Course Overview
Lancaster's four-year combined Spanish Studies and Politics degree is taught by our Department of European Languages and Cultures - ranked in the top ten by The Complete university Guide, 2011 - and our Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion - ranked first in the North West by the Guardian University Guide, 2011. You will also spend a year working or studying in a Spanish-speaking country, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the language and culture.
You'll complement your study and practice of the Spanish language with a wide range of options that explore Spanish society, culture, politics and history. In Politics, you'll be able to focus on areas that interest you most.
Your degree programme begins with core courses including Understanding Politics and Governance and Spanish Language (Intensive for Beginners or Advanced). As you progress, you'll be able to specialise by selecting second and final-year modules such as Power and Resistance in Spain and Spanish America: From the Spanish Empire to the 21st Century; Social Movements and Committed Writing in Mexico since 1968; Politics of Development, and Politics of the European Union.
In your third year, you'll complete the Residence Abroad: Intercultural and Academic Reflection module before returning to Lancaster to finish your degree.
For a list of compulsory modules, please see the tab above.
The language department is so friendly, the staff are really approachable and I have made some of my closest friends on my language courses.
Career opportunities
Language degrees are increasingly sought after by employers. Combining Spanish Studies with Politics opens up many career opportunities. European politics, journalism and commentary are viable, as are management and Europe-oriented sales and marketing. With strong language skills you could consider the Civil Service, Diplomatic Service, British Council or various international agencies.
Many graduates decide to remain in education, here at Lancaster and elsewhere. Postgraduate degrees open up opportunities in higher education while a professional qualification can provide a useful springboard into careers such as interpreting. You could also train to teach Spanish, Politics or English as a foreign language, either in the UK or further afield.
Entry Requirements
A-level: AAB inc. Spanish unless this is to be studied from beginners' level, in which case applicants should have evidence of language-learning ability (e.g. an AS or A-level in another foreign language or GCSE grade A in a foreign language). We normally expect three A-levels.
General Studies: Accepted as one of the 3 best grades, if 4 A-levels presented
Preference: A-levels
Key skills: Not included in offer
Scottish Highers: ABBBB
Irish Leaving Cert: Offers will be made on the basis of 5 or 6 Higher level subjects. Please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office (01524 592028) for further information
International Bacc: 35 pts overall with 16 pts from the best three HL subjects.
BTEC: Overall grades of DDD/DDM
IELTS: 6.5
For details of how we evaluate international qualifications, please click here.
Financial Support
Lancaster University's priority is to support every student to make the most of their life and education. In addition to government maintenance loans, grants and national scholarships, Lancaster University offers a range of financial support for full time UK Undergraduate students from lower-income backgrounds. Many students each year will be entitled to bursaries or scholarships to help them with the cost of fees and/or living expenses.
The Lancaster Scholarship package is designed to reward the hard work and natural ability of full-time UK students applying to study with us regardless of their household income. Students achieving A*, A, A in their A-level examinations (or equivalent academic qualifications) will receive a £1,000 per year Lancaster Scholarship during their undergraduate studies if they place us as their firm choice institution. Continuation of the Lancaster Scholarship is subject to satisfactory academic progression.
Our combined £5,000 bursary package will help students from England whose household incomes are less than £25,000 per year with fees and living costs.
Students from England eligible for our £5,000 bursary package will also be awarded a £3,000 Lancaster Scholarship if they achieve A*, A, A in their A-level examinations (or equivalent academic qualifications). This totals £8,000 of support for students during their studies.
For full details of the University's financial support packages including eligibility criteria, please visit our fees and funding page.
