The MA (Hons) Modern Languages for Business Management programme at Heriot-Watt University gives you the chance to study a modern foreign language from a beginner level to a proficient standard, whilst developing transferable skills in business and management.
It combines our expertise in applied language studies with specialist business courses from Heriot-Watts Edinburgh Business School – one of the largest and most respected business schools in Scotland with proficiency in finance, marketing, economics, and management. You can choose to study at least one of the following languages to degree level – Chinese, French, German, or Spanish. Complementary courses explore the countries in which your chosen language is studied, with a focus on their societies and business cultures. Youll also study the core principles of business management and their application in global workplaces.
The MA (Hons) Modern Languages for Business Management programme is a clear example of our career-focused approach to language studies, and Heriot-Watt University ranked 2nd for German, 2nd for Iberian Languages and 3rd for French in Scotland in the Complete University Guide 2022. We are also accredited as a higher education partner by the Chartered Institute of Linguists.
Our Modern Languages for Business Management degree will open opportunities for a global career. It will provide you with the specialist business knowledge and transferable communication and language skills required to enter the employment market in a strong position. European and international markets present great opportunities for multilingual graduates with business and management skills, so learning a language as part of a degree in business and management can be the foundation of a truly rewarding career. 
In your third year, youll spend at least one semester working or studying abroad at one of our partner universities. This is a great opportunity to further develop your language skills, as you will be immersed in the language and culture you are studying.
Youll benefit from the industry relevance of the programme, which will set you up for life after graduation. Upon completion, youll be equipped with a wide range of skills to embark on professional level employment in a variety of careers.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
September 2025
Edinburgh Campus
Edinburgh,
Edinburgh,
EH14 4AS, Scotland, United Kingdom
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
September 2025
Edinburgh Campus
Riccarton,
Edinburgh,
Edinburgh, City Of,
EH14 4AS, SCOTLAND, Scotland
Year 1 Standard entry requirements - Highers AABB (A in chosen language, unless studying Beginner Pathway). A-Levels BBC - ABB (B in chosen language, unless studying Beginner Pathway). Int. Baccalaureate 30 points (HL 5 in chosen language, unless studying Beginner Pathway). BTEC DDM. HNC B in graded unit. HND BB. Please check that you meet our University-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements. Year 1 Minimum entry requirements - Highers BBBC. A-Levels BCC. Year 2 - A-Level: ABB with A in chosen language. Advanced Higher: BB with B in Chosen Language and AABB at Higher. Year 3 - Advanced Highers or A-Level results may be considered on an individual basis. IELTS Academic - 6.0 with no score lower than 5.5. TOEFL iBT - 79 (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21).
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Heriot-Watt University is a world-leading institution ranked 235th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024).