Would it be better if we all spoke the same language? Take this further...

Would it be better if we all spoke the same language? By now, you know this is a tricky subject! If you’ve been inspired to delve deeper, here are some suggested subjects you could study at a university like Oxford.

  1. Modern Languages 
    1. Studying Modern Languages provides both practical training in written and spoken language and also an extensive introduction to European literature and thought. As well as learning to write and speak the language(s) fluently, you can study a broad range of literature, or focus your studies on any period from the medieval to the present day. A wide range of other options allow you to explore subjects including linguistics, philology, film studies or (in French and German) advanced translation. Find out more. 
  2. Oriental Studies 
    1. Among subjects in the humanities, Oriental Studies is unique in introducing students to civilisations that are different from the Western ones that form the basis of the curriculum in most British schools and colleges. The courses present both the major traditions of the regions studied and, in most cases, their modern developments. All courses include language, literature, history and culture and there is a wide range of options in such fields as art and archaeology, history, literature, philosophy, religion and modern social studies. Find out more.  
  3. Classics 
    1. Classics (Literae Humaniores) is a wide-ranging degree devoted to the study of the literature, history, philosophy, languages and archaeology of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. It is one of the most interdisciplinary of all subjects, and offers the opportunity to study two foundational ancient civilisations and their reception in modern times. The degree permits students also to take extensive options in modern philosophy, a flexibility which makes Oxford’s Literae Humaniores different from most other Classics courses. Find out more.
  4. Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics
    1. There are close connections between these three subjects, so studying a combination of them makes a lot of sense. Psychology includes subjects as diverse as social interaction, learning, child development, schizophrenia and information processing. Philosophy is concerned with a wide range of questions including ethics, knowledge and the nature of mind. Linguistics is the study of language in all its aspects, including the structure of languages, meaning (semantics), how children learn language, pronunciation, and how people understand, mentally represent and generate language. Find out more.
  5. Mathematics
    1. Mathematicians have always been fascinated by numbers. One of the most famous problems is Fermat’s Last Theorem: ie if n≥3, the equation xn+yn=zn has no solutions with x, y, z all nonzero integers. An older problem is to show that one cannot construct a line of length 3√2 with ruler and compass, starting with just a unit length. Find out more.

These are just some ideas, and if you are considering Higher Education you should carefully weigh up your options to choose the course and university that are right for you! You could try further suggested reading and resources