Programme Information


Admission Requirements

Students wishing to read European Studies as a major should preferably have a good grade in the General Paper and good "A" level results.  There is no prerequisite or qualifying tests. The Programme welcomes students who show a keen interest in the subject.

Previous knowledge of either French or German is not required as these two languages will be taught as part of the curriculum.  For students with prior knowledge of French or German, placement tests will be conducted to enable them to pursue language modules* appropriate for their level.

* All language modules are offered by the Centre for Language Studies.  Placement tests will also be conducted by the Centre.


Content of Subject

The aim of the European Studies Programme is to enhance the student's understanding of Europe by offering two types of modules.

Firstly, there are multi-disciplinary non-language modules covering an array of disciplines such as modules which focus on European Economics and Business, Geography, History, Literature, Philosophy and Politics.

Secondly, the student is also required to take language modules in either French or German.  Language modules are grouped in a dual track system which allows students with previous knowledge of French and German to continue their study of the language, as well as providing courses for first-time learners.

Concentrating on both oral and written skills, students will achieve a level of proficiency enabling both effective interaction with native speakers and a good working knowledge of the language in specialized areas such as language for business and economics.  Students are exposed throughout the entire course to the literature, culture and the history of France and Germany in their European context.


Useful Combinations with Other Subjects

Given the multi-disciplinary nature of European Studies, it would be useful for students reading the subject to combine it with any two of the following subjects in the first year: Economics, English Language and Literature, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science and Sociology.

As students will be studying either French or German from scratch, it would be advisable for them not to take Chinese Studies, Japanese Studies or Southeast Asian Studies as these subjects require students to take language modules as well.