Humanities and languages
Degree programmes taught in English
Lund University offers seven English-taught Master's programmes in the humanities and languages. Some of these offer different specialisations. We are ranked 89th in the world for arts and humanities and 1st in Sweden (THE by subject, 2024).
Find out more about our programmes and studying humanities and languages at Lund University below. Use the links to go to the programme pages for details on entry requirements, application procedures, tuition fees and more.
Bachelor's programmes in this subject area
We don't currently offer any Bachelor's programmes in humanities and languages taught in English.
Master's programmes in this subject area
We offer the following regular and joint Master's programmes in humanities and languages. Our joint Master's programmes involve studies at different universities in Europe.
- Language and Linguistics, Classical Languages
- Language and Linguistics, Cognitive Semiotics
- Language and Linguistics, English
- Language and Linguistics, Linguistics
- Language and Linguistics, Modern Languages
- Language and Linguistics, Swedish as a Second Language
- Language and Linguistics, Swedish/Scandinavian Languages
- Literature – Culture – Media, Children's and Adolescent Literature
- Literature – Culture – Media, English Literature
- Literature – Culture – Media, General Literature
- Literature – Culture – Media, German Literature
- Literature – Culture – Media, Russian Literature
- Literature – Culture – Media, Scandinavian Studies
- Literature – Culture – Media, Spanish Literature
- Visual Culture*
*This programme is offered every other year – applications will be accepted in autumn 2025 for 2026. The programme page will be available then.
For related programmes and interdisciplinary options, see 'Programmes in other subject areas' at the bottom of this page.
Admissions FAQs
Quick answers to your questions about application and admissions.
Studying humanities and languages
Studying humanities and languages at Lund University means exploring human culture, communication and values in a global context. Through a wide range of subjects, from languages and literature to philosophy, history and the arts, students develop critical thinking skills and the ability to engage with complex social and cultural issues.
Get a glimpse of the Joint Faculties of Humanities and Theology, programmes and student life below.
You can also read more about the Joint Faculties of Humanities and Theology below.
Humanistic education with impact
Studying at the Joint Faculties of Humanities and Theology means learning about life, for life. Our programmes and courses explore key aspects of the human experience and prepare you for professional and personal growth. In a rapidly changing world, our focus on people, culture and communication helps you understand basic humanistic values and encourages meaningful discussions.
A wide range of subjects
Lund University offers a wide range of subjects in the humanities and theology, with some disciplines dating back to the University's founding in 1666. You can study:
- major and minor languages
- history
- philosophy
- art history
- musicology
- film
and more (some subjects are only taught in Swedish).
These subjects not only place the individual in a wider context but also help create a deeper understanding of international environments.
The programme combines historical, philosophical, political and legal perspectives.
– Marie, Master's in Human Rights Studies
Practical skills and career development
Our graduates find careers in almost every sector of society, and the faculties continuously develop links between academia and professional life. Many courses offer internships, while others bring in guest lecturers from outside academia. You can also gain practical experience by writing essays in collaboration with companies, public authorities or organisations.
I have come to understand the distinction between knowledge and actionable knowledge.
– Jesse, Master's in Applied Cultural Analysis
Cutting-edge research and resources
Our enthusiastic and knowledgeable lecturers and researchers collaborate with other researchers around the world.
The Humanities Laboratory, equipped with high-tech tools, is a vital resource for both research and education in the humanities and theology. It gives you the opportunity to engage with the latest research techniques.
Chat with students in this subject area
You can chat with our student ambassadors on the Unibuddy app to get answers to your questions and find out more about student life.
If you have any questions for our current students or alumni in this subject area, see below. Not all degree programmes have ambassadors available for chat. However, you will probably be able to contact someone in a related subject.
Programmes in other subject areas
You may also be interested in the related degree programme(s) below.
Related Bachelor's programmes
We don't currently offer any closely related Bachelor's programmes.
Related Master's programmes
The link below takes you to the programme website:
- Asian Studies
- European Studies
- Politics and Society of the Contemporary Middle East
- East- and Central European Studies*
*This programme is offered every other year – applications will be accepted in autumn 2025 for 2026. The programme page will be available then.
Some of our Master's programmes have a unique interdisciplinary approach and accept students from a range of academic backgrounds.
You can also take a look at our full range of degree programmes.