Academic work at the Department of Business Foreign Language and Translation

The Department of Business Foreign Language and Translation provides professional foreign language education for students majoring in economics and international relations. Courses are offered in both full-time and part-time formats. Students from the Faculty of Economics and the Karazin Institute of International Relations and Tourism Business can study the following subjects:

English for Specific Purposes (ESP) as the first or second language

German, French, and Spanish as second-language options at the B2 level, aligned with the European Language Proficiency Framework.

For students at the Karazin Institute of International Relations and Tourism Business, specialized courses in English language and translation are offered at the B2/B2+ levels. Additionally, translation practice in their primary foreign language (English) is provided.

Teaching Approach and Objectives

The department employs cutting-edge educational methods, including Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), supported by computer networks, multimedia tools, and audiovisual programs. The curriculum is designed to:

  • Develop a high level of communicative competence for professional communication in foreign languages.
  • Enhance grammar proficiency and mastery of specialized terminology for practical use.
  • Strengthen skills in reading, listening, speaking, writing (including business correspondence and academic writing).

These skills enable students to utilize their foreign language competencies for advancing professional knowledge and promoting lifelong learning.

Compliance with Educational Standards

The educational process adheres to the standards of Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), and national qualification levels. It aligns with the "English in the Educational Space" project (2.10) from the Development Strategy of V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University (2019–2025)and its "Strategic Goals and Intentions" until 2030 regarding interdisciplinary cooperation and interaction with the applied field on the basis of sustainable development..

The student-centered methodology emphasizes a professionally oriented approach and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN in the field of quality education, global partnership, etc., in particular, three key priorities of modern education:

  • European integration
  • Multilingualism
  • Digitalization

This framework ensures graduates achieve high qualifications, mastering the first foreign language at the B2/B2+ level.

Curriculum Structure and Assessment

The program is organized into thematic blocks (approximately two per semester), reflecting European educational practices. Knowledge assessment includes oral and written formats, evaluating:

  • Proficiency in active course material
  • General language skills for effective professional communication
  • Resources and Methodological Support

Students have access to authentic textbooks, Moodle courses, and methodological materials developed by the department. Educational resources include:

  • Work programs
  • Methodological guidelines
  • Sample tasks for assessments (tests, credits/exams).

These materials are available online, optimizing accessibility and learning outcomes. The department continuously updates educational content to incorporate advancements in linguistics, pedagogy, economics and international relations.

Facilities and Technical Support

The department is equipped with multimedia classrooms, audio-visual technology, and visual teaching aids. Ongoing efforts are made to enhance the scientific and technical infrastructure, ensuring a modern and effective learning environment.