The University of Hull announces that it is considering closing language courses

A consultation is currently underway with the management of the University of Hull and a wide range of stakeholders regarding the future of the language department, which has been a “vanguard” of modern language research since the 1960s.

A spokesperson for the University of Hull said, “As with all universities, the University of Hull is constantly reviewing its programs to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our applicants, students and employers.

“We are currently examining the offer of modern languages ​​at the University, including new opportunities to study languages ​​for a much larger number of students. A consultation process is underway, involving a wide range of stakeholders.

“The University is committed to taking all reasonable steps, in consultation with campus unions, to avoid and mitigate layoffs to the extent possible.”

Currently on the University of Hull website it says: “We are not accepting applications for our BA (Hons) Chinese Studies and BA (Hons) Applied Modern Languages ​​or MA Translation Studies degrees for 2021.

“Check back soon for more information on entering 2022.”

Earlier today, ITV reported that University of Hull staff were urged to organize collective action by the University and the Collegiate Union (UCU) after announcing that the university was reviewing language courses. modern at university.

UCU said the university has also said it wants to stop offering short in-person language courses and replace them with an online learning platform.

More than 450 staff members are voted to take industrial action to force the university to end its language cuts and reinstate UCU as branch president.

“The University of Hull’s claims to have an international perspective are more than ludicrous as it plans to shut down an entire modern languages ​​department, replacing some courses with an online app that anyone can download to their phone to ten pounds, ”regional manager Julie Kelley told ITV.

“As it stands, the degrees in Chinese, French, Russian, German, Italian, Spanish, Translation and English will all fit, as will the expert lecturers who award them. It is a blatant act of vandalism that staff are determined to prevent. “

The Yorkshire Post has contacted the University of Hull to confirm whether Chinese, French, Russian, German, Italian, Spanish, translation studies and English will all be accepted.

A spokesperson for the university said: “Due to the ongoing consultation, we cannot comment further at this point.”

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