History and Modern Languages

History and modern languages is a combination that brings together two of the most powerful tools for understanding the past and engaging with the present: the historian's ability to research evidence and construct arguments about how and why events unfolded, and the linguist's ability to access different cultures and literatures directly through their original languages. At the University of Exeter, this three-year full-time programme offers a unique combination that connects historical study with language and literature, an option that students find hard to find elsewhere.

You will develop your skills in historical research and analysis, engaging with primary sources, historiographical debates, and the study of different periods and geographical contexts, alongside your language proficiency and cultural understanding in your chosen modern language or languages. The programme includes a sandwich year with a year abroad and work placement, giving you the combination of international cultural immersion and professional experience that both employers and graduate schools value. Entry typically requires around 136 UCAS tariff points.

History and modern languages graduates work in journalism, the diplomatic service, education, archives and heritage, publishing, cultural institutions, international business, the civil service, and international organisations. The combination of deep historical knowledge with language skills is particularly valuable for roles at the intersection of history and international affairs. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in history, languages, or related disciplines.