Politics and a Modern Language (BA)

At Cardiff, studying Politics and a Modern Language is about much more than lectures and essays — it’s about applying what you learn to real-world situations and building skills that employers truly value. From immersing yourself in another country’s culture to working on collaborative projects and gaining professional experience, the programme is designed to give you hands-on learning at every stage. You’ll develop confidence in your chosen language, sharpen your understanding of global politics, and graduate ready to step into an international career.

Here’s how you’ll put your learning into practice:

• Year abroad experience: In your third year, you’ll live, study, or work in a country where your chosen language is spoken. This is your chance to fully immerse yourself in another culture, improve your fluency, and gain valuable global experience. Many students choose to work as language assistants through the British Council or take on professional placements.

• Work placement opportunities: You can choose modules that integrate workplace experience into your degree, allowing you to apply your political and linguistic skills in real professional settings.

• Interactive classes and language practice: You’ll take part in conversation classes, language cafés, and cultural events, as well as join language societies — all of which help you build confidence and communicate naturally in your chosen language.

• Collaborative group projects: Throughout the degree, you’ll work on group assignments that mirror real-world challenges, developing teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.

• Skills-focused modules: The programme is designed to strengthen essential skills — from research and critical analysis to presentation and intercultural communication — so you’re well-prepared for the workplace.

• Extensive digital and library resources: You’ll have access to Cardiff’s comprehensive libraries, digital archives, and online learning tools, supporting your research and helping you excel in both politics and language modules.

• Industry and institutional links: Cardiff’s strong connections with the UK Parliament, Senedd Cymru, EU institutions, and NATO bring real-world expertise into your studies through guest lectures, events, and networking opportunities.

A degree in Politics and a Modern Language from Cardiff opens doors to an exciting range of global careers. By combining political knowledge with strong language and cultural skills, you’ll stand out to employers in government, international organisations, diplomacy, media, business, and beyond. Many graduates go on to shape policy, build international partnerships, or work in roles where communication and cross-cultural understanding are key — from diplomats and policy advisers to translators, interpreters, and communications specialists.

Here’s how Cardiff helps you turn your degree into a successful career:

• Expert career support: The dedicated Student Futures team offers personalised guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and help finding internships, including those with an international focus.

• Outstanding employability outcomes: An impressive 97.3% of Modern Languages graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, showing the real-world value of your degree.

• Strong employer links: Cardiff has partnerships with leading organisations such as the British Council, KPMG, Amazon, EY, RWS Group, and Sony, offering opportunities in translation, international business, communications, and more.

• Placement and internship opportunities: You’ll have the chance to gain professional experience through internships and work placements, including opportunities during your year abroad and even on campus.

• Global career potential: Your bilingual or multilingual skills, combined with political expertise, prepare you for roles in diplomacy, public service, NGOs, media, cultural organisations, and the private sector.

• Long-term career value: This versatile degree builds a skill set that remains in demand — combining analytical thinking, communication, intercultural understanding, and policy insight.

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to continue your studies, this degree provides a strong foundation for postgraduate programmes such as MA International Relations, Public Policy, Diplomacy, Translation and Interpreting, or European Studies. Many graduates also choose to pursue research degrees like an MPhil or PhD, or combine this background with professional qualifications in law, business, or development studies.