Modern language degree, so it appears (5)
I believe the answer is:
basic
'modern language' is the definition.
(BASIC is a programming language)
'degree so it appears' is the wordplay.
'degree' becomes 'BA' (Bachelor of Arts).
'so it appears' becomes 'sic' (shows an error has been quoted word-for-word).
'ba'+'sic'='BASIC'
(Other definitions for basic that I've seen before include "Simple form of language" , "Staple; ordinary" , "Forming a foundation" , "Rudimentary - programming language" , "Fundamental; alkaline" .)