In our globalised world, knowledge of a modern language is an increasingly important skill which can greatly enhance your career prospects. And this knowledge is particularly relevant to a subject like international relations. On our BA International Relations and Modern Languages degree, you’ll hone your skills in French, Spanish, or Japanese to degree level, and spend a life-changing year abroad. You’ll also study the key issues and events in contemporary global politics. Our graduates go on to exciting and rewarding careers in a variety of areas working for international agencies, parliaments, political parties, charities, non-government organisations (NGOs), think-tanks, and other fields.
Studying global politics and a language side by side isn’t just useful in terms of your future career: you’ll also gain a particular insight into the culture of another country or region, helping you to understand issues of politics and policy from another perspective.
You’ll be taught by academic staff who are active researchers and experts in their field. In the language part of your degree, you’ll develop and expand your ability to read, write, and communicate within your chosen language. In your international relations modules, you’ll learn about and debate key questions of contemporary global politics. You’ll consider questions such as: How important are states in a globalised world of transnational corporations, non-governmental organisations, and international organisations? What role does war and military power play within today’s international system? And how do we address shared challenges from climate change, migration, to poverty and underdevelopment?
You’ll spend your third year in a country where your chosen degree language is spoken. This will be an opportunity to develop your intercultural awareness, resourcefulness and flexibility, along with your language skills. It’s also a great way to demonstrate your resilience, confidence, and your ability to thrive in an international setting, to future employers.
We have exchange links with many universities in France and Spain, as well as links with universities in Japan, Canada and Latin America.
