blended image showing language teaching, musical performance on a balalika, and the jessop building

School of Languages, Arts and Societies

We are an interdisciplinary school bringing together world-leading education and research on languages, music, culture, politics and societies from a diverse range of disciplines and regions across the globe.

Study with us

A gateway looking into a courtyard in the Forbidden Palace, Beijing
Study East Asia 
The Eiffel Tower at sunrise. Credit Alexander Spatari
Study Modern Languages and Cultures 
Group of student in music studio
Study Music 
Group of students hold up signs saying hello in different languages
Modern Languages Teaching Centre 

Research

Staff playing world music instrument in music library

Our research

We focus on providing insight into some of the biggest cultural and social issues around the world, bringing together expertise in music, global cultural studies and East Asian studies.

Research strengths and specialisms

About the school

The skyline of Jessop West, The Diamond and the Jessop building
About us 
staff member giving lecture
People 

News

Refugees on sand dune near Calais

Dr Sophie Watt Explores How 'Microcamps' on the French Border are Changing Crossing Attempts

Dr Sophie Watt explores how policies aimed at curbing Channel crossings have worsened conditions in informal camps on France’s northern coast, forcing people into greater danger and pushing smuggling networks to take bigger risks.

Published by The Conversation
University of Sheffield student Holly Satterly stood next to the Bochum Bell in Sheffield's Peace Gardens
University of Sheffield student Holly Satterly has curated an exhibition to celebrate 75 years of Sheffield and Bochum's twinning partnership. Holly, who is learning German as part of her degree, is stood with the Bochum Bell in Sheffield's Peace Gardens.

Sheffield celebrates 75th anniversary of German twinning partnership

Modern Languages & Cultures student Holly Satterly has curated an exhibition celebrating the stories of people who have helped the city of Sheffield and the German city of Bochum maintain a special 75-year twinning partnership.

The Man Who Shot Nelson: A French Take on Trafalgar

Dr David McCallam gives a 10 Minute talk on how the French responded to the crushing defeat in 1805 with satire and storytelling, offering a fascinating alternative perspective on a well-rehearsed historical event.
Pink and green poster for the art show

Art & Young-Onset Dementia: Community Art Show to Open 19th July

Join us on opening night on the 19 July 2025, 5–8pm, for an exciting exhibition exploring young-onset dementia through AI-generated art, personal stories & local talent.

Contact us

Admissions and enquiries

Email: study@sheffield.ac.uk

Get in touch

Address

School of Languages, Arts and Societies
Jessop West
1 Upper Hanover Street
Sheffield
S3 7RA

Any questions?

If you're thinking of studying at the University of Sheffield and need more information, you can call or message us on live chat.

Contacts for prospective students

blended image showing language teaching, musical performance on a balalika, and the jessop building