International Politics and Modern Languages BA (Hons)

This program isn’t just about lectures and reading — it’s designed so you gain real, hands-on experience that prepares you for the world. You’ll have the chance to live, work, and study abroad, practise your language in real situations, tackle real-world political questions, and carry out your own independent research. Bath’s supportive environment, expert tutors, and dedicated facilities make it easy to apply what you’re learning in a practical, meaningful way.

Some of the key experiential opportunities include:

• Year Abroad / Work Abroad: Spend your third year fully immersed in another country, either studying at a partner university, working as a language assistant, or completing a professional placement. This helps you build fluency, cultural confidence, and invaluable international experience.

• Tutorials, Seminars, and Group Projects: Many modules involve discussions, debates, presentations, and collaborative work, so you practice speaking, negotiating ideas, and working as part of a team — just like in real professional environments.

• Research Methods Training: Learn hands-on skills in qualitative and quantitative research during Year 2, preparing you to design projects, collect data, and analyse real-world political issues.

• Dissertation in Politics: In your final year, you’ll undertake a substantial independent research project, giving you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and develop advanced analytical and writing skills.

• Language Learning Facilities: Access audio-visual materials, authentic texts, and interactive exercises to practise listening, speaking, and understanding the culture behind the language — much like living in a native-speaking environment.

• Library and Digital Resources: Bath’s extensive libraries and online tools support your independent learning, giving you access to the latest research, journals, and learning software whenever you need it.

Graduates from this program leave Bath with more than just a degree — they gain real-world skills, global experience, and language fluency that make them highly employable. Many go on to exciting careers where they can influence policy, work internationally, or communicate across cultures. Typical roles include:

• Diplomatic Service Officer – shaping international relations and policy

• International Development Consultant – working with NGOs or global organisations

• Policy Analyst – researching and advising on political issues

• Multilingual Communications Specialist – connecting organisations with global audiences

Bath supports you every step of the way:

• Careers Service: Offers personalised guidance, workshops, CV and interview preparation, and networking opportunities to help you land your first role.

• Employment stats & salary: Graduates enjoy high employability, with many securing roles in international organisations, government agencies, and multinational companies, and competitive starting salaries reflecting the value of politics plus languages.

• Industry partnerships: Collaborations with partners like Sciences Po Paris and Erasmus universities provide global exposure and practical opportunities.

• Accreditation & long-term value: While the degree isn’t tied to a specific professional body, the combination of political knowledge, language fluency, and international experience is highly regarded by employers.

• Graduation outcomes: Most students go on to graduate roles, international placements, or further studies that build on their undergraduate learning.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-prepared for advanced studies if they want to deepen their expertise. You could pursue an MA in International Relations at Bath or explore research-focused options like the MRes in Politics and International Studies. These pathways equip you for high-level careers in policy, research, or academia and build directly on the skills and knowledge gained during your degree.