Modern Languages (French and German) and International Relations

French, German, and international relations form a combination of remarkable scope and coherence. French and German are two of the most widely spoken and institutionally important languages in Europe, the working languages of the European Union and the tongues of two of the continent's most significant economic and political powers. International relations examines how states and other actors interact in the global system, how foreign policy is made, and what drives conflict and cooperation in a world of competing interests.

The ability to engage with international affairs in more than one European language is a genuine professional asset, and studying them alongside the analytical frameworks of international relations develops a perspective on European and global affairs that few other degree combinations can match.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year full-time MA (Hons) includes a year abroad and develops your French and German to a high level of proficiency through the study of language, literature, and culture, while also building your understanding of international relations theory, foreign policy analysis, and global institutions. You will study Francophone and German-speaking language, literature, and culture alongside the political science of the international system, developing skills in linguistic analysis, cultural interpretation, and the rigorous thinking about power, institutions, and norms that international relations demands. The year abroad gives you the opportunity to develop your languages through immersion while also experiencing international affairs directly.

Graduates of French, German, and international relations programmes are exceptionally well placed for careers in diplomacy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, international organisations, the European institutions, journalism, international banking and finance, and global consultancy. The combination of two major European languages and deep international relations knowledge is precisely what organisations working across European political and commercial environments seek. Postgraduate study in international relations, European politics, French studies, German studies, or international law is a natural next step for those seeking to specialise or pursue academic careers.