International Politics and Modern Languages
International Politics and Modern Languages with French is a combination that reflects how deeply language and politics are intertwined in the contemporary world. International politics addresses the relationships between states, the role of international institutions, the causes of conflict and cooperation, and the major ideological and geopolitical forces shaping the global order. French gives you direct access to one of the world's major diplomatic languages and to the politics, history, and culture of France and the broader Francophone world, from West Africa to Quebec.
The combination is not just intellectually coherent; it is professionally powerful.
At the University of Bath, this four-year full-time programme includes a sandwich year with work placement opportunities, allowing you to spend time in a professional environment where French and international political knowledge intersect. You will develop advanced French alongside rigorous training in international relations theory, foreign policy analysis, security studies, and global governance. Bath's Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies is highly regarded, and the programme benefits from the university's strong professional networks.
The placement year is an important feature, giving you real-world experience before graduation.
Graduates from this programme are strongly positioned for careers in diplomacy, the civil service, international organisations, journalism, think tanks, and NGOs with an international focus. The EU, the UN, and other multilateral bodies actively recruit candidates with strong French and an understanding of international politics. Commercial roles in internationally operating companies, particularly those with interests in Francophone markets, are also common destinations.
Translation and interpreting are further options. Postgraduate study in international relations, European politics, security studies, or translation gives graduates who want to specialise further a clear next step.