University College London - UCL (reviews)

I do English BA and it’s… a lot to say the least. There are tutorial essays to be done every two weeks and seminar and lecture reading which end up piling up towards the middle of the terms. Lectures are okay but most of them are so random and unhelpful. There is way to much expectation for readings and because of this a lot of students as well as myself end up choosing a select few to study in detail rather than aiming to study them all. Exam advice is pretty mid too, no help given with how to structure or write an essay you’re sort of expected to just do it. You’re thrown into tutorials with little help and only the meetings with a tutor are really helpful for tips and criticism. Overall, I loved some of the texts and a select few seminars were a godsend with how helpful they were – and that was because of the lecturer herself being excellent – and I met my best friend here, but apart from that the programme itself is flawed. Sense of community in societies and careers events and help is outstanding! So it’s a 50/50 love hate sort of thing.

As an international student in Language and Culture, UCL has become more than just a university – it’s a transformative experience. Here, I’ve found academic excellence and a vibrant, accepting community that’s fostered my personal and professional growth.

UCL’s academic reputation precedes itself. World-class professors and a diverse range of courses ensure a stimulating learning environment. But UCL’s true magic lies beyond the classroom. The sheer number of societies (over 300!) caters to every interest imaginable, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals and explore new passions. Whether it’s debating in the Model United Nations or delving into film appreciation, there’s a society waiting to welcome you.

Financial concerns are a major worry for many international students. Thankfully, UCL offers a wealth of on-campus job opportunities. From working in libraries to assisting with research projects, these positions not only ease the financial burden but also provide valuable work experience. Career fairs and networking events further equip you with the tools to navigate the professional world.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of UCL is its inclusivity. Coming from a diverse background, I’ve never felt more accepted. The university actively fosters a welcoming environment for students from all corners of the globe. This sense of belonging is crucial for international students like myself, allowing us to thrive and contribute our unique perspectives.

My current experience at the Sorbonne in Paris, with its more traditional and closed-off environment, has only intensified my appreciation for UCL’s dynamic spirit. UCL truly embodies the spirit of open-mindedness and global engagement.

In conclusion, UCL isn’t just a university; it’s a launchpad for personal and professional growth. It’s a place to explore your passions, connect with a supportive community, and find your place in the world. If you’re seeking an academic powerhouse with a vibrant and inclusive environment, UCL is undoubtedly the place for you.

I graduated the last year that this programme was independent from Bioarchaeology and just focused on Forensics.
While I have to say I gained further knowledge in Osteology, morphology and pathology, we really didn’t cover the Forensics part of it as I had expected.
This was the year when the former director of the programme left and was substituted by another professor that didn’t really have any kind of Forensics experience, she was more a Bioarchaeologist.
The programme merged with the Msc in Bioarchaeology since then and I cannot say how it has developed, but if you are interested in proper Forensic Archaeology or Anthropolgy, I would opt for some other programme.

I would highly recommend this course for anyone interested in pursuing an undergraduate in linguistics, or anyone interested in foreign languages in general; it’s easy to couple this degree with a minor in a foreign language through CLIE UCL. This degree is taught by the top researchers in this field, who are incredibly supportive and skilled at teaching.
The recently renovated Chandler House (the building where the large majority of linguistics modules are taught in) has wonderful facilities with lots of private study spaces and an in-house library (LASS library).