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Modern and Medieval Languages and Linguistics

MML at Corpus Fact File

Typical offer: A*AA in A Levels (or equivalent). 

Required subjects: A Level (or equivalent) in at least one of the languages to be studied

Typical number of MML undergraduates admitted per year: 4-6

Submitted written work requirements: see our Written Work webpage

Admissions assessment: College-registered assessment

MML at Cambridge

Modern and Medieval Languages and Linguistics (MML) students at Cambridge study two languages at the start of their degree. Although many of our students continue with languages they took at A Level, most commonly French and Spanish, others are attracted by the possibility of starting something different - modern languages that may be taken from scratch include German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

The main emphasis on Year 1 is on developing language skills, and by the end of Year 2, students achieve near-native fluency in both languages. Students also study the literature and history of the two languages. Students spend 8 months abroad in the 3rd Year, then they return to Cambridge for the 4th and final year.

Find out more about the MML course, including the range of paper options, on the University's MML webpage.

Why study MML at Corpus?

Corpus is an intimate and supportive, but also dynamic and expansive college in which to study Modern and Medieval Literature. The College has excellent teaching provision in modern languages, and generous travel grants for studies undertaken during the vacation periods are available. MML undergraduates are  members of our Modern and Medieval Languages society, which organises talks, events, and film nights across the academic year,

At present, the Corpus MML Directors of Studies have particular interests in the study of modern European literature and culture, with an emphasis on film and the visual arts, but the College makes arrangements for tuition in all languages, and students are actively guided to pursue study in all periods of European literature, according to their interests. Like all other colleges, only a limited number of languages and specialties are represented within its own Fellowship, but one of the attractions of modern language studies is the contact-time with a range of teachers at different colleges.

What do we look for in applicants?

Through interviews and its selection of candidates, Corpus tries to assess linguistic aptitude as well as literary and cultural interests and general motivation. We are looking for students with a sincere interest in the languages they are applying to study, and independent reading and exploration around languages and culture can therefore be hugely beneficial for strengthening an application. Take a look at our suggested super-curricular resources below for some ideas of where to start.

Super-curricular resources

The range of different languages on offer for MML applicants means that super-curricular engagement will look very different for different applicants. We encourage you follow your own interests when independently exploring the languages and cultures of the languages you want to study at university level.