Bulgarian and East European Studies

East European Studies at University College London offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the history, politics, culture, and society of Eastern Europe. This programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical developments and contemporary issues facing the region, enabling them to analyze complex political and social phenomena from multiple perspectives. The curriculum combines history, political science, sociology, and cultural studies, encouraging critical thinking and comparative analysis. Students will examine key topics such as the legacy of communism, post-socialist transformations, nationalism, ethnic diversity, and EU integration processes. Through a variety of modules, including lectures, seminars, and research projects, participants will develop advanced research skills and a deep knowledge of the region’s diverse cultures and histories. The programme also emphasizes language proficiency and engagement with primary sources, fostering a nuanced understanding of Eastern European countries. Graduates will be equipped for careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, and diplomatic service, with a solid foundation for further research or professional practice related to Eastern Europe. The programme benefits from UCL’s rich academic resources, expert faculty, and strong links with regional institutions, providing students with unique opportunities for engagement and networking. Whether students are interested in historical analysis, contemporary politics, or cultural studies, the programme offers a rigorous and enriching academic experience designed to prepare them for meaningful engagement with Eastern European issues in a global context.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Your degree will train you to the highest level of proficiency in speaking, writing and understanding in your chosen language(s), whether you begin with no prior knowledge or already have a good command of the language. As you progress through the degree, compulsory language modules are tailored to your existing knowledge. You will also take compulsory modules on literature and culture.

You will be encouraged to develop and pursue your own interests by choosing your optional modules from within three pathways:

• Language and Literature
• Social Science
• History

Your third year is spent abroad. This will not only bring the language and culture you are studying to life, but also strengthen your resourcefulness and self-reliance. You will normally spend this year studying at a university in your chosen country, but alternatives, such as work placements, may be possible.

A levels

Grades - AAB-ABB

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C.

IB Diploma

Points - 34-36

Subjects

A score of 16-17 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Financing for the Bulgarian and East European Studies program at University College London is typically structured through a combination of university scholarships, government-funded grants, and external funding sources. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships offered specifically for area studies, international travel grants, and research funding opportunities. UCL provides several in-house scholarship schemes, such as the UCL Graduate Research Scholarships, which may cover tuition fees partially or in full, along with maintenance stipends. Additionally, students can apply for the Chevening Scholarships, which are funded by the UK government and support outstanding emerging leaders from around the world pursuing master's degrees at UK institutions including UCL.

For international students, external funding agencies, such as the Erasmus+ program, offer mobility and study abroad scholarships that can offset costs associated with studying in the UK. Many students also seek external fellowships, charitable grants, or sponsorships relevant to their research interests in Bulgarian and East European studies. It is advisable to apply for funding as early as possible, considering application deadlines and specific eligibility criteria.

UCL's Department of Balkan and Balkan-related studies may provide guidance on available internal resources or assist students in identifying external sources of funding. Education loans are also an option for some students, depending on their home country’s financial services. Overall, students are urged to thoroughly research and prepare a comprehensive funding plan ahead of their application, taking into account tuition fees, accommodation costs, and daily living expenses in London. While exact figures vary from year to year and between funding sources, students can expect to budget for tuition fees, which may be covered partially by scholarships, and living costs estimated at approximately £1,200-£1,500 per month. The university also offers financial counseling services to support students in managing their study-related finances effectively.

The Bulgarian and East European Studies program at University College London offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, culture, politics, and society of Bulgaria and the broader East European region. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the historical developments, cultural contexts, and contemporary issues facing Eastern Europe, with particular emphasis on Bulgaria. Students engage with a diverse range of topics including the Ottoman influence on Bulgarian culture, the experience of communism and post-communist transition, political developments, economic transformations, and the region's role within broader European and global contexts. The program combines language study, regional history, political science, and cultural analysis to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills applicable in international relations, policy analysis, academia, and cultural sectors.

Throughout the course, students have opportunities to improve their language proficiency in Bulgarian, which enhances their ability to access primary sources and engage directly with regional materials. The program includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and field trips that provide immersive learning experiences. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects and may have opportunities for internships or exchanges within the region, fostering a practical understanding of East European affairs.

UCL's location in London, a global hub for international diplomacy and cross-cultural exchange, provides additional value by allowing students to participate in relevant conferences, seminars, and networking events with academics, policymakers, and regional experts. Graduates of the program have pursued careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, and cultural institutions. The program's focus on critical analysis, language skills, and regional expertise makes it a distinctive choice for students interested in East European studies.

Overall, the Bulgarian and East European Studies program at UCL offers an in-depth academic experience that combines regional specialization with interdisciplinary approaches, preparing students for a range of professional paths related to Eastern Europe and Bulgaria.