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Program Description: Slovak, Czech, and East European Studies at University College London
The Slovak, Czech, and East European Studies program at University College London offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the history, politics, culture, and society of Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and the broader Eastern European region. This interdisciplinary programme provides learners with a nuanced perspective on the complex historical developments, socio-economic transformations, and contemporary political dynamics that shape this vital part of Europe. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, students engage critically with a wide array of topics including the Cold War era, post-Communist transition, nationalism, regional integration, and cultural identities within Eastern Europe.
Designed for students interested in European affairs, international relations, history, and cultural studies, the programme emphasizes language learning alongside regional expertise. Students have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of local languages such as Slovak, Czech, or other East European languages, facilitating direct engagement with primary sources and fostering cross-cultural communication skills. The curriculum integrates modules on European Union membership, economic development, and social change, equipping graduates with the analytical tools necessary to understand regional challenges and opportunities.
The programme encourages a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from history, politics, sociology, and cultural studies, to give students a holistic view of East European societies. It also offers opportunities for internships, field trips, and research projects focused on current issues affecting the region. Graduates of the programme pursue careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, and business, bringing regional expertise to a global stage. Whether students aim to work in diplomacy, policy analysis, or cultural management, the Slovak, Czech, and East European Studies programme at UCL prepares them with the knowledge, skills, and critical perspectives necessary to excel in a rapidly changing Europe.
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
Your degree will train you to the highest level of proficiency in speaking, writing and understanding in your chosen languages, whether you begin with no prior knowledge or already have a good command of the language. As you progress through the degree, compulsory language modules are tailored to your existing knowledge, and you also take a compulsory literature module each year.
You are encouraged to develop and pursue your own interests. You will choose optional modules from within three pathways:
Language and Literature
Social Science
History
Your third year is spent abroad. This will not only bring the language and culture you are studying to life, but also strengthen your resourcefulness and self-reliance. You will normally spend this year studying at a university in your chosen country, but alternatives, such as work placements, may be possible.
A levels
Grades
AAB-ABB
Subjects
No specific subjects.
GCSEs
English Language and a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C.
IB Diploma
Points
34-36
Subjects
A score of 16-17 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.
Financing studies for the Slovak, Czech, and East European Studies program at University College London are designed to support students through a variety of funding options, including scholarships, bursaries, student loans, and external funding sources. UCL offers several scholarships specifically aimed at fostering regional expertise, which often include merit-based awards, fee waivers, and travel grants for research purposes. Applicants are encouraged to explore both UCL internal funding opportunities and external scholarships provided by government bodies, charitable foundations, and European organizations focusing on East European studies.
Financial aid applications typically require a demonstration of academic excellence, a statement of purpose, and sometimes evidence of financial need. Prospective students are advised to check the deadlines and eligibility criteria for each funding source well in advance of the application cycle. Students enrolled in the program may also be eligible for teaching and research assistantships, which provide stipends and may cover tuition fees in exchange for work commitments within the university's research centers or language departments.
The program's duration is usually one year for full-time students and up to two years for part-time students. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile status; for international students, fees are generally higher than for UK residents. UCL offers payment plans and advice on managing study costs, including budgeting tips and financial advice clinics. Additionally, students can seek part-time employment opportunities through the university's career services, which often include roles related to language practice, research assistance, or administrative support within the faculty.
Given the focus on regional studies, some students may qualify for grants targeted at promoting European integration and cultural exchange, which can help offset living and study expenses. The university also provides guidance on applying for student loans from government agencies, which can be used to cover tuition and living costs. International students are advised to explore exchange programs and bilateral agreements that may include financial support or reduced tuition rates. Overall, financing studies in Slovak, Czech, and East European Studies at UCL requires proactive planning to identify suitable funding options, meet application deadlines, and make use of the support services available to maximize financial aid possibilities.
The University College London offers the program in East European Studies, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of Eastern European history, politics, culture, and society. This interdisciplinary program integrates insights from political science, history, and cultural studies to give students a well-rounded perspective on the region. Students will explore key themes such as the development of national identities, the impact of communism and transition to democracy, regional conflicts, and the role of Eastern Europe within European and global contexts. The curriculum includes core modules on the history of Eastern Europe, contemporary political issues, and cultural studies, complemented by options allowing students to specialize in particular countries or thematic areas.
The program emphasizes language skills, encouraging students to acquire proficiency in relevant Eastern European languages, which is vital for conducting research and engaging with regional sources. UCL’s extensive library and research facilities support student learning and scholarship. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to engage with primary sources, participate in seminars, and undertake independent research projects.
The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, international organizations, government, media, and NGOs that focus on Eastern European regions. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, fieldwork, and exchanges, often facilitated through UCL’s global networks. The program’s faculty comprises experts in East European history, politics, and culture, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and mentorship opportunities.
Recognized for its academic rigor and regional focus, the East European Studies program at UCL seeks to develop critical thinking and analytical skills in its students, equipping them to understand complex regional issues and contribute meaningfully to policy discussions or scholarly research. The program’s global perspective and interdisciplinary approach make it a distinctive offering within UCL’s wider suite of social sciences and area studies education.