History and a Modern Language Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

With our BA in History and a Modern Languages, you'll explore how language, culture and history shape the world around us while developing the skills to understand complex issues from different perspectives.

Our 4-year degree combines History with Chinese, French or Spanish. Alongside advanced language skills, you'll develop the confidence, resilience and independence to thrive in an international environment.

History will see you investigate the people, events and ideas that have shaped societies across the world. Drawing on expertise spanning the British Isles, Europe (East and West), Africa, Asia and the Americas, you'll make connections between the past and the issues that matter today. You'll also have the flexibility to shape your degree around your interests, exploring topics from political, social, cultural and gender history to environmental and digital history.

You'll also study one of 3 modern languages: Chinese, French or Spanish. We offer two language pathways to match your experience. If you have an A-level or simialr proficiency in your chosen language, you'll join the Upper Elementary pathway. If you're new to the language or have limited prior knowledge, you'll follow the Elementary pathway.

As your language skills develop, you'll explore the cultures, histories and societies of the regions where your chosen language is spoken. Through speaking, listening, reading, writing and mediation, you'll learn to communicate across cultures and engage with ideas that cross borders.

In your third year, you'll live, work or study abroad, immersing yourself in the culture of your chosen language. Whether you study at a partner university or complete a work placement, you'll gain first-hand international experience and use your language skills in real-world settings.

When you graduate, you'll be ready to bring people, ideas and perspectives together. You'll leave with sought-after skills in communication, analysis, creativity and problem-solving, and the confidence to contribute to conversations that shape our world.

Distinctive features of the programme

Skills for the future

Build academic, professional and transferable skills from day one through a structured programme designed to help you succeed at university and beyond.

The world is your classroom

Live, learn and gain experience overseas in your third year, studying or working in the countries where your chosen languages are spoken.

Employability focus

Take an optional credit-bearing work placement and build professional experience, confidence and industry connections while you study.

A dynamic experience

Learn from native and near-native speakers through interactive teaching that combines face-to-face learning with digital tools to build your language skills and confidence.

Extra-curricular activities

Practice your language skills beyond the classroom through conversation classes, language cafés, student societies and cultural activities that help you feel at home.