Program Overview

Global Studies and Modern Languages at Essex explores the complex modern world in which we live. You will examine how the problems and developments of today are profoundly international in character. Globalisation has led to a shrinking of borders as travel has increased and information technology has developed rapidly. Yet, the borders constituted by language communities continue to exert a strong influence on the character of the globalised world and effective inter-language communication remains as essential as ever.

This course allows you to choose modules from many academic disciplines, including history, sociology, philosophy and politics, in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex problems in the modern world. Within these you will examine issues such as:

• Nature and the environment
• Migration
• International development
• War and areas of political strain
• Information technology

Language is fundamental to our thought, our relationships, and our civilisations. Alongside your Global Studies modules, you will also become fluent in your choice of one or more modern languages. You will spend your third year abroad immersing yourself in another culture and enhancing your language skills.

By studying within our Interdisciplinary Studies Centre (ISC), you will have access to expertise in modern languages, literature, film, history of art, history, politics and sociology, and more, with contributions from experienced staff from around the University.

Study abroad

Your education extends beyond the university campus. We support you in expanding your education through offering the opportunity to spend a year or a term studying abroad at one of our partner universities. The four-year version of our degree allows you to spend the third year abroad or employed on a placement abroad.

Studying abroad allows you to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically, and to demonstrate to employers that you are mature, adaptable, and organised.

If you spend a full year abroad you'll only pay 15% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year. You won't pay any tuition fees to your host university.