European Studies (Humanities) — Combined Languages

Description

European Studies at Kent gives you the opportunity to study the politics, history and culture of Europe in the nearest UK city to continental Europe. We call ourselves the UK's European university, not only because of our proximity to the continent but also because of our extensive network of connections and partnerships in Europe.

We offer programmes in European Studies and one of the major European languages offered to degree level at Kent: French, German, Italian and Spanish, or a combination of two languages. All of our programmes include a year abroad in another European country either studying at one of our partner universities or working

Careers

The ability to speak another European language is a key asset in the global employment market, and many employers view a graduate with overseas study experience as more employable.

Recent graduates have gone into areas such as politics both in the UK national and local government and Europe, the media, consultancy, teaching, marketing and financial services. Many also went on to postgraduate study.

Independent rankings

In the National Student Survey 2013, French was ranked 9th for student satisfaction. And Modern languages were ranked 14th for student satisfaction in The Guardian University Guide 2014.

Detailed Course Facts

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

• English

Course Content

Year abroad

You spend a year abroad between Stages 2 and 3, studying at one of our partner universities in Paris, Grenoble, Lille, Lausanne (French), Berlin or Potsdam (German), Siena or Turin (Italian), and Madrid or Barcelona (Spanish), or working as an English language assistant or in approved employment. Students on the European Studies programmes with French are eligible to compete for an internship in Brussels. Credits from your year abroad count towards your final degree.

Teaching & Assessment

Most of the modules involve a combination of lectures, seminars, contact with a native speaker and individual study in our computer-assisted language learning laboratory.

Modules taken at Stage 1 are assessed either by 100% coursework or a 50:50 combination of coursework and examination. At Stages 2 and 3, depending on the modules you select, assessment varies from 100% coursework (extended essays or dissertation), to a combination of examination and coursework, usually in the ratio 50:50.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

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.

• A level

ABB including B in at least one of French, German, Italian or Spanish

• 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 at HL including one of French, German, Italian or Spanish 5 at SL

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.

The Bachelor of Arts in European Studies (Humanities) — Combined Languages at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education focusing on European culture, history, politics, and languages. The program is designed to develop students' critical understanding of European issues, fostering cross-cultural awareness and multilingual competencies. Students engage with a diverse range of modules covering topics such as European politics, history, literature, linguistics, and philosophy, allowing them to explore the continent’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary challenges.

A distinctive feature of this course is its emphasis on language proficiency. Students typically choose two or more European languages to study in conjunction with academic modules, enhancing their communicative skills and cultural understanding. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, translation, journalistic work, and cultural management, among other fields. It encourages research, analytical thinking, and effective communication, skills that are highly valued in globalized workplaces.

The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, language practice sessions, and independent research projects. Students have access to excellent language laboratories, libraries, and online resources, supporting their language learning and academic development. Study abroad opportunities are often available, enabling students to immerse themselves in different cultures and to attain real-world language proficiency and cultural insights.

Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of European integration, colonial history, multilingualism, and multiculturalism. The program also emphasizes employability skills, including teamwork, presentation, and critical analysis. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue careers in education, diplomacy, international business, and further postgraduate research.

The program duration is typically three years full-time, with options for part-time study. Assessment methods include coursework, presentations, language examinations, and a final-year dissertation. The University of Kent’s supportive academic staff, combined with the vibrant campus community, provides an enriching environment for students to thrive academically and personally.

Overall, the European Studies (Humanities) — Combined Languages program at the University of Kent offers a rigorous and culturally enriching education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate and contribute to a diverse and interconnected Europe.