Bachelor in Modern Languages and Literatures: German, Dutch and English

Germanists offer a sought-after profile for positions of responsibility: in-depth knowledge of several foreign languages (those that matter most in the Belgian context: the national languages and English, the international language par excellence), but also flexibility, adaptability, methodological knowledge, critical thinking.

A highly sought-after profile

In the internationalized society of the 21st century, mastery of various languages and knowledge of cultures other than one's own offer more power than ever over oneself and one's environment, particularly at work.

The oral and written mastery of several foreign languages (in addition to French) opens up numerous career opportunities for Germanists. But multilingualism is not their only sesame; other assets are added to their palette. Studies in languages and literature develop the ability to analyze discourse, synthesize ideas and think on their feet; they teach students to seek meaning and organize information; and they train them to report and argue in several languages, both orally and in writing. All these skills, coupled with a solid general culture, enable Germanists to learn quickly and develop professionally in sectors as diverse as teaching, international organizations, business, the media and more.

Finally, a not inconsiderable advantage, Germanists can directly offer their skills in the country's three language communities, and internationally.

Some Germanists continue their studies with further training (communication, IT, management, etc.), which can facilitate their professional integration in more specialized fields.

Teaching and training

Many Germanists share their expertise and passion for German, English or Dutch with secondary school students. Germanists also intervene in other training contexts in front of audiences of all ages. There is a great need for competent language teachers in colleges, universities, private language centers, continuing education organizations and even within some large national and international companies.

To teach Germanic languages in secondary education, the diploma of agrégé de l'enseignement secondaire supérieur is required. It can be obtained during a second cycle (master's degree with a didactic focus) or through further training.

Language services

In Belgium, federal and international administrations as well as multinational companies generate many jobs related to foreign language skills: translation, multilingual documentation and information management. Some Germanists offer these services on a freelance basis.

In addition, new professions linked to computerized language processing are emerging: development of automatic translation or voice recognition software, courseware design... In this type of innovative project, the expertise of linguists is invaluable support for information technology specialists.

Corporate world

More and more Germanists are working in companies that are open to international business: exporting SMEs, banks, insurance companies, IT services, transport and logistics... They occupy positions in direct contact with foreign customers, assist international executives or progress to management positions.

Research

Some Germanists pursue a research activity after graduation, often supplemented by teaching duties, in Belgium and sometimes abroad. Universities and public funds (e.g. FNRS) can finance the completion of a doctorate. Among other things, PhDs in philosophy and humanities have the opportunity to teach at universities and colleges at national and international level.

For the department's research themes, feel free to visit the department.

Media and communication

Provided they are open to the socio-economic world or have specialized in a particular cultural field, Germanists can join the world of the media (television, print media, specialized press, corporate press...).

Many of our graduates are now journalists. Others hold communications-related positions (external relations, marketing), for example in cultural institutions.

A social life to develop

When it comes to landing a first job, a candidate's personality is often as important as his or her university degree, hence the importance of keeping curiosity alive throughout studies and building a rich social life. Even if they're highly sought-after on the job market, future Germanists will give themselves every chance of landing a fulfilling first job in line with their wishes by multiplying intercultural experiences during their studies, for example by spending time abroad or getting involved in the associative world.