International Relations with Modern Languages, BA (Hons)

What sets this degree apart is how much real-world experience you gain while you study. It’s not just about learning theories of international relations or memorising vocabulary — it’s about applying your knowledge in practical, hands-on ways. From group projects that mirror real diplomatic teamwork to advanced language workshops and a chance to live or work abroad, Swansea ensures you graduate with the confidence and skills employers value.

You’ll learn in modern facilities, supported by expert academics and language specialists. The university’s dedicated language labs, translation workshops, and extensive library resources give you the tools you need to research global issues, refine your communication skills, and develop professional fluency. Plus, Swansea’s strong industry and government links mean you can step beyond the classroom and into real political and cultural environments.

Here’s how you’ll gain that experience:

• Year Abroad or Industry Placement: Spend a transformative year studying or working in a country where your chosen language is spoken. This boosts your fluency and gives you real-world cultural and professional experience.

• Work Placement Opportunities: Apply classroom theory in real settings through placements such as with the Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru) — a chance to see politics and policy-making in action.

• Collaborative Group Projects: Tackle real-world political and international challenges through group work that builds teamwork, negotiation, and problem-solving skills — just like you’ll need in global organisations.

• Language and Translation Workshops: Master the practical side of language learning through interactive sessions and translation practice tailored to real-life communication needs.

• Access to Specialist Resources: Make use of Swansea’s well-equipped libraries, online databases, and digital research tools, along with dedicated language labs and study spaces designed to support your success.

A degree in International Relations with Modern Languages from Swansea opens doors to a truly global career. Graduates leave with not just academic knowledge, but the ability to think critically about international issues, communicate across cultures, and adapt to fast-changing global contexts — skills that employers in diplomacy, government, NGOs, media, and business highly value. Many alumni go on to exciting careers as diplomatic officers, policy analysts, communications specialists, translators, and international project coordinators.

Swansea actively prepares you for life after graduation through hands-on experience and personalised career support. The university’s Careers and Employability team helps you build a strong CV, prepare for interviews, and connect with internship and job opportunities around the world. You’ll also benefit from Swansea’s strong links with public institutions and political organisations, which give you direct exposure to real-world policymaking and international affairs.

Here’s how Swansea helps you step confidently into your future career:

• Career-focused support: Get tailored guidance from Swansea’s Careers & Employability team, including one-on-one advice, workshops, and networking opportunities that connect you to employers and graduate schemes.

• Work placements with real impact: Take part in placement modules, including opportunities with the Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru), where you can work alongside policymakers and gain experience that stands out on your CV.

• Unique industry and government links: Engage with modules like British Parliamentary Studies, which include a visit to the House of Commons, giving you first-hand insight into how political institutions operate.

•  Strong career outcomes: Around 90% of Swansea graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of finishing their degree, with average starting salaries of £26,000.

• Transferable, in-demand skills: Your expertise in languages, research, negotiation, and cross-cultural communication will be sought after in sectors ranging from diplomacy and public policy to global business and media.

Further Academic Progression

If you want to continue your studies, Swansea offers a range of postgraduate options that build on this degree. You could pursue a Master’s in International Relations, Politics, Public Policy, or Development Studies, or take your research further with an MPhil or PhD in areas like conflict studies, political theory, or global governance — paving the way for a career in academia, think tanks, or international organisations.