Global Politics and Language

Global Politics and Language is a degree designed for students who want to understand how the world is governed and organised at an international level while also developing real proficiency in a modern language. Global politics examines international relations, the role of states and non-state actors in the global system, international political economy, and the dynamics of conflict, security and cooperation across borders. Adding a language to that study sharpens your cultural awareness and opens access to the political and intellectual life of the country or region whose language you are studying in ways that no amount of second-hand reading can replicate.

At Birkbeck College this part-time BA combines the study of global politics, including international relations, international political economy, and war and security studies, with language study in your choice of French, German, Italian, Japanese or Spanish. You will develop linguistic competence in your chosen language alongside advanced knowledge of cultural topics connected to that language and its speakers. The part-time structure makes the degree accessible to students who are managing other commitments alongside their studies, and Birkbeck's tradition of evening teaching is designed for exactly this kind of flexible engagement with higher education.

Graduates from Global Politics and Language degrees go on to careers in diplomacy, international organisations, government, the civil service, journalism, international development, business, finance and the charitable sector. The combination of political analysis and language skills is valued across all contexts where engagement with the international system or with non-English-speaking communities matters. Postgraduate study in international relations, global politics, area studies, international law or political economy is a natural progression for those who wish to develop their understanding further.