About the School
Intellectual and creative vitality give our School a strong sense of community and identity.
Our innovative programmes are taught by staff at the cutting edge of their subject, encouraging students to explore and interpret different aspects of culture and the humanities subjects.
The many transferable skills students develop are a clear advantage in today's job market - at the same time enriching their understanding and enjoyment of culture.
First-class tuition - in independent national assessments over nine years we achieved top grades for English language and communication, English literature, history and philosophy.
Undergraduate programmes give students a choice of over 150 modules and the chance to specialise as their studies progress. Full-time students have the option of a year's study overseas.
A lively programme of evening classes, short courses and conferences open to the public promotes wider appreciation of the humanities subjects.
Learning Environment
The School enjoys a purpose-built, high-specification teaching and learning environment in an attractive modern setting at the de Havilland campus. Here around 700 students from many different backgrounds are studying with us, either on a full or part-time basis.
Flexible programmes let students follow personal interests and academic or career development needs. At undergraduate level, they can study a single subject honours degree, or broaden their horizons by studying two, three or four subjects through a joint honours or combined studies programme.
Subject choices include traditional areas such as English language and communication, English literature, history, modern languages and philosophy, as well as contemporary topics like creative writing, digital publishing, film, journalism and media cultures.
Taught postgraduate study offers MA degree, certificate and diploma programmes in history and literature.
Our academic staff of 60 works hard to create a stimulating and supportive learning environment where students' well-being and views are highly valued.
21st Century Resources
World-class facilities help students to progress their learning and present coursework professionally. These include the University's technology-rich, 24/7 Learning Resources Centres and groundbreaking e-learning environment StudyNet, as well as private study and computer suites.
The campus also offers some of the best cultural facilities for miles around - the University's 460-seat Weston Auditorium is a stunning performance space and a major arts resource in the region.
Community And Partnerships
Sharing our knowledge and creative resources with others fosters strong community relationships. Events open to the public cater for a variety of interests, including language evening classes, short courses in journalism, and philosophy research seminars.
Input from an advisory panel of business and public service professionals helps to set the School's future direction and keep programmes fresh and career-relevant.
While close links with prestigious bodies, such as the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Heritage Lottery Foundation and The Mind Association, attract valuable research funding.
Research Focus
We're recognised nationally and internationally for our research excellence, with particular strengths in English language and communication, English literature, history and philosophy.
Activities are organised into four groups and extend across a wide variety of projects. Hertfordshire history, London crime and poverty 1700-1900, Renaissance and Victorian literature, historical linguistics, and diagnosis of the problems of personal identity are just some of our areas of expertise.
This thriving and distinct research culture is also evident in our seminar and conference programme.
International Outlook
Studying abroad provides the opportunity to travel, meet new people and experience a different way of life. Our undergraduates have the option of spending their third year studying overseas in Australia , Europe or North America .
In Hatfield, international students can study specially designed diploma and BA honours programmes in mass communications. Covering digital publishing, film, journalism and media cultures, they are an ideal preparation for postgraduate or further vocational study.
Mission Statement
The School's mission is to provide learning opportunities for students, encouraging intellectual ambition in a flexible and supportive environment. It will support staff in their provision of stimulating teaching and in their production of research of national and international excellence. Intellectual and creative vitality give our School a strong sense of community and identity.