BA Politics and German

Studying Politics and German at Bristol is much more than theory—you’ll constantly be putting what you learn into practice. From day one, you’ll be working with specialist digital tools in the Multimedia Centre, where interactive software, films, and audio resources make language learning engaging and effective. Politics is just as hands-on: your classes aren’t limited to lectures but include lively debates, group projects, podcasts, and even video essays, so you’re always applying your knowledge in creative ways.

And the real highlight—your third year abroad—gives you the chance to live, study, or work in a German-speaking country, where you’ll fully immerse yourself in the language and culture while gaining international experience that employers love.

Here are some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience on this course:

• Year abroad: Spend your third year in a German-speaking country, building fluency and cultural confidence.

• Specialist facilities: Learn and practice German in the Multimedia Centre, using cutting-edge software and interactive tools.

• Creative assessments: Develop teamwork and communication through projects like podcasts, video essays, group debates, and presentations.

• Student societies: Join the German Society, language cafés, and cultural events to keep practicing outside the classroom.

• Research-led teaching: Learn politics from academics actively shaping the field, so your insights stay current and relevant.

• Career support: Access placements, internships, and guidance through the Careers Service and the Bristol Abroad programme

Graduates from Politics and German at Bristol are known for stepping into exciting international careers. Many find themselves working in diplomacy, policy analysis, NGOs, or media, where strong language skills and political expertise are highly valued. In short, this degree opens doors to a wide range of global opportunities.

Here’s how Bristol helps you get there:

• Careers support you can count on: The University’s Careers Service offers practical help with CVs, interview prep, and career planning—and you can still access it for up to three years after you graduate. You’ll also benefit from the Professional Liaison Network, which connects you directly with alumni and professionals in politics, government, and media.

• Proven graduate success: Around 85% of Politics and International Relations students are working or studying further within 15 months of graduating. Employers actively seek out Bristol graduates, with the university ranked among the top 10 in the UK for employability.

• Industry connections: Each year, over 300 companies take part in employer fairs, workshops, and networking events on campus. These links make it easier to explore internships, placements, or first jobs.

• Long-term value: A combined degree in politics and German gives you an edge—combining cultural fluency with political insight is rare, and employers know it. Whether you want to work in government, the EU, global business, or education, this qualification carries real weight.

• Graduate roles: Alumni often move into careers as policy advisors, government analysts, NGO project coordinators, media correspondents, or international communications officers.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, Bristol offers excellent postgraduate options. You could specialise in areas like International Relations, European Politics, Translation Studies, or German cultural studies. Plus, as a Bristol graduate, you’ll often benefit from alumni scholarships and fee reductions on many master’s programmes—making it easier to take your academic journey to the next level.