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Britain: Institutions, Power & People

Key information

Subject area:

Pre-University & Undergraduate Summer Programmes


Course type:

Summer


Credit level:

4


Duration:

4 weeks


Available course dates:

From: 30 June 2025 To: 25 July 2025
Application deadline: 09 May 2025

Course overview

Summer School modules are designed to be intensive, intellectually stimulating short courses. They are taught by King’s academics in academic disciplines where King's has expertise. Classes are highly international, giving students an opportunity to collaborate with peers from all around the globe.

Each module consists of 150 study hours, comprising 45 hours of intensive synchronous and asynchronous teaching, independent study and group work and is examined to university standards. Comparable to an in-semester 15-credit King’s undergraduate module and therefore typically awarded 3-4 US credits or 7.5 ECTS, many summer students ask their home institution to award them external credit for their King's summer module to use towards their degree programme when they return home.

What does this course cover?

In a post-Brexit era, and in a rapidly changing world in which new powers are rising and old imperial powers struggle to remain relevant, this module asks the question; what is the significance of Britain in the 21st century? This interdisciplinary module aims to give students a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary British Isles, situating it within its global context. Students will gain a broad understanding of the key political, economic, sociological, and cultural context in the UK. We will examine some of the key institutions of Britain such as the government, legal system, monarchy, and media, critically analysing the political and legal frameworks in which British people live and often resist.  

What will I achieve?

By the end of the module, you should have explored the following questions:

  • Who are the people of Britain and what does it mean to be ‘British’?
  • What has been the role of migration in building Britain and what is the role of migration in shaping contemporary Britain?
  • How does the class system and other social inequalities based on race and ethnicity shape the everyday lives of those living in the UK?
  • What was the role of colonialism and imperialism in building the British nation, and how does Britain confront its colonial past?
  • What is the relevance of Britain on the 21st century world stage?

Who is this for?

The King's College London Undergraduate Summer School is open to students who are currently, or have been, enrolled in an undergraduate degree programme. We also welcome applications from professionals who have substantial relevant experience in their chosen subject area.

You should ensure that you are eligible to apply before you submit your application by checking our academic and English language entry criteria.

Entry requirements

  • Open to students who are currently, or have been, enrolled in an undergraduate degree. We also welcome applications from professionals who have substantial relevant experience in their chosen subject area.
  • Minimum grade requirement of 2:1 degree equivalent. See International grade equivalents on our Undergraduate Summer School homepage, under Entry requirements.
  • English language requirement of at least level C1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR). See full English Language requirements on our Undergraduate Summer School homepage, under Entry requirements.
  • Minimum age at the start of the course is 18 years old.

How will I be assessed?

40% Oral examination, 50% Essay, 10% Attendance 

What is the teaching schedule?

Taught on-campus any time between the hours of 9am and 6pm from Monday to Thursday. 

Fees and discounts

  2025 tuition fee Residential programme
4-week session £2,400 £3,345
4-week session - early application discount* £2,295 £3,240
Application fee: £60

*Early application discount: prices apply for applications received by 23:59 GMT on 14 February 2025. Subject to availability at the time of application. From 15 February 2025, the standard 2025 tuition fees apply.

As per the fees listed above, booking two sessions receives a discount. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts of promotions. Subject to availability at the time of application.

Further information

More information on our fees, entry requirements and residential package can be found on the Undergraduate Summer School homepage.

Read our Terms and Conditions

Course status:

Available

Full fee £2400

Application fee £60

Residential programme fee £3345

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