BA International Relations and Modern Languages

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA International Relations and Modern Languages at the University of Exeter combines the study of global politics with practical language skills, giving you a unique edge in understanding international affairs. It’s perfect for students who are curious about world events and enjoy communicating across cultures, offering you both political insight and language fluency.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in International Relations with modules like Introduction to International Relations and Global Politics. At the same time, you’ll start developing your chosen language—whether it’s French, German, Spanish, or another option—through tailored language and cultural modules. This combination ensures you gain a strong grounding in both subjects from the start.

Year 2:
The second year allows you to dive deeper into topics like International Political Economy and Global Security, while advancing your language skills through more complex linguistic and cultural studies. You’ll learn to think critically about global issues and apply your language knowledge in meaningful ways, preparing for more specialized work in the later years.

Year 3 (International Placement Year):
If you choose the four-year route, your third year is all about real-world experience. An international placement gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, use your language skills in a professional setting, and gain firsthand understanding of international relations.

Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll tackle advanced topics such as International Law and Conflict Resolution, while polishing your language abilities to near-native level. A capstone project or dissertation lets you explore an area you’re passionate about, combining your political and language expertise.

Focus Areas:
International Relations, Modern Languages, Global Politics, Cultural Studies, Language Proficiency

Learning Outcomes:
Analytical Thinking, Cross-Cultural Communication, Political Insight, Language Fluency, Research Skills

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
This program follows the high academic standards of the University of Exeter’s Politics and International Relations department, equipping graduates with skills valued by employers worldwide.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Exeter is known for strong graduate employability, with many students finding roles or continuing their studies soon after graduation. Its global recognition in Political Science highlights the program’s quality and impact.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA International Relations and Modern Languages at Exeter isn’t just about classroom learning—it’s designed to give you hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world challenges. From immersive language study to placements abroad, the program helps you build practical skills, understand global politics firsthand, and gain confidence in professional settings. You’ll also benefit from the university’s excellent facilities and resources, which support both your academic growth and personal development.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life in this program:

International Placement Year: Spend your third year abroad on a work or study placement in a country where your chosen language is spoken. This is a fantastic way to boost language skills, experience a new culture, and apply what you’ve learned in a real-world context.
Field Trips and Guest Lectures: Participate in field trips and hear directly from experts in global politics and international relations, giving you insights you won’t find in textbooks.
Internships: Take part in internships that connect you with organisations in politics and international relations, helping you gain practical experience and expand your professional network.
Language Learning Facilities: Exeter’s modern Language Centre provides resources, software, and support to help you develop your language skills effectively.
Collaborative Projects: Work on group projects that let you apply theory to practice while developing teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Research Opportunities: Access university resources and guidance to get involved in research projects, deepening your analytical and investigative skills.

These experiences ensure that when you graduate, you’re not only academically prepared but also equipped with the practical skills and confidence to succeed in a global career.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA International Relations and Modern Languages at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for careers that require an understanding of global affairs, international cooperation, and cross-cultural communication. By combining political knowledge with advanced language skills, students develop the confidence and expertise needed for roles such as Diplomat, Civil Servant, International Relations Specialist, Policy Analyst, Translator, Journalist, Business Consultant, and Marketing Professional.

The programme provides students with a unique combination of global awareness, language ability, and transferable skills that are highly valued by employers. With support from Exeter’s careers services, international opportunities, and professional development activities, students are well prepared to progress into employment or further study:

Dedicated Careers Service: Students have access to Exeter’s Career Zone, offering personalised careers advice, employability workshops, employer events, careers fairs, mentoring, and support with CV writing, applications, and interview preparation. Students can also complete the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award to develop and showcase their employability skills.
International Placement opportunities: Students can spend a year abroad through study or work opportunities, allowing them to improve their language fluency, gain international experience, and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and professional environments.
Graduate career destinations: Graduates can progress into careers across politics, government, international organisations, translation, journalism, media, business, marketing, education, finance, and the voluntary sector. The skills gained from the course support roles such as Policy Analyst, International Relations Officer, Translator, Communications Officer, Civil Servant, Business Consultant, and Researcher.
Employment outcomes: The course develops highly valued skills including critical thinking, research, communication, teamwork, leadership, cultural awareness, and the ability to analyse complex global issues. According to the University of Exeter’s Graduate Outcomes data, 88% of Politics graduates were in or due to start employment or further study 15 months after graduation.
University and employer connections: Students benefit from career fairs, employer networking events, professional skills workshops, and opportunities to engage with organisations through Exeter’s Career Zone. These activities help students explore career options and build valuable professional connections.
Long-term value of the degree: The combination of international relations knowledge, language proficiency, and intercultural understanding gives graduates a strong foundation for long-term career development. These skills are particularly valuable in areas such as diplomacy, government, international business, communications, law, and global organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA International Relations and Modern Languages, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes to specialise in areas such as international relations, diplomacy, global development, translation, or related professional fields. Possible progression routes include MA International Relations, MA European Politics, MA Translation and Professional Language Skills, MSc Globalisation and Latin American Development, Graduate Diploma in Law, or PGCE Secondary French, depending on individual career goals.