Hispanic Studies — Language Culture and History

Hispanic Studies – Language, Culture, and History at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse and dynamic Spanish-speaking world. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to develop students’ proficiency in the Spanish language while providing comprehensive insights into the rich cultural, historical, and social contexts of Spain and Latin America. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, media, and scholarly debates, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for understanding the complexities of Hispanic identities and societies. The programme combines language acquisition with the study of literature, history, politics, and cultural practices, allowing students to examine issues such as migration, identity, globalization, and postcolonialism from multiple perspectives. Through lectures, seminars, and projects, learners will gain practical communication skills and intercultural competence, preparing them for careers in international relations, journalism, education, translation, or further academic research. The curriculum is flexible, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with options to study abroad in Spanish-speaking countries, participate in language immersion programmes, or undertake specialised modules in Latin American or Iberian studies. Our faculty members are experts in their fields, committed to delivering engaging, research-led teaching that encourages originality and scholarly curiosity. Graduates of the programme will leave with a profound understanding of the linguistic intricacies, cultural expressions, and historical developments of the Hispanic world, equipped to contribute meaningfully to global discussions and professional environments that value multilingual and multicultural expertise. This programme is ideal for students passionate about languages, history, and cross-cultural communication, seeking to develop a nuanced understanding of a vibrant and influential part of the world.

The programme offers a broad range of course options in Hispanic cultures from the early modern period to the present day, alongside relevant training in research skills and methodologies. Students develop a knowledge and understanding of the key aspects and complex concepts used to understand Hispanic literature, film and culture.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme offers two pathways: taught and research. Taught: one core module (30 credits), three optional modules (90 credits), dissertation (60 credits). Research: one core module (30 credits), two taught modules (60 credits), dissertation (90 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma, one core module (30 credits), three optional modules (90 credits) full-time nine months or part-time two years, is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate, one core module (30 credits), one optional module (30 credits) full-time three months, part-time six months, is offered.

Core module

• Language, Culture and History. This core module permits research into two areas of major contemporary interest; for example, topics explored during the current year include the following:
• Trauma
• Memory
• Visual Culture
• Queer(y)ing Sexuality

Optional modules

Students take a choice of optional modules on topics such as the following:

• Spanish Film
• The Works of Jorge Luis Borges
• The Conquest of Mexico
• New Argentine Cinemas
• How to Make an Eight-Minute Documentary
• Advanced Translation from and into Spanish

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project on a literary, cultural or historical topic, which culminates in a 12,000-word dissertation (taught pathway) or 18,000-word dissertation (research pathway), written in Spanish or English.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, classes and tutorials. Students are encouraged to undertake independent reading both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught. Students are assessed by a variety of methods, including long essays, take-home exams, and the dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A knowledge of Spanish at least equivalent to UK A level standard is required. Applications from students who do not have formal qualifications in Spanish but who are competent in the language, will be considered.

The financing of the Hispanic Studies — Language Culture and History program at University College London is primarily supported through a variety of funding sources aimed at ensuring access and academic excellence. Students enrolled in this program may have the opportunity to apply for undergraduate and postgraduate funding options, including government grants, scholarships, and bursaries. UCL offers a range of scholarships specifically for students studying modern foreign languages and humanities, which can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships are often merit-based, considering academic achievement, language proficiency, and extracurricular involvement, and are awarded on a competitive basis. Additionally, there are need-based bursaries designed to support students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to reduce economic barriers to higher education. International students are encouraged to seek external funding sources from their home countries, such as government sponsorships, cultural exchange grants, and private scholarships aimed at promoting international academic exchange. The university also provides guidance and resources to help students explore part-time work opportunities during their studies, which can provide supplementary income. For postgraduate students, research grants and assistantships may be available, supporting thesis work, research projects, and conference participation. Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's domicile status (UK/EU or international) and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate). UCL maintains transparent fee structures, with detailed information accessible on their official website. Payment plans and financial advice are offered to help manage costs effectively. It’s important to note that funding landscapes are subject to change annually based on government policy and university funding allocations. UCL encourages prospective students to explore all available funding options early and to contact the university's financial aid office for personalized advice. Moreover, some students may secure external funding through partnerships with cultural institutions, government agencies, or international organisations interested in promoting Hispanic language and cultural studies. Overall, the program's financing ecosystem is designed to support diverse student backgrounds and promote accessibility to higher education in Hispanic Studies.

Hispanic Studies — Language, Culture and History at University College London offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the diverse Spanish-speaking worlds. The programme is designed to develop students' proficiency in the Spanish language while providing a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and literary contexts that have shaped Hispanic societies over centuries. Throughout the course, students engage with key themes such as the history of Spain and Latin America, contemporary social issues, linguistic variation, and the rich literary traditions from classical to modern times. The curriculum combines language learning with area studies, allowing students to analyze cultural phenomena through a multidisciplinary approach that includes history, literature, politics, and sociology.

The programme is structured to provide both linguistic and critical skills. Students undertake modules in advanced Spanish language, translation, and intercultural communication, along with optional courses covering topics like Spanish history, Latin American studies, and literary analysis. The teaching methods include lectures, seminars, language workshops, and independent research projects, encouraging active participation and critical thinking. UCL’s Hispanic Studies programme also emphasizes experiential learning opportunities, such as studying abroad in Spanish-speaking countries, which enhances language proficiency and cultural competence.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in international relations, education, translation, journalism, and cultural management. The programme also serves as a solid foundation for postgraduate study or research in fields related to Hispanic Studies. The department's integration of language skills with cultural and historical knowledge ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the Hispanic world, preparing them to engage with global cultural and political issues effectively. The programme’s academic staff are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and research opportunities that deepen students' academic pursuits and practical skills. UCL’s central London location provides access to extensive libraries, cultural institutions, and networks, enriching the learning experience and opportunities beyond the classroom.