History & Modern Languages

History and Modern Languages (HML) is a 4-year course that combines the best of both subjects. You will 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. Like other language students, you spend the third year of the course studying or working abroad, immersing yourself in the language, culture, history and politics of a foreign country. More information about the course can be found on the .

HML at 51��

At 51��, you will join a growing and welcoming community of students and academics. We welcome 1-2 undergraduates in HML each year, who study alongside both History and Modern Languages students. This gives plenty of opportunities to share and develop your ideas within College, as well as amongst the wider Cambridge HML cohort.

Typical offer

A Level: A*AA

IB: 42 (776)

Required subjects

A Level: A Level in the language (for languages to be studied post A Level)

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

Admissions assessment

Applicants are required to take the relevant Modern & Medieval Languages (MML) admissions assessment if invited for interview. You do not need to register in advance for this assessment. The College will provide details directly to you. Check the page for more details.

Written work

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

What the students say

Jaipreet Lully

When I first arrived at Medwards, I was quickly comforted by its relaxed and open feel. Whether it’s a meeting with your Director of Studies, a formal in Dome or a coffee with friends in the café, the college community will always feel like a welcoming space. There are so many college and wider Cambridge societies and socials to get involved in alongside your studies – during my first year, I’ve taken on roles both at Varsity newspaper and the Cambridge Union, which are great ways to break up the intensity of the 8-week term!

What I love about History and Modern Languages is that it’s such a dynamic course. This year, I’ve been able to study a period of South Asian History that is important to me, whilst also immersing myself in Spanish language and culture through literature and film across centuries. This variety makes for such a well-rounded experience at Cambridge. Not only have I managed to hone a breadth of historical, literary, and linguistic skills, but have also got to know so many wonderful people from both sides of my course. Although doing joint-honours can require a bit more time management than single honour degrees, it is worth it for such a refreshing learning experience!

Meet an alumna

Helen Grant

I was part of the first ever cohort of students on the joint honours History and Modern Languages Tripos. I really valued the sheer variety of topics I was able to cover, as well as the opportunity, in my final-year dissertation, to bring my two subjects together in a study of women’s cinematic depictions of the Algerian Civil War.

Although it was challenging at times, the best part was my year abroad where I spent six months working as an editorial assistant in Paris. I think this extended period of work experience really helped me kickstart my career after graduation, as well as improve my French. I also got involved with a global children’s literacy charity around this time, which paved the way for what I’m doing today.

I now work as a Communications and Campaigns Manager at the independent policy and research organisation Learning and Work Institute, and I’m also a trustee of the audiobook lending charity Listening Books. I feel incredibly lucky to work with such passionate and inspiring people. My intention is to continue on this path and to find ways to combine my work in education policy with my passion for different languages and cultures.