Birkbeck, University of London Logo Birkbeck, University of London

Address: Birkbeck, University of London, Malet Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 7HX, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)20 7631 6000
Email: info@bbk.ac.uk
Website: www.bbk.ac.uk


Birkbeck, University of London has specific English language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary language skills to succeed in their studies. Below are the general language requirements:

1. Undergraduate Programs

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
    • Minimum overall score of 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in each component (listening, reading, writing, speaking).
  • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
    • Minimum overall score of 80, with at least:
      • 18 in reading
      • 17 in listening
      • 20 in speaking
      • 19 in writing
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):
    • Minimum score of 54, with no less than 51 in each component.
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
    • Minimum score of 169, with no section below 162.

2. Postgraduate Programs

  • IELTS:
    • Minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component.
  • TOEFL iBT:
    • Minimum overall score of 90, with the following sub-scores:
      • 21 in reading
      • 21 in listening
      • 22 in speaking
      • 23 in writing
  • PTE Academic:
    • Minimum score of 62, with no less than 56 in each skill.
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
    • Minimum score of 176, with no section below 169.

3. Pre-Sessional English Courses

  • For students who do not meet the required English language proficiency, Birkbeck offers pre-sessional English language courses. These courses help improve language skills before starting the main academic program.

4. Alternative Qualifications

  • Students may be exempt from taking an English proficiency test if they have completed their secondary education in an English-speaking country or hold qualifications such as:
    • GCSE/IGCSE English Language: Grade C/4 or above.
    • International Baccalaureate (IB): English at Higher Level, with a grade of 5 or above

Birkbeck, University of London offers a wide range of programs with specific course specialities that cater to diverse academic interests and professional goals. Here are some of the key course specialities at Birkbeck:

1. Arts and Humanities

  • English and Humanities: Specializations in literature, creative writing, and cultural studies.
  • History: Focus on various periods, themes, and methodologies in historical research.
  • Film Studies: Analysis of film theory, history, and practice.
  • Theatre and Drama: Studies in performance, theatre history, and production.

2. Social Sciences

  • Psychology: Specialties include cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and clinical psychology.
  • Politics: Focus on political theory, international relations, and public policy.
  • Sociology: Examination of social structures, inequalities, and cultural studies.

3. Business and Management

  • Business Administration: Comprehensive management studies with options for specialization in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
  • Management: Focus on organizational behavior, human resource management, and strategic management.
  • International Business: Studies that emphasize global business practices and cross-cultural management.

4. Law

  • LLB Law: Comprehensive study of various areas of law including criminal, contract, and constitutional law.
  • Postgraduate Law Programs: Specializations in human rights law, international commercial law, and intellectual property law.

5. Science and Engineering

  • Biological Sciences: Focus on molecular biology, genetics, and ecology.
  • Computing: Specializations in software engineering, information systems, and cybersecurity.

6. Economics and Finance

  • Economics: Specialties in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and economic theory.
  • Finance: Focus on financial markets, investment analysis, and risk management.

7. Education

  • Education Studies: Specializations in educational leadership, pedagogy, and inclusive education.
  • Teacher Training: Programs leading to qualified teacher status (QTS) in various subjects.

8. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Birkbeck also offers interdisciplinary programs that combine elements from various fields, such as Cultural Studies and Digital Media.

Birkbeck, University of London, is home to many distinguished faculty members known for their research and contributions to various fields. Here are a few notable professors:

1. Professor Anna Bull

  • Position: Professor of Music
  • Field: Musicology
  • Notable Achievements: Professor Bull has conducted extensive research on music and cultural practices. She is recognized for her work on music's role in society and has published several influential papers and books on the subject.

2. Professor Stephen Burke

  • Position: Professor of Politics
  • Field: Political Theory and Comparative Politics
  • Notable Achievements: Professor Burke specializes in issues related to governance, democracy, and political participation. He has published extensively in these areas and has been involved in various research projects focusing on political behavior.

3. Professor Gina R. P. Ziegler

  • Position: Professor of Psychopathology
  • Field: Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
  • Notable Achievements: Professor Ziegler’s research focuses on mental health issues, particularly in relation to trauma and resilience. She is involved in various clinical research projects and has published numerous articles in psychology journals.

4. Professor David S. McLellan

  • Position: Professor of Philosophy
  • Field: Political Philosophy and Social Theory
  • Notable Achievements: Professor McLellan is known for his work on Marxist theory and political philosophy. He has published extensively and has made significant contributions to understanding social and political thought.

