BA in Politics and Portuguese, University of Manchester

Manchester,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of world politics while fostering fluency in Portuguese language and culture. You’ll develop strong analytical skills and understanding of key global political areas like international relations, security, and development. Alongside this, you’ll enhance your linguistic abilities and cultural knowledge to engage with political, historical, and cultural issues in the Portuguese-speaking world, including Portugal, Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and Goa. A distinctive feature is the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad in a Portuguese-speaking country, which will deepen your language proficiency and cultural understanding. The programme is highly ranked, being among the UK’s top-10 for Modern Languages (QS 2024) and Social Sciences (THE 2025). The university itself holds a top-50 global ranking in Arts and Humanities (THE 2025). The course’s combination of politics and language studies prepares students for a range of international careers and provides a rich, immersive academic experience.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal if you're passionate about politics and want to gain a deep understanding of the Portuguese-speaking world. Its blend of political analysis and language study sets it apart, preparing students for careers that require intercultural competence and language skills. The opportunity to study abroad in a Portuguese-speaking country is a strong highlight, offering invaluable real-world experience. The university’s rankings in Modern Languages and Social Sciences reinforce the quality of teaching and resources available. Plus, the course’s flexible structure and broad career prospects make it a highly attractive choice for students interested in international affairs, diplomacy, journalism, or business.

Specialisation

This degree uniquely blends the study of global politics with Portuguese language and cultural studies. You will focus on key areas of politics such as international relations, security, development, and political theory, while also immersing yourself in the languages and cultures of the Lusophone world. The course includes optional units on topics like Brazilian literature, Portuguese cinema, and decolonisation, allowing you to tailor your learning to your interests. A significant component is the year abroad in a Portuguese-speaking country, which consolidates language skills and cultural insight, offering a truly immersive experience that enhances intercultural communication and understanding.

Course fees

Application fees

27.97L

1st year tuition fees

27.97L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should meet the typical A-level offer of ABB, with a contextual offer of BBB for eligible students. The course also accepts IB students with 34 points, including 6,5,5 at HL. GCSE requirements include demonstrating acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to Grade C/4 in English Language and Mathematics. The course also considers qualifications from different countries, such as Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate, and others, often specifying minimum grades. English language proficiency is required, with IELTS 7.0 or GCSE/IGCSE English Language at Grade C/4. Further details about specific entry requirements are provided in the official guidelines.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

100

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this course develop intercultural awareness, communication skills, and analytical expertise that are highly valued by employers. Many go into media, journalism, PR, business services, marketing, advertising, or management roles. Others pursue postgraduate study to become lawyers, teachers, or civil servants, working for organizations like the BBC, United Nations, NHS, and major corporations. The university’s strong reputation for employability means graduates are well-targeted by top employers, with opportunities in diverse sectors including finance, law, and public administration.

FAQs

What languages can I study alongside politics?

The course primarily focuses on Portuguese, but other details about additional language options aren’t specified here. The mandatory language component is Portuguese, with optional units in its culture, literature, and related areas.

Is a year abroad compulsory?

Yes, Year 3 is spent abroad under approved conditions, offering you the chance to study or work in a Portuguese-speaking country, which is a core part of the programme.