International Relations with Modern Languages, BA (Hons)

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Course Overview

As technology, transport, and a more complex and globalised economy make our world smaller, the value of peaceful and cooperative relationships between states and nations is increasingly important. At the same time, the threats that states, communities, and individuals face are increasing in intensity and breadth. How do states cope with the changing nature of conflicts and new threats to security? How do we maintain and strengthen peaceful relations between people and states? What role can international institutions play alongside state actors in a complex and interconnected world?

Our BA International Relations and Modern Languages degree provides you with an opportunity to investigate the impact of a globalised world on states and citizens, the role of digital communication in shaping understanding of events, and the evolution of global human rights. The drivers and forces behind international cooperation and conflict form part of our degree just as much as the impact of conflict on the relationship between states and people. You will learn how power, norms and institutions, as well as legal frameworks, affect our day-to-day lives and how historical events still have a noticeable impact on the global world order.

As part of your degree you will also study the rich diversity of your chosen language (French, Spanish or German) at a level suitable to your existing knowledge, with the opportunity to undertake a year abroad. This allows you a first-hand opportunity to gain cultural insights, to directly interact with other cultures and educational systems, and to further enhance your linguistic skills. 

Why international relations with modern languages at swansea?

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)
  • 100% Overall Satisfaction* (NSS 2025)

*Assessed under ‘Linguistics’

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)

Your international relations with modern languages experience

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:

  • Study a wide variety of modules including those related to democracy, international development, politics, and philosophy.
  • Undertake a range of specialist modules that allow you to tailor your future career goals while developing your individual interests.
  • Engage with the rich diversity of your choosen language and be taught by innovative experts who have strong national and international links.
  • Gain excellent oral and writing skills and develop strong research and analytical skills.
  • In your final year, 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.

This programme includes opportunities to undertake a Year Abroad, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience. This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

The optional Foundation Year for this programme can give you an exciting introduction to higher education, setting you up with the skills, confidence, and knowledge that you’ll need to be successful in your undergraduate degree. It’s ideal if you need a little more support after further education, or are returning to education after a gap. Following successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will progress onto Year 1 of your BA.

International relations with modern languages employment opportunities

Our graduates are employed worldwide 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

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

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)