Modern Languages and History

Birmingham’s fusion of language and culture places employability at its heart, preparing you to live and work as an engaged citizen of the world.

The undergraduate study of either French, German or Spanish from beginner or advanced level alongside History is highly complementary and an exciting way to contextualise your knowledge in each discipline. Researching primary sources is a key feature of any undergraduate History degree course, and studying a language dramatically increases the range of primary sources that you will be able to access. At the University of Birmingham, language is taught through the lens of the target culture's literature, history, politics and society, and through total immersion on the Year Abroad.

Why study this course?

Study differently - with our CLIL (Content Language Integrated Learning) teaching method. CLIL is a blended approach to language learning, based on a fusion of language and culture: study language, grammar and vocabulary in direct relation to topics of real cultural significance in your chosen language.

Tailor your own undergraduate degree - pursue your passions throughout your degree with a wide range of specialist optional modules that span a huge chronological range and most of the globe.

Multicultural city – Learn and Live in a vibrant city that is culturally, ethnically and religiously diverse. Join a number of language and culture-based societies at the University of Birmingham to further enhance your skills.

Present day application – our modules explore how the past informs the present and provides a global historical understanding from the Middle Ages to this century, all through a modern lens.

A supportive environment and rewarding student experience - You will receive one-to-one support on coursework and feedback. You will also join two vibrant communities and have access to Modern Languages and History society events, including cultural trips, podcasts, quizzes and celebrations.

35th for Modern Languages in the Guardian University Guide 2024

13th for History in the Complete University Guide 2023

Top 100 for History in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2023