European Studies and Modern Languages

European Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Essex offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich cultural, historical, political, and linguistic diversity of Europe. This interdisciplinary programme combines intensive language training with in-depth study of European institutions, societies, and cultural practices, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, diplomacy, translation, journalism, and international business. Throughout the course, students develop advanced language skills in two European languages, which may include French, German, Spanish, Italian, or other options, alongside a comprehensive understanding of European political systems, economic frameworks, and cultural identities.

The programme emphasizes active engagement with European history, politics, and contemporary issues, fostering critical thinking and intercultural competence. Students will participate in a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, language laboratories, and practical workshops. The modules are designed to enhance not only linguistic proficiency but also analytical and research skills, enabling students to evaluate European affairs from multiple perspectives. Additionally, students can benefit from opportunities such as Erasmus exchanges, internships, and study visits to relevant European institutions, which greatly expand their international outlook and employability.

Our tutors are experts in their fields, offering tailored support to help students succeed academically and prepare for the global job market. The programme culminates in a dissertation or major project that allows students to demonstrate their expertise and research capabilities in European Studies or Modern Languages. Graduates leave equipped with a versatile skill set, including fluency in European languages and a deep understanding of European institutions, politics, and culture, making them highly competitive in a range of international careers. Whether you aim to work in international organizations, media, education, or the private sector, this programme provides a solid foundation for your professional development in a globalized world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking a humanities or social science, then you have the greatest choice, as most of our first-year modules do not assume any specialist knowledge.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available. We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Europe: Myth and Idea;
Two of: French, German, Italian, Portuguese or Spanish; and
One European Option

Year 2

Two of: French, German, Italian, Portuguese or Spanish; and
two European options

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

Two of: French, German, Italian, Portuguese or Spanish; and
two European options or one European option or discretionary project

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
• If French or Portuguese is taken as the major language, you will need to have A-level French or Portuguese/Spanish at grade E or above (or equivalent).
• If you are interested in studying European studies with a modern language for which you consider yourself to be a native speaker, please contact Undergraduate Admissions prior to making your application.

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at the University of Essex please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/funding.

The Bachelor of Arts in European Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Essex is a comprehensive interdisciplinary programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of European culture, politics, history, and society, alongside acquiring proficiency in one or more modern European languages. This program aims to foster critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and linguistic competence, making graduates well-equipped for careers in international relations, diplomacy, translation, journalism, and global business. Throughout the course, students engage with a variety of modules covering European integration, contemporary European history, cultural studies, and language studies. The programme offers opportunities for study abroad, enabling students to immerse themselves in European cultures and enhance their language skills through real-world experience. The curriculum is structured to balance language acquisition with regional studies, allowing students to specialise in specific areas such as French, German, Spanish, or other European languages. Additionally, the course incorporates modules on European politics, economics, and social issues, providing a multidisciplinary perspective on contemporary Europe. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, exchange programmes, and research projects to enrich their academic experience and improve their employability upon graduation. The university’s academic staff comprises experienced researchers and practitioners in European studies and linguistics, offering expert guidance and mentoring. The programme’s flexible options enable students to tailor their learning pathway to their interests and career aspirations. Upon completion, graduates possess a strong foundation in European languages and regional expertise, complemented by an understanding of historical and current European affairs, preparing them for diverse professional roles across sectors linked to Europe and beyond.