Foreign Languages and History

History and language are the keys to understanding the world and different civilizations. If you are passionate about history, proficient in foreign languages, and aspire to work in an international environment, the Foreign Languages and History program is the perfect choice for you!

Program Introduction

The Foreign Languages and History program integrates foreign language studies with world history, aiming to foster a complementary and unified learning approach between language proficiency and historical research. This program enables students to understand the general development of human civilization, the fundamental methods of world history research, and the latest academic trends. 

Students will gain a comprehensive grasp of the historical evolution of the world, as well as the history, culture, politics, society, military, and economic characteristics of their chosen country or region. By understanding and embracing different cultures, students develop a global mindset while honing their skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translation.

The program has established four major research directions:

• Western European Medieval Society and Culture

• Regional Studies of Neighboring Countries

• Ecological Civilization and Modern Society

• World War II and Cold War International History

Among these, the study of ancient and medieval world history is particularly distinguished, with research on the knightly system ranking among the top in China.

Training Objectives

The program adheres to the principle of moral and intellectual development, with a focus on interdisciplinary education. The main objectives are:

1. To train professionals with a solid foundation in foreign languages and history, capable of conducting historical research and academic exchange in a foreign language.

2. To cultivate professionals with strong cross-cultural communication skills, enabling them to engage in cultural exchange and historical research in a globalized environment.

3. To develop innovative thinkers with practical problem-solving abilities, capable of applying foreign language and historical knowledge to real-world challenges.

4. To nurture professionals with a strong sense of social responsibility and international vision, capable of contributing to cultural exchange and historical research.

Graduation Requirements

1. Master general knowledge of world history.

2. Understand the general development of human civilization and the fundamental research methods of world history.

3. Familiarize with academic history and the latest trends in the discipline.

4. Develop strong innovation awareness, creativity, and practical skills.

5. Acquire the ability to work in fields related to foreign languages and history.

Core Courses

• Foreign Language Linguistics

• Foreign Language History

• Foreign Literature

• Foreign Culture

• Translation Theory and Practice

• Cross-Cultural Communication

• Historical Philology

• Introduction to Archaeology

• International Relations

Research Directions in Foreign Languages and History

• The Interaction Between Language and Culture: Examining how language reflects and influences the formation and transmission of culture.

• Historical Development and Transformation of Specific Countries or Regions: Analyzing the historical evolution of a particular country or region and its changes in the context of globalization.

• Cross-Cultural Communication and International Relations: Studying cultural exchange patterns and their impact on international relations.

• Research on Historical Documents and Cultural Heritage: Exploring the preservation and inheritance of historical documents and cultural heritage in modern society.

Degree Awarded

Based on thesis topic, course selection, and personal preference, students may receive either a Bachelor degree, subject to departmental approval.

Career Prospects

The Foreign Languages and History program offers broad career opportunities. Graduates can work in large enterprises, foreign affairs, trade, cultural, media, or educational institutions, engaging in translation, research, teaching, and management.

Possible career paths include:

• Education Sector: Foreign language teacher, international education consultant, etc.

• Translation Industry: Interpreter, translator, localization specialist, etc.

• Cultural Exchange Institutions: Cultural exchange officer, project manager, etc.

• Government Departments: Diplomat, cultural affairs officer, etc.

• Corporate Sector: International business specialist, market research analyst, etc.

Related Majors

• History

• World History

• Archaeology

• Cultural Relics and Museum Studies

• Techniques of Relics Protection

• Cultural Heritage

• Paleography

• History of Science

Top Universities Offering Foreign Languages and History

1. Peking University

2. Beijing Foreign Studies University