International Relations and Modern Language

International relations and a modern language is a combination built for a world in which understanding global affairs requires both analytical frameworks and the linguistic access to engage with other cultures on their own terms. International relations examines the behaviour of states and non-state actors in the global system, the causes of conflict and the conditions for cooperation, and the institutions and norms that govern international life. A modern language gives you the ability to access primary sources, communicate with international partners and understand cultural contexts that are invisible to those who can only engage with them through translation.

At the University of East Anglia, this four-year programme pairs international relations with a modern language of your choice, developing both your analytical understanding of global affairs and your language skills to a high level. You will study international relations theory, global governance, security, international political economy and the foreign policy of major powers, alongside the language, literature and cultural context of your chosen modern language. The combination develops a genuinely dual competence that is rare in the graduate labour market and highly valued by employers seeking graduates who can operate across linguistic and cultural boundaries.

The typical entry tariff is 120 UCAS points.

Graduates pursue careers in diplomacy and the foreign service, international organisations, NGOs, journalism, policy research, think tanks, security organisations, commercial roles in international markets and the civil service. The combination of international relations knowledge and modern language proficiency is particularly valued in roles that require engagement with specific regional or linguistic contexts. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in international relations, area studies, law, security studies or the specific language and region they have studied.