Explore global social, political and cultural challenges, whilst achieving fluency in another language.
This degree enables you to combine the study of a language at either beginner (ab initio) or advanced level with the study of international politics. This combination will give you strong skills in both areas and prepare you for an international career.
You can choose from either French, German or Spanish (intended for those who have studied to A level standard) or any beginner language (which you do not need to have studied before). These are French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Russian or Spanish.
In Year 1, you will develop your written and spoken language skills, as well as your understanding of key political concepts and theoretical tools for the study of international politics. Alongside this, you'll explore the history and culture of your chosen language.
In Year 2, you’ll continue with the advanced study of your chosen language, and the history, politics, culture and society of its primary countries as well as the international context. You’ll gain skills in research and design methods. You will also choose from optional units, enabling you to focus on areas of interest to you.
You'll spend Year 3 either studying or working abroad.
In your final year, alongside your language study, you will do a politics dissertation. You’ll also choose from a wide range of optional units that will allow you to focus on areas you are most interested in.
You can study this course with these languages:
The (ab initio) language streams will fast-track your first two years to help you prepare to study or work abroad in the third year.
If you study an advanced language, you will learn about political and cultural issues in the target language.
You’ll learn from teaching staff with diverse backgrounds and expertise in contemporary political studies and modern languages. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching, aiming to enhance your learning experience.
Throughout the course, you will develop skills to prepare you for employment and further study. These include:
You will also develop advanced language skills.
Many of our politics graduates have gone on to careers in both the private and public sectors, working in the banking and finance industries, media, public administration, and European and international political institutions.
Examples of where our recent graduates have gone on to work include:
Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail.
We understand that you will want to know more about the shape of the academic year. We work hard and plan for different scenarios, to be able to welcome you to the University of Bath at the start of each semester.
This course lasts 4 years. It starts in September 2025 and ends in 2029. Welcome week starts on 22 September 2025.
Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
The units you study will vary depending on your language choices.
If you study an advanced language (French, German or Spanish), you’ll study the below units for your chosen language:
If you choose a beginner (ab initio) language pathway (Italian, French, Spanish, German, Russian or Mandarin), you’ll study:
At Bath, our courses are made up of units of study. Compulsory units cover core concepts that you'll need to understand as part of your degree programme. Some of our courses also offer the opportunity for you to study optional units. These allow you to specialise in particular areas of knowledge that interest you.
As an undergraduate, you will be expected to take 120 credits (60 ECTS credits) in each academic year. Credits are usually split evenly across your two semesters of study. 120 credits (60 ECTS credits) are the equivalent of 1,200 notional hours of study; this includes contact time with staff and your own independent learning.
All credits displayed on this page are ECTS credits.
15 credits
5 credits
10 credits
15 credits
25 credits
15 credits
15 credits
10 credits
25 credits
10 credits
10 credits
10 credits
5 credits
60 credits
15 credits
20 credits
25 credits
In Year 3, you’ll study or work abroad. During this, you'll be in a country that primarily uses your chosen language. You could spend this time:
You can combine two options or countries, spending half of Year 3 on each.
This will improve your language skills. Many students gain confidence, life experience and independence. It can also increase your professional network.
Your Year Abroad Officers and Tutor will support you during this time. If you choose to do a placement, our placements team will help you to find your role and support you during your time abroad.
Previous students have completed placements with:
Placements can’t be guaranteed but you will receive support from our dedicated placements team to help you. Study abroad opportunities are limited and are subject to availability at our partner institutions. Some placement and study abroad opportunities (including some within EU countries) might not be available to UK students because of visa restrictions.
Read more about studying or working abroad during your undergraduate language degreeYou’ll be taught and assessed by a variety of methods and it will vary between units. These methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding of the subject.
These lists are to give you an idea of some, but not all, of the learning and assessment methods used on this course. They are not exhaustive lists and methods are subject to change.
Timetabled contact hours, which may be made up of lectures, practical sessions, seminars and tutorials, vary throughout your course and between courses but are typically between 10 and 14 hours a week in your first year.
Our teaching for this course is delivered through in-person learning on campus, supported by high quality online provision. The significant majority of contact hours over the duration of your course will be in person, and this will be enhanced by some online delivery which will constitute a smaller proportion of these contact hours, depending on your programme of study, year of study and chosen optional units. This may be supplemented by additional activities such as a small number of online learning sessions (not live), skills development sessions, and personal tutorials.
The amount of timetabled sessions on campus in later years may vary based on the options you choose, with a greater emphasis on independent learning. Project and dissertation units will generally have fewer scheduled sessions to allow you time for your independent work – this may also mean the number of hours of timetabled sessions each week will vary within a year.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, you are expected to undertake independent learning and assessment activities. Typically, this might be around 21 to 30 hours per week in your first year, and include individual research, reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, preparing coursework assignments, presentations or revising for exams. After your first year, the emphasis on independent learning becomes greater, for example, you may do a final year project in the final year.
You will be assessed by a range of methods designed to develop and test your skills and knowledge.
As a guide, 60-80% of assessment is by coursework or essays. The remaining will be through examination. There will also be an element of assessment through practical work.
The balance of examinations and coursework may depend on the optional units you choose.
The final degree classification is determined by your second, third and final year marks. Each contributes 24%, 8% and 68% respectively
You will primarily be assessed as an individual but may also be assessed as part of a group. The balance of assessment methods will vary throughout your degree.
We can make reasonable adjustments to assessment procedures for students with disabilities, take a look at our Disability Service’s pages for information.
As well as being recognised as a higher academic qualification, a number of our degrees are also accredited by professional bodies in the United Kingdom. An accredited degree may entitle you to work in a specific profession within the UK, and abroad (where there are reciprocating arrangements with professional bodies in other countries).
The requirements to practise a profession vary from country to country. If you wish to practise your profession outside the United Kingdom, you are advised to confirm that the UK professional qualification you seek is valid in the country in which you are intending to work.
‘Living in France was a dream of mine. I’m a lot more confident and happy, and I feel like I’ve unlocked a great part of myself that had been hidden away.’
Your application, especially your personal statement, should demonstrate your enthusiasm for languages and politics, expressed through an interest and knowledge of certain social, political or economic aspects. This might include relevant reading, involvement in political or language societies, activism for a political party or an NGO or by participating in language exchange programmes.
You do not need to have studied Politics before to be suitable for this course. You will need a strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
We welcome students from a variety of backgrounds to our language courses. Language teaching in the first year of this degree for beginner languages is typically pitched at students who have little or no knowledge of the language. Teaching in the first year of this degree for advanced languages is intended for those who have studied the language to A level (or equivalent). If you have more advanced language skills you may want to contact us to discuss your options.
If you wish to study an advanced language you will need a strong performance in it as part of your entry qualifications. If you are not taking it as part of your entry qualifications, we can accept a relevