Chinese and International Relations BA Honours

At Westminster, learning goes far beyond lectures. The Chinese and International Relations BA Honours is designed to immerse you in real-world experiences — whether that’s speaking Chinese in authentic settings, analysing global events in small discussion groups, or taking your studies abroad. You’ll be supported by expert tutors, cutting-edge language labs, and a vibrant international community that mirrors the diversity of the global stage you’re preparing for.

From interactive seminars to professional placements, everything is built to help you apply your learning in real time. Here’s how Westminster brings your degree to life:

• Study Abroad or Work Placement: Between your second and final year, you’ll have the chance to study in a Chinese-speaking country or complete a professional placement. This is your opportunity to sharpen your language skills, experience new cultures, and gain valuable career experience.

• Hands-On Language Practice: You’ll train in specialist interpreting and translation labs, equipped with professional software and headsets — giving you a taste of what it’s like to work in international communication and diplomacy.

• Collaborative Projects: Throughout your modules, you’ll take part in group discussions, debates, and research projects that connect global politics to real-world events — building confidence and teamwork skills employers look for.

• Work Placement for Humanities Module: In your final year, you can choose a Work Placement for Humanities module, allowing you to apply your academic insights in a professional setting, whether in NGOs, government, or cultural organisations.

• World-Class Resources: You’ll have full access to the Cavendish Library and Regent Street Language Centre, which offer rich collections in Chinese studies, politics, and international relations — plus digital tools, quiet study areas, and research support from specialist librarians.

• Industry-Relevant Teaching: Classes like Language in the Public Space and Expressions of Chinese Culture are taught by experts who link theory directly to current global developments, helping you understand how politics, culture, and language work together in the real world.

Graduating from Westminster with a BA in Chinese and International Relations opens doors to a world of global opportunities. You’ll leave not only fluent in one of the world’s most influential languages, but also equipped with a deep understanding of international politics and cross-cultural communication — a rare combination that employers value highly. Many of our graduates go on to work in diplomacy, international business, or global organisations, with typical roles including diplomatic or policy officer, international trade specialist, NGO project coordinator, and cross-cultural communication advisor.

Your career development is supported at every stage through Westminster’s strong employability focus and hands-on support network:

• Careers and Employability Service: From your first year to three years after graduation, you’ll have access to tailored support — including CV feedback, networking events, and 1-to-1 career coaching to help you find internships, placements, and graduate roles that fit your goals.

• Work-Based Learning: Every student completes at least 35 hours of practical work experience, through placements, volunteering, or short-term projects — ensuring you graduate with real-world skills and professional confidence.

• Global Employability: Westminster graduates from this course have secured positions with prestigious organisations such as the British Council, the European Parliament, and Deutsche Bank, showing the global reach of this degree.

• Industry Recognition: With Chinese ranked among the top five most sought-after languages by UK employers (CBI/Pearson), your language proficiency and international expertise will give you a competitive edge in an increasingly global job market.

• Graduate Earnings: According to official data, Westminster graduates in similar fields typically earn between £17,000–£26,000 within a few years of graduation, with salaries rising steadily as they progress into senior international roles.

Further Academic Progression

Many students choose to continue their studies to specialise even further. After completing your BA, you could progress to a Master’s in International Relations, Chinese Studies, Global Diplomacy, or Translation and Interpreting — either at Westminster or another leading global university. Postgraduate study opens pathways to research, teaching, and high-level positions in policy, development, and international cooperation.