International Relations with Modern Languages, BA (Hons)

Study international relations with Modern Languages

international relations conference

Course Overview

As technology, transport, and a complex international economy make our world smaller, the value of peaceful and cooperative relationships between nations is increasingly important.

International relations are a vital aspect of citizenship in a global society, and our BA International Relations with Modern Languages degree is one of the most important degree programmes we offer.

This interesting area of study explores globalisation and global institutions, development and human rights, International and regional politics, peace and conflict, political economy, security studies and strategic studies and you will learn how power, institutions and laws affect our day-to-day lives.

You will also study a language at either advanced (post-A level) or beginners’ level - French, Spanish or German - as well as vocational modules in both translation and your language of study for the world of work.

The course can be studied as a three-year course, or you can extend your studies by one year by undertaking a Year Abroad or Year in Industry*. These additional options will allow you to further enhance your student experience by giving you access to unique cultural insights and skill-based opportunities.

Why international relations with modern languages at swansea?

Based on our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Have a year abroad in where you can study at a university, teach in a school or work in a business.
  • You will study a wide variety of modules including democracy, international development, politics, philosophy, and war studies.
  • You will be taught by Modern Languages research and teaching experts who specialize in language, film, gender studies, medieval and early modern literature, theatre studies and translation.

Modern Languages at Swansea is ranked:

  • 1st for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2026)
  • 4th in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2026)
  • 5th in the UK Overall (Guardian University Guide 2026), and has
  • 100% Overall Satisfaction* (NSS 2025)

    *Assessed under ‘Linguistics’, (Q28, NSS 2025)

International Relations at Swansea:

  • 92% of graduates in employment &/or study, or doing other activities, such as travelling, 15 months after leaving Swansea University (HESA 2023)
  • Top 15 in the UK Overall (Guardian University Guide 2025)

Your international relations with modern languages experience

This is a flexible degree offering a wide range of specialist modules that allow you to tailor your future career goals while developing your individual interests.

  • You will study the rich diversity of the language and will be taught by innovative experts who have strong national and international links.
  • You will gain excellent oral and writing skills and will develop strong research and analytical skills.
  • To enhance your study and career prospects you will have the opportunity to spend a year abroad in where you can study at a university, teach in a school or work in a business.
  • In your final year, you have the invaluable opportunity to opt for a place on the Welsh Assembly Placement Scheme and undertake the Parliamentary Studies Module with visiting speakers and trips to the House of Commons.

International relations with modern languages employment opportunities

Our graduates are employed all around the world and enter careers including:

  • Education
  • Government and politics
  • Humanitarian organisations
  • Business
  • Media and public relations
  • Law and public services

Our students have also gained employment working for organisations such as:

  • Westminster Forum Projects
  • Political Parties
  • Price Waterhouse Coopers

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications.

Typical A level Offer

BBB

International Relations with Modern Languages, BA (Hons)

International Relations with Modern Languages with a Year Abroad, BA (Hons)

International Relations with Modern Languages with a Year in Industry, BA (Hons)