BA in Modern Languages and History of Art and Visual Culture (with year Abroad), Royal Holloway, University of London - Egham

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This BA program offers a joint study of modern languages and the history of art and visual culture. Over four years full time, students will develop fluency in one of French, German, Italian, or Spanish, regardless of their starting level. The course combines language learning rooted in native speaker instruction with exploring the literature, art, and cultural history of the respective language area—from seventeenth-century theatre to contemporary visual arts and fashion. Students will also have the opportunity to spend a year abroad, immersing themselves in another culture through work, study, or teaching. The program aims to develop strong communication, research, and analytical skills, giving students a deep understanding of culture, society, and history of the language area studied, which can offer a competitive edge in a globalized world.

Why this course is highly recommended

This degree is ideal for students interested in becoming proficient in a modern language while gaining a deep understanding of its cultural context through art and visual culture. It is supported by highly regarded research staff, placing Royal Holloway in the UK's top 10 for research quality in modern languages. The course offers unique access to collections like the Victorian Art housed in the Founder’s Picture Gallery, and it prepares students for a wide range of careers in international fields such as media, arts, law, and consultancy, thanks to its emphasis on cross-cultural perspectives, analytical skills, and practical language abilities.

Specialisation

Students can choose to specialise in French, German, Italian, or Spanish, with options tailored to your proficiency level—beginners, advanced, or native speaker. The course emphasizes linguistic fluency, cultural, literary, and artistic exploration, and provides options to focus on areas like film, art history, or visual culture. A dedicated third-year year abroad facilitates cultural immersion and practical language use, and optional modules cover topics across visual arts, cinema, and intercultural communication.

Course fees

Application fees

27.34L

1st year tuition fees

27.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need A levels of ABB-BBB, with at least a B grade in the relevant language for advanced pathways. A minimum of five GCSEs at grades A*-C including English and Maths is required. International qualifications are also accepted, with specific criteria detailed for different countries. For non-native speakers, a good command of English is required, with minimum scores such as IELTS 6.5 overall, with no subscore below 5.5, and other equivalent English proficiency tests accepted.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Royal Holloway, University of London - Egham admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will have excellent communication, analytical, and research skills suited to fast-changing, international environments. The degree prepares students for careers in international business, media, arts, law, translation, teaching, consultancy, and beyond. The combination of language proficiency and cultural knowledge makes students highly employable in fields such as management, media, publishing, banking, politics, civil service, marketing, and travel. Many alumni also go on to further study in various disciplines.

FAQs

What languages can I learn in this course?

You can learn French, German, Italian, or Spanish, choosing between beginner, advanced, or native speaker levels.

Is there a year abroad?

Yes, in your third year, you will have the opportunity to study, work, or teach abroad to immerse yourself in another language and culture.

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants need ABB-BBB at A-level, with specific subject requirements, and at least five GCSEs at grades A*-C including English and Maths. International students are also welcome and need to meet English language proficiency standards.