BA in Politics and a Modern Language (with year abroad), Cardiff University

Cardiff,

48 Months

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About this course

This 4-year full-time program with a year abroad combines study of politics and international relations with modern language learning, aiming to develop high-level communication, critical thinking, and intercultural skills. The course offers a broad exploration of how governments and parliaments function, evaluating key political ideas like power, democracy, and international relations, including Wales, the UK, Europe, and beyond. Language study focuses on Chinese, French, or Spanish, with pathways for students at different proficiency levels. An essential component is the year spent abroad studying or working in a country where your chosen language is spoken, enhancing cultural understanding and independence. This immersive experience prepares students for diverse careers by fostering resilience, global awareness, and transferable skills.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students interested in understanding global politics and international relations while developing multilingual proficiency. The program's strong links with the Welsh Government, the Welsh Parliament, Westminster, the EU, and NATO provide valuable engagement opportunities. The year abroad allows for cultural immersion and practical language use, making graduates more confident and versatile. The program emphasizes employability through placements, extra-curricular activities, and skills development in communication, teamwork, and critical thinking. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in politics, diplomacy, translation, law, education, and beyond, benefiting from the combination of linguistic and political expertise offered here.

Specialisation

Students can choose to study one of three languages: Chinese, French, or Spanish. The program accommodates students with varying language proficiency, offering Elementary or Upper Elementary pathways for those with foundational knowledge and more advanced modules for others. The curriculum integrates language, culture, and societal context, allowing students to deepen their linguistic skills while exploring social, political, and historical topics related to their language. In final year, students may take advanced language modules and participate in modules focused on cultural and political themes, with options like film, literature, history, and gender studies.

Course fees

Application fees

25.02L

1st year tuition fees

25.02L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should typically meet A-level offers of ABB-BBC, with a B in a language at A-level providing access to the Upper Elementary pathway. International Baccalaureate students need 32-30 overall or 6-5 in three HL subjects, including a grade 6 in a HL language for the Upper Elementary pathway. GCSE English language at grade C/4 or equivalent is required. The course also accepts other qualifications like BTEC and T Levels, assessed on a case-by-case basis. English language proficiency tests such as IELTS (6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each subskill), TOEFL, or PTE may also be required for international students.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates from this program are prepared for a variety of careers, including roles in finance, public service, diplomacy, international organizations, business consultancy, education, health, media, interpreting, translation, law, and teaching. The program's focus on critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and practical skills like teamwork and leadership make students competitive in the global job market. Opportunities for placements and language immersion help students build valuable experience, ensuring they can pursue careers that leverage their language skills and political knowledge in diverse sectors.

FAQs

What languages can I study in this course?

You can choose to study Chinese, French, or Spanish, with pathways for students with different language proficiency levels.

What opportunities are available for studying or working abroad?

In your third year, you can study or work abroad in countries where your chosen language is spoken, through exchange programs or placements with partner organizations like the British Council.

What skills will I develop during this course?

You will develop high-level language skills, critical thinking, intercultural awareness, research abilities, teamwork, and professional communication, preparing you for diverse careers.