BA in Translation Studies with History of Art and Visual Culture with a Year Abroad, Royal Holloway University of London

48 Months

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About this course

This four-year degree course blends practical translation skills with a deep engagement in the History of Art and Visual Culture. Designed for students who aim to become fluent in French, German, Italian, or Spanish, it emphasizes developing communication, research, and cross-cultural understanding. The course explores works of art from various periods and cultures, cultivating creative and analytical skills. Students will have the opportunity in their third year to study, work, or teach abroad, immersing themselves in another language and culture to broaden their horizons. The course also emphasizes critical understanding of translation theories and practices, with a focus on translating into English, and is supported by research staff who rank in the top 10 UK Modern Languages departments for research quality.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students who want to gain fluency in a modern language while exploring the rich fields of visual culture and art history. The opportunity to spend a year abroad adds significant international experience and cultural immersion, which enhances employability in global careers. With a strong emphasis on practical translation skills and critical analysis, students develop a versatile skill set that is highly valued in diverse sectors such as media, arts, law, and international business.

Specialisation

Students will focus on translation studies, learning practical skills in translation and interpretation, and engaging with texts across multiple media such as literature, film, and visual arts. The curriculum includes modules that develop linguistic competence in French, German, Italian, and Spanish, along with methods of critical analysis, cultural understanding, and professional translation practices.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

27.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need at least five GCSEs at grade A*-C including English and Mathematics. For the language pathway, an A-level in at least one language (French, German, Italian, or Spanish) is required, with a grade B in the chosen language for the advanced pathway. Other qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate and various national diplomas are also accepted. English language proficiency must be demonstrated through tests like IELTS, with a minimum overall score of 6.5 and a writing score of 7.0.

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 admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will possess excellent communication, analytical, and research skills, making them highly employable. Career paths include international management, consultancy, media, publishing, arts, politics, civil service, translation and interpretation, teaching, travel, tourism, and more. The course's emphasis on intercultural competence and translation expertise prepares students for roles in global business, law, arts, and languages, with many going on to further study or entering diverse professional fields.

FAQs

Can I study the course if I'm a beginner in languages?

Yes, the course is designed for students at various levels of language proficiency. By graduation, you will be fluent in one or two languages, regardless of your starting point.

Is there an opportunity to study abroad?

Absolutely. In your third year, you can study, work, or teach abroad to immerse yourself in another language and culture, which is a core part of the degree.