If you love languages, then there’s a good chance that Portuguese is at the top of your list – especially if you live here in Goa. For a long time now, Goa University has had a rather successful post-graduate course in Portuguese, but now following its introduction of a Bachelors Degree programme in French and Francophone Studies, Goa University is now offering a BA in Portuguese and Lusophone Studies starting this academic year.
The Bachelor of Arts in Portuguese will be made available to students who have completed their 12th Standard Education, having studied Portuguese at least till the 10th Grade. Information on the eligibility criteria and application process (for BA General or Honours) has been updated on the Goa University website. With the introduction of these undergraduate language programmes, GU is hoping to see an increase in enrollment for the post-graduate MA in Portuguese and French. These MA courses have become increasingly popular among students from across India – especially those from Delhi, Haryana, and Bihar.
A former Portuguese colony, Goa’s Goa University is the only varsity in the country that offers an MA in Portuguese. In a constantly evolving and ever competitive job market, students find that learning a second European language gives them an edge in the field, and the MA Portuguese course is the perfect push in that direction. The increasing trade with Portuguese speaking nations such as Brazil has also opened up a plethora of job opportunities in these countries, making employment easier for those with knowledge of the language.
If you know anyone who’s moving into higher secondary school and has a love for languages, please share this post with them. What do you think about these new undergraduate programmes? Do you think they’re going to prove popular with today’s students? Let us know in the comments below.
