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Murray Edwards College
University of Cambridge

History and Modern Languages

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The joint degree in History and Modern Languages at Cambridge combines the best of both subjects. It offers the opportunity to develop near native-speaker skills in a foreign language while studying a range of papers relating to the culture and history of the relevant language area; options in some languages also include film and contemporary politics. Students will also develop analytical skills in History through a wide range of topics in British, European, American, African and Asian history, as well as Historical thinking and research skills. There will be opportunities to work with historical sources in foreign languages. As with other language students, those who take this course will spend their third year studying or working abroad, thereby immersing themselves in the language, culture, history and politics of a foreign country. More information about the course can be found on the University website.

History and Modern Languages at Murray Edwards College

At Murray Edwards, we welcome around one or two undergraduate students in History and Modern Languages each year. You will study alongside History students and those studying Modern Languages. 

Typical offer
A Level: A*AA with A* in History or relevant language
IB: 42, 776 with 7 in IB Higher Level History or relevant IB Higher Level language

Required subjects
A Level: A Level in the language (for languages to be studied post A Level)
IB: IB Higher Level in the language (for languages to be studied post IB Level)

Admissions Assessment
Murray Edwards History and Modern Languages applicants are required to take two written assessments if shortlisted for interview, one for History (the History Admissions Assessment) and one for Modern Languages.  You will not need to register in advance for these assessments and the College will provide details directly to you.

Written work
Applicants to all Colleges are required to submit two pieces of written work prior to interview. If you are applying for a post A Level language, one piece of written work should be in the language you intend to study.

Academic and teaching staff