Languages and International Relations, BA Hons with Sandwich year

The Languages and International Relations, BA Hons at the University of Greenwich is perfect for students who love languages and want to understand the world beyond their own borders. You’ll gain fluency in up to two languages—like Mandarin, Spanish, French, or Italian—while exploring global politics, international relations, and cultural exchange, preparing you for an exciting international career.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building the Foundations
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with both your chosen languages and the basics of international relations. You’ll take modules such as Introduction to International Relations to explore global political systems, alongside Mandarin 1, Spanish 1, French 1, or Italian 1 to kickstart your language skills.

Year 2: Deepening Skills
Year two is all about taking your abilities to the next level. Language modules like Mandarin 2, Spanish 2, French 2, or Italian 2 will help you become more confident in speaking, reading, and writing. At the same time, modules like Global Political Economy will give you a sharper understanding of how politics and economics shape the world.

Year 3: Real-World Experience (Sandwich Year)
The third year gives you the chance to put what you’ve learned into practice. You’ll continue improving your languages with Advanced Language Modules, apply your knowledge in International Relations in Practice, and spend a year on a work placement with an international organization—gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

Year 4: Mastery and Independence
In your final year, you’ll bring everything together through independent research and a dissertation in international relations. Advanced Language Proficiency and Global Policy Analysis modules will ensure you’re ready to communicate and think critically in professional international environments.

Focus Areas

Languages: Mandarin, Spanish, French, Italian; International Relations: Global Political Economy, International Relations in Practice, Global Policy Analysis

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this degree, you’ll be able to:

• Speak and write fluently in two languages.

• Analyze and interpret global political events.

• Communicate confidently across cultures.

• Conduct independent research in international relations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree prepares you for careers in diplomacy, global business, NGOs, and other international organizations. Greenwich’s strong industry connections mean you’ll have real opportunities to get experience while you study.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Greenwich holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, highlighting its outstanding teaching quality and graduate outcomes. Graduates leave ready to make an impact in international careers.