Language Culture and History

The BA in Language, Culture, and History at University College London offers students a comprehensive exploration of the interconnectedness of language, cultural practices, and historical developments across different regions and periods. This dynamic programme is designed to develop a deep understanding of how language influences cultural identity and societal change, as well as how historical contexts shape linguistic evolution and cultural expression. Students will engage with a diverse range of linguistic systems, cultural traditions, and historical narratives through interdisciplinary coursework that combines insights from linguistics, anthropology, history, and cultural studies. The programme provides opportunities for intensive language learning, enabling students to attain proficiency in one or more languages, and to apply linguistic analysis within cultural and historical frameworks. Critical analysis of primary and secondary sources will foster skills in evaluating historical documents, cultural artifacts, and contemporary media, promoting a nuanced perspective on complex societal issues. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific regions, periods, or themes of interest, such as European, Asian, or Middle Eastern cultures. Practical modules include language seminars, cultural analysis workshops, and historical research projects, supported by expert faculty members who are leaders in their fields. Through lectures, seminars, independent research, and fieldwork, students will develop analytical and communication skills vital for careers in academia, diplomacy, international organizations, cultural heritage management, journalism, and beyond. The programme also emphasizes the importance of intercultural competence and global awareness, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse environments. With access to UCL’s extensive library resources, archives, and research centers, students will be equipped to contribute meaningfully to scholarly discourse and societal understanding of complex cultural and historical phenomena. Graduates of this programme will leave with a rich, interdisciplinary foundation, capable of critically examining the ways language, culture, and history influence modern society and global affairs.

Students will research cultural issues of major contemporary importance in the language of their choice.The degree will also help you develop your knowledge of one or more of the languages taught in SELCS (Dutch, French, German, Italian, a Scandinavian option, Spanish and Portuguese).

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 from a range of graduate modules (90 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits). Research: one core module (30 credits), two taught modules (60 credits) and a 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 modules

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

Optional modules may include:

• Advanced Translation (Dutch, French, German, Italian, Scandinavian, Spanish)
• Advanced Language Modules (Dutch, French, German, Italian, Scandinavian, Spanish)
• Early Modern Exchanges Modules
• Medieval and Renaissance Studies Modules
• Organised Crime: Gangsters in Life and Art
• Material Encounters with Medieval Texts
• Comparative Syntax
• Witches in History, Fiction and Scholarship

Dissertation/report

All students are required to write a dissertation of 12,000 words on an approved research topic for the taught pathway and 18,000 words for the research pathway.

Teaching and learning

The programme is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Teaching is concentrated in the first two terms, with the third term devoted to revision sessions, examinations and a dissertation project. Student performance is assessed by various methods, including coursework essays, a dissertation, and unseen written examinations.

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. Applicants must have a good reading knowledge of at least one European language (Dutch, French, German, Italian, a Scandinavian option or Spanish).

Jean Orr Scholarship

Value:

£7,000 (1 year)

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

The Language, Culture, and History program at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the complex relationships between language, cultural practices, and historical developments across various regions and periods. This interdisciplinary degree combines linguistic analysis, cultural studies, and historical research, providing a broad yet detailed understanding of human communication and societal transformation. Students engage with a diverse array of topics, including the evolution of languages, the significance of cultural identity, and the historical contexts that have shaped contemporary societies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and academic writing, preparing graduates for careers in academia, publishing, cultural institutions, or international organizations. Coursework typically includes linguistics modules such as phonetics, syntax, and semantics; cultural studies focusing on media, identity, and intercultural communication; and history modules covering different eras and geographical areas. The program encourages student-led research projects, collaborative work, and engagement with contemporary issues through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from leading academics. Located in the heart of London, students benefit from access to world-class libraries, museums, and cultural venues, enriching their learning experience and enabling them to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world contexts. The program aims to foster a multilingual and multicultural perspective, with many opportunities for language practice and intercultural exchange. Graduates are equipped with analytical skills, cultural awareness, and historical knowledge, making them well suited for careers in education, diplomacy, media, translation, and heritage management. The program typically spans three years for the full-time course or four years with a year abroad or placement, ensuring a comprehensive education that combines theory and practical application.