Comparative Literature and Hispanic Studies with a Year Abroad

The BA in Comparative Literature and Hispanic Studies with a Year Abroad at the University of Kent offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich literary, cultural, and historical traditions of the Hispanic world alongside the comparative study of literature from different cultures around the globe. This programme is designed for students passionate about languages, literature, and cultural exchange, providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that fosters critical thinking and intercultural awareness. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse range of texts, including classic and contemporary works from Spain, Latin America, and other Spanish-speaking regions, as well as comparative literature from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The inclusion of a Year Abroad enables students to immerse themselves in a Spanish-speaking environment, enhancing language proficiency and cultural understanding, which are vital for a nuanced appreciation of the material studied. The programme combines rigorous academic modules with practical language skills, vital for careers in translation, education, publishing, international relations, and cultural diplomacy. Students will benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members who are active researchers in the fields of literary studies, cultural analysis, and language teaching. The curriculum is designed to develop analytical skills, cultural literacy, and a global perspective, making graduates highly competitive in international job markets. Additionally, students have access to a wide range of cultural events, language workshops, and study resources that enrich their learning experience. The Year Abroad typically takes place during the third year, allowing students to spend a full academic year studying at a partner university in a Spanish-speaking country. This international experience not only significantly improves language skills but also offers valuable insights into the social and cultural contexts of the texts studied. Upon graduation, students will possess a deep understanding of comparative literary traditions, Hispanic cultures, and the skills to analyze texts critically within their broader cultural and historical contexts. They will be well-equipped for postgraduate study or a range of careers in sectors such as education, publishing, media, arts and culture, diplomatic service, and international organizations. The programme aligns with the university’s commitment to fostering global citizenship and intercultural dialogue, preparing students to become informed and engaged global citizens.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

CP311 - The Tale

LS300 - Learning Spanish 3 (Post A Level)

LS302 - Intensive Learning Spanish 1 (Beginners)

LS312 - Introduction to Hispanic Culture

LS313 - Introduction to Hispanic Culture

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level: ABB
• GCSE:C in a modern European language other than English
• Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.
• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 16 points at HL including IB 4 at HL or 5 at SL in a modern European language other than English

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

Comparative Literature and Hispanic Studies with Year Abroad at the University of Kent offers students a rich and diverse academic experience that combines the study of literary texts, cultural contexts, and language skills across both English and Spanish-speaking cultures. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop students' analytical and critical abilities, fostering a deeper understanding of literary traditions, historical developments, and contemporary issues within the Hispanic world and beyond. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides invaluable immersion in a Spanish-speaking country, enhancing language proficiency and cultural awareness, which are essential for a comprehensive understanding of the fields studied.

Throughout the course, students engage with a wide variety of literary genres, from classic texts to modern works, enabling them to compare and contrast different cultural expressions and literary movements. The curriculum includes modules on Hispanic literature, comparative literary analysis, cultural studies, and language practice, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The program emphasizes developing strong analytical writing, research, and presentation skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, publishing, translation, international relations, or further academic research.

The Year Abroad is a core component, typically taking place in a Spanish-speaking country, where students live, study, and interact with local communities. This experience not only boosts language fluency but also provides firsthand insights into contemporary cultural practices, social issues, and linguistic variation. Students may participate in language courses, cultural activities, or work placements, designed to maximize engagement and language acquisition.

Graduates of this program benefit from the university’s strong connections with cultural institutions, literary associations, and academic networks, which can facilitate internships and employment opportunities. The program’s combination of literary analysis, cultural understanding, and practical language skills ensures graduates are well-prepared for a range of professions that require intercultural competence, foreign language abilities, and critical thinking. Overall, this program offers a comprehensive and immersive education in Comparative Literature and Hispanic Studies, enriched by the unique experience of living abroad, fostering global perspectives and intercultural communication skills.