University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Modern Languages and History

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a dynamic academic journey with the BA Modern Languages and History at the University of Reading, a degree designed for those fascinated by the intricate connections between global cultures and historical events. This undergraduate programme equips you to explore diverse historical contexts, from the making of modern nations to the nuances of cultural revolutions, while simultaneously developing proficiency in a modern language such as French, German, Italian, or Spanish. You will delve into historiography and methodologies, learning to critically analyse the past and understand how different societies have evolved, preparing you for a world that increasingly values cross-cultural understanding and historical perspective.

This full-time, on-campus degree, typically studied over four years, offers a flexible structure allowing you to tailor your learning through a wide array of optional modules, from exploring the impact of warfare in early modern Europe to analysing cinema in modern Germany or the complexities of identity in the Hispanic world. You will engage with primary sources, refine your research skills, and potentially undertake an extended essay or dissertation in your final year. You will graduate with a robust understanding of historical analysis and advanced language skills, opening doors to careers in international relations, diplomacy, cultural heritage, education, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA program offers a comprehensive exploration of modern history alongside advanced language study in French, German, Italian, or Spanish. Students will engage with diverse historical periods and themes, from the First World War to contemporary European issues, while developing sophisticated linguistic and cultural competencies. The curriculum encourages critical thinking about historical narratives, cultural representations, and the intricate relationship between language, identity, and society across different European and Latin American contexts.

1 YEAR 1

Perspectives in History
Making History and You: Practices and Possibilities
Beginners French, German, Italian or Spanish Language
Intermediate French, German, Italian or Spanish Language
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language I
Ideas of Frenchness 1
The Making of Contemporary Germany
Making Italians: A Journey in the History and Culture of Modern Italy
The Making of Modern Spain and Latin America

2 YEAR 2

Intermediate French, German, Italian or Spanish Language
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language I
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language II
The First World War: Then and Now
Cinema of Germany
'Apocalittici e integrati': Intellectuals and Society in Twentieth Century Italy
Transatlantic Exchanges: Latin America in the Global Nineteenth Century
Culture and Revolution in Modern Latin America
How to Think in French
Children’s Books in France
Glorification, Denial and Contempt – Reconstructing Austria's Past
One Country, Many Languages: Linguistic Variety and Society in Contemporary Italy
Modern and Contemporary Spanish Narratives

3 YEAR 3

4 YEAR 4

Language and Power
Identity and Conflict in Modern Europe
Extended Essay
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language I
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language II
Advanced French, German, Italian or Spanish Language III
The German Language and National identity
Crisis, Change, Opportunity: Italy from 1968 to the Present
Memory, Dictatorship and Cultural Resistance in the Southern Cone
Future Worlds in Film
Narrating the Colombian Conflict
Writers and Publishers in Spain
War on Screen - Germany and its films about WWII
Language, Diversity, and Inclusion: The Representation of Otherness in the Italian Context

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,521.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAdvertising Finance & OperationsAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Safety & RegulationClient Services & Account ManagementDigital MarketingMedia Research & AnalyticsMedical Research & Clinical TrialsPerformance & Growth MarketingSocial Media & Content Strategy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Council

Kings College London

Manchester City Council

NHS

Why Study BA Modern Languages and History at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Modern Languages and History at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For Duolingo, you need an overall score of 135 with specific requirements across comprehension, conversation, and other areas. Similar conditions apply for TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE; please ensure you meet these before applying.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles such as Translator, Language Teacher, Historian, and International Relations Specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree allows you to study a modern language, such as French or Spanish, alongside history. You'll gain transferable global skills and be part of a multilingual community.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Modern Languages and History program has an intake period in September. Make sure to apply before this month to secure your place.
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