed. The next application round will begin in Spring 2025.

The process for PGR UWLP applications is managed by Bristol Doctoral College. Applications submitted separately to the School of Modern Languages will not be accepted.  

UWLP 2024/5

Information about the languages available can be found on the School of Modern Languages' University-Wide Language Programme web page.

Language Training for PGRs

Watch this short video about UWLP for PGRs, which will help you think about your reasons for applying.  

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