History and Language (Part-Time) Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

This BA in History and Language (Part-Time) is uniquely designed to blend the study of historical narratives with language acquisition, offering students the chance to delve into diverse cultures through both history and modern languages. The programme is structured to provide a thorough understanding of historical contexts while simultaneously fostering language proficiency in one of several languages, including French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin Chinese.

Why History and Language at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck stands out as one of the top institutions for history research in the UK, having been ranked in the top eight according to the 2021 Research Excellence Framework. Located in the historic Bloomsbury area, students benefit from access to premier research resources, including the British Museum and the British Library. The university's School of Historical Studies is home to a vibrant community of scholars and offers numerous student societies and research centres that host seminars and conferences, enriching the academic experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the History and Language (Part-Time) course are as follows:

• International students: £13,875 per year
• Home students: £7,145 per year (subject to confirmation for the 2026-27 academic year)

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to enhance both historical understanding and language skills. Key modules include:

• Approaching the Past
• Exploring the Past
• Writing the Past: Dissertation
• Language learning modules (various levels)
• History option modules, including:
• African Modernities
• Crossing Borders: Passports, Bodies and the State, 1600 to Today
• Epidemics and Pandemics in History
• The Cold War: A Global History
• People and their Things: Material Worlds from the Renaissance to Today

This structure not only provides a solid foundation in historical analysis but also equips students with the language skills necessary for engaging with primary texts and cultural contexts.

Careers with History and Language

Graduates of the BA in History and Language will possess a diverse skill set applicable across various fields. Potential career paths include positions as heritage managers, museum curators, archivists, translators, and educators. The programme prepares students for roles that require strong research capabilities, effective communication, and cultural awareness, making them well-suited for careers in education, the arts, social work, and government sectors.