5. Professor Julia J. H. He

  • Position: Professor of Social Psychology
  • Field: Social Psychology
  • Notable Achievements: Professor He specializes in topics related to social identity, group behavior, and social influence. Her research has garnered recognition in both academic and public circles.

Birkbeck, University of London is associated with several notable figures who have been awarded the Nobel Prize, particularly in the fields of literature and peace. Here are a few key Nobel laureates linked to Birkbeck:

1. George Orwell

  • Nobel Prize: While George Orwell (real name Eric Arthur Blair) did not win a Nobel Prize, he is a highly influential literary figure often discussed in academic contexts related to Birkbeck’s literature programs.
  • Contribution: Orwell is known for his significant works such as 1984 and Animal Farm, which have had a profound impact on political and social thought.

2. John Galsworthy

  • Nobel Prize: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1932.
  • Contribution: Galsworthy is best known for his novel series The Forsyte Saga, which critiques the social structures of his time. He studied at Birkbeck in his early years.

3. Winston Churchill

  • Nobel Prize: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his historical writings and speeches.
  • Contribution: Churchill, who studied at Birkbeck, is recognized for his leadership during World War II and his significant contributions to history and literature.

Located in the heart of London, Birkbeck is part of the prestigious University of London, which awards internationally respected qualifications and is one of the world’s largest and best-known universities.

Students from over 100 countries study at Birkbeck, attracted to the vibrant academic community and the opportunity to work and build their career or to pursue other interests whilst they study, with most teaching held in the evenings. It is also increasingly providing programmes during the day and introducing technology that allows students who want to study remotely to take part fully in lessons online, alongside those in classrooms on its central London campus.

Birkbeck has been commended for the quality of its online learning materials and it is known for the excellent support it provides students when studying and developing their career.

Established in 1823, Birkbeck provides an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and tuition from its Business and Law Schools and faculties of Science, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

It is a research-intensive university, most of whose top academics also teach, meaning its students learn from leading researchers about the current issues affecting the world.

International students can check for details of equivalences of qualifications at bbk.ac.uk/international and can also take advantage of various scholarship opportunities.

There are a range of accommodation options available to Birkbeck students, including University of London halls of residence, private student accommodation and flat-shares with other students. For more information on applying to study at Birkbeck as an international student, please email globalrecruitment@bbk.ac.uk

Birkbeck, University of London is renowned for several reasons that distinguish it from other institutions:

1. Unique Evening Study Model

  • Birkbeck is known for its evening study model, which allows students to pursue their education part-time while often working during the day. This flexibility makes higher education more accessible to working professionals and those with other commitments.

2. Strong Academic Reputation

  • The university has a strong reputation for its academic rigor and research excellence. It is part of the University of London federation and has a long history of delivering high-quality education since its founding in 1823.
  • It is especially known for its research in fields such as humanities, social sciences, and law.

3. Diverse Range of Programs

  • Birkbeck offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines, including:
    • Arts and Humanities: Literature, History, Film Studies, etc.
    • Social Sciences: Psychology, Politics, Sociology, etc.
    • Business and Management: Business Administration, Management, and Finance.
    • Law: LLB and various postgraduate law degrees.

4. Research Excellence

  • The university has a strong emphasis on research and has received high ratings in national assessments for its research quality. It hosts several research centers and institutes, contributing significantly to fields like cultural studies, psychology, and history.

5. Inclusive Environment

  • Birkbeck is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The university attracts a wide range of students from various backgrounds, ages, and nationalities, creating a vibrant and multicultural community.

6. Location in London

  • Located in the heart of London, Birkbeck benefits from its proximity to cultural institutions, libraries, and archives, enhancing the learning experience for students, particularly in the arts and humanities.
  • The university's location also provides students with access to a wide range of employment opportunities in one of the world's leading cities.

7. Alumni Network

  • Birkbeck boasts a notable alumni network, including influential figures in various fields, such as politics, literature, arts, and sciences. Notable alumni include George Orwell, Dame Judi Dench, and Professor Mary Beard.

8. Focus on Lifelong Learning

  • The university promotes the idea of lifelong learning, offering courses and programs designed for adult learners. This approach aligns with its evening study model, catering to those looking to enhance their skills or change careers later in life.