Rhodes University School of Languages
Why Study Languages
“I’m studying Afrikaans, Classics, Modern Fiction, German and Xhosa this year”, says a student.
“What kind of job is that going to help you get?” comes the sceptical response.
OK, a BA degree may not train you for any particular profession or give you many technical skills, but the fact remains that students with a BA degree, a degree in Humanities, are highly sought after in the workplace. Why? Because a BA teaches you how to think for yourself. In this rapidly developing world, employees in business, communication and other fields need to be able to think on their feet.
Studying language and literature helps foster skills in critical analysis and independent judgement. But not only that, as you study language and literature you acquire knowledge of the cultures of other societies and language groups. This insight then enables you to work better in a multi-cultural context, where respect for and understanding of differences can lead to a better and more productive work environment, very important in South Africa today.
If you have your BA degree in one or more languages and feel you need more focused training for a prospective career, there are many opportunities at Postgraduate level, such as study towards an MBA, a Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management, a Diploma or Masters in Translation, a Higher Diploma in Journalism etc.