Spanish/History

Spanish and history is a combination that brings together two disciplines with a natural affinity, since Spain and the Spanish-speaking world have histories of extraordinary complexity and global significance, and the capacity to engage with them in their own language opens up a dimension of understanding that translation alone cannot provide. Spanish is spoken by around 500 million people as a first language and is the official language of over 20 countries spanning Europe, Latin America, and beyond. History equips you with the analytical tools to interpret the past through evidence, argument, and critical thinking, and to understand how historical processes connect to the present.

At the University of Glasgow this five-year full-time programme gives you the chance to develop your Spanish to a high level of proficiency while building genuine depth in historical study. You will work with teaching staff who cover a wide range of topics in the Spanish-speaking world, including native speakers from different parts of the Spanish-speaking world, giving you exposure to the linguistic and cultural diversity that exists within the Spanish language. A sandwich year with a work placement is incorporated into the programme, providing professional experience alongside your academic development and ensuring you have practical skills to complement your linguistic and historical training.

Graduates from Spanish and history programmes pursue careers in teaching, translation, journalism, publishing, the civil service, international organisations, heritage and cultural institutions, and the diplomatic service. The combination of historical analytical skills with professional-level Spanish opens particular opportunities in Latin American studies, Iberian history, and any context where engagement with Spanish-speaking cultures is central. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in Hispanic studies, history, or international relations, where the linguistic and historical depth they have developed is a genuine asset.