Hungarian and East European Studies

Program Overview:

The MSc in Hungarian and East European Studies at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the history, politics, culture, and societies of Hungary and the broader Eastern European region. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students interested in understanding the complex dynamics that have shaped Central and Eastern Europe, both historically and in contemporary contexts. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and research projects, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the political developments, social transformations, and cultural trajectories of these regions.

Throughout the course, students will examine key themes such as post-communist transitions, nationalism, identity formation, migration, and regional integration. They will engage critically with primary and secondary sources, fostering analytical skills essential for careers in academia, policy analysis, journalism, or international organizations. The program emphasizes linguistic competence and encourages students to develop proficiency in Hungarian and other regional languages, facilitating nuanced engagement with local sources and communities.

Faculty members are renowned experts in Eastern European studies, offering personalized supervision and mentorship. The program also provides opportunities for internships, field trips, and participation in conferences, enabling students to connect with practitioners and policymakers involved in regional issues. Graduates emerge equipped with a deep understanding of East European affairs, advanced research skills, and a global perspective, preparing them for roles in academia, government, NGOs, and diplomatic services. With its flexible structure, the MSc allows students to tailor their studies to specific interests within the region, making it an ideal choice for those committed to contributing to the understanding and development of Hungary and its neighboring nations.

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 language, 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. You will also take a compulsory literature module each year.

You will be encouraged to develop and pursue your own interests by choosing 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.

The University College London offers a range of financing options to support students enrolled in the Hungarian and East European Studies program. Students have access to various scholarships, grants, and bursaries designed to alleviate financial burdens and facilitate access to high-quality education. UCL's scholarships for international and domestic students include the UCL Global Scholarship Programme, which offers full and partial fee waivers based on academic merit and financial need. Additionally, students can apply for external funding from government bodies, charitable foundations, and international organizations that support studies in East European regions. The university also provides information about student loans compatible with the UK financial system, although eligibility depends on residency status and course specifics. Furthermore, some students may qualify for work-study opportunities or paid internships related to their field of study, providing practical experience and additional income. UCL's Student Funding Office offers personalized guidance and resources to help applicants understand available funding and plan their finances effectively throughout their studies. International students should explore country-specific scholarships or sponsorship programs that may be applicable based on their nationality or home country agreements with the UK. The university also encourages students to consider part-time employment options on or near campus, which can help cover living expenses while gaining relevant experience. Tuition fee arrangements vary according to residency status: UK students, EU students, and international students all have different fee structures, and students are advised to review specific costs on the university's website. Financial support is also available for students facing exceptional circumstances, such as health issues or family emergencies, through special bursary programs. Overall, UCL remains committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to its Hungarian and East European Studies program, offering a comprehensive suite of funding opportunities and support services to assist students throughout their academic journey.

The University College London offers a comprehensive program in Hungarian and East European Studies, designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the historical, political, cultural, and social dynamics of Hungary and Eastern Europe. This interdisciplinary programme combines modules from different faculties, allowing students to explore the region's complex history, contemporary issues, and cultural diversity through various academic lenses. The curriculum typically includes language training in Hungarian, enabling students to develop functional proficiency that supports further research and practical engagement with the region. Students also study key topics such as Eastern European political transformations, economic developments, and regional conflicts, alongside cultural studies covering literature, art, and film from the area. The program emphasizes both academic research and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, diplomatic service, journalism, academia, or regional development agencies. Students benefit from the university’s extensive resources, including its libraries, research centers, and connections with institutions specializing in international studies. The teaching staff comprises experts in Hungarian and Eastern European languages, history, politics, and culture, providing students with mentorship and academic guidance. Opportunities for study abroad or internships in Hungary and other Eastern European countries are often part of the programme, offering experiential learning and professional networking. This programme is suitable for students interested in understanding the deeper geopolitical and cultural contexts of Eastern Europe, with an aim to foster critical thinking, intercultural competence, and regional expertise.