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How to Develop Your Language Skills at Queen’s

If you are interested in picking up a new skill during your time at Queen’s, look no further – read how you can develop and enhance your communication skills in a foreign language here on campus.

Random assortment of English and French words

The Language Centre at Queen’s

Queen’s has a dedicated Language Centre which runs classes every semester for around 17 different languages, from Dutch to Japanese. The Centre offers a variety of in-person and online sessions, meaning you can attend classes based around your schedule and location.

Classes usually run for around two hours per week over 10 weeks (schedule subject to university timetable). You will have the opportunity to prepare for your classes through pre-class videos, and then build on your learning with post-class activities.

The best part? The entire block of classes is available for Queen’s students for just £20! Keep an eye out on the Language Centre’s programme page for upcoming course information and registration details.

Language Courses list

Open Learning

If you are interested in shorter or longer courses that delve into the cultural contexts of a language (or simply want to improve your pronunciation), Open Learning classes are available for a range of languages, including ‘A Taste of Spain Intermediate’, ‘French: Perfect Pronunciation’, and ‘Classical Greek: Language Club’.

For many courses, a concessionary fee is also given to full-time Queen’s students. Find out more about available courses here.

Clubs and Societies

Joining a language-centred club or society at Queen’s is the perfect opportunity to develop your language skills in a more relaxed setting with fellow students. We have a range of relevant clubs and societies, including:

Monthly Ciorcal Comhrá (Irish Conversation Circles) also regularly take place on campus – keep an eye out on What’s On for upcoming sessions!

Irish conversation circle

Around the City

If you would like a change of scenery from classrooms on campus, the Crescent Arts Centre offers a range of language classes from beginner to advanced level. Find out more here! Courses are also offered by the Belfast Met and Stranmillis University College.

Hear from our students

Still looking for new resources to elevate your language skills? International Business & Spanish student Éadaoin has some top tips for enhancing your language proficiency, including making the most of podcasts and online platforms. She has also put together a helpful guide to learning Irish during your time at Queen’s. In addition, French and Spanish student Zoë recommends visiting the Queen’s Film Theatre for some foreign film screenings!

Students watching film in the QFT

Find out more

The Language Centre at Queen's

Hannah Reilly

Staff Writer | Queen's Global

Hi, I'm Hannah, a two-time graduate of Queen's University Belfast and now a current staff member of Queen's Global! As well as helping with general content management for the main Queen's website, I also collaborate with current students to create relatable and useful content for the student blog.

I studied BA English and MA English Literary Studies at Queen's and have since worked in various editorial positions in Belfast, including previous roles as Editorial Assistant and Assistant Commissioning Editor for local and international magazine publications.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading novels (and attending various book clubs), studying Korean at the Queen's Language Centre and attending Belfast Giants ice hockey games!

Hannah Reilly in Quad
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