4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
This exciting four-year degree combines the study of international relations with language learning, giving you both analytical skills and practical communication abilities. It’s perfect for students curious about world affairs, keen to work across cultures, and ready to take on careers in diplomacy, global business, NGOs, or government.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Building Foundations
In your first year, you'll get a solid grounding in global politics, exploring topics like migration, terrorism, and climate change through modules such as Key Themes in International Relations and Political Thought. At the same time, you’ll start your language journey, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, and practical communication skills that set you up for real-world use.
Year 2: Going Deeper
The second year takes your understanding further with modules like Theorising International Politics and Analysing Foreign Policy, helping you understand how global decisions are made. Your language skills will also progress, emphasizing fluency, cultural insight, and the confidence to communicate in professional contexts.
Year 3: Year Abroad
This year is all about immersion. You’ll live in a country where your chosen language is spoken, improving your language skills while gaining first-hand experience of different cultures and international settings. It’s a chance to apply what you’ve learned and see global politics and language in action.
Year 4: Specialisation and Preparation for the Future
In your final year, you can focus on areas that interest you most, such as security, development, or diplomacy, while completing a dissertation or project that combines international relations with language. Advanced language modules will ensure you’re ready for professional roles, giving you confidence in your communication and research skills.
Focus Areas
Global Migration, International Diplomacy, Foreign Policy Analysis, Language Proficiency, Cross-Cultural Communication
Learning Outcomes
Critical Thinking, Multilingual Communication, Policy Analysis, Cultural Competence, Research Skills
Professional Alignment
While the degree isn’t tied to a specific professional accreditation, it equips you with skills that employers value in international relations, government, NGOs, and language-focused careers.
Reputation
The University of Portsmouth is known for putting employability at the heart of its programs, helping graduates launch successful careers both in the UK and internationally.
At Portsmouth, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. On this program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in real-world settings, developing practical skills that employers value. From immersive language labs to international placements, every aspect of your study is designed to prepare you for a global career. You’ll also work on projects, collaborate with peers, and get opportunities to engage with current international issues firsthand. Here’s how you’ll put theory into practice:
Language Laboratories – Practice listening, speaking, and comprehension in multimedia-rich labs that use video, audio, and online resources to make learning interactive.
Interpreter Training Suite – Hone conference interpreting skills using professional-standard hardware and software.
Digital Studios – Create and edit multimedia content, building skills in digital communication and presentation.
Year Abroad – Immerse yourself in a country where your chosen language is spoken, improving fluency while gaining cultural insight.
Work Placement Opportunities – Apply your learning in real-world language or international relations settings, gaining invaluable work experience.
Research Institutes – Collaborate on projects with research centers focused on global politics and languages, exploring current international issues.
Group Projects and Presentations – Strengthen teamwork, leadership, and communication skills through collaborative coursework.
University Facilities – Access extensive libraries, study spaces, and support services to enhance both academic and personal growth.
Graduates from this program leave Portsmouth with the skills and confidence to succeed in a wide range of global careers. By combining language fluency with a deep understanding of international relations, you could find yourself working as an International Relations Analyst, Diplomatic Service Officer, Foreign Affairs Consultant, or a Multilingual Communications Specialist. The degree not only opens doors to exciting roles but also equips you to make a real impact on the world stage. Here’s how Portsmouth helps you get there:
Career Services – Tailored guidance, CV support, and networking events with industry professionals help you prepare for the job market.
Graduate Success – Many graduates secure relevant jobs shortly after finishing their degree, with competitive starting salaries in global roles.
Industry Partnerships – Connections with international organizations and NGOs provide hands-on experience and potential job opportunities.
Long-term Accreditation Value – The skills and knowledge you gain are recognized and valued by employers worldwide, giving you a competitive edge.
Support for Job Readiness – Workshops, mentoring, and internships ensure you’re work-ready by the time you graduate.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can continue to build your expertise through postgraduate studies, such as a Master’s in International Relations, Translation and Interpreting, or Global Studies. These paths help you specialize further, boost your career prospects, and open up opportunities in international organizations, diplomacy, and research.
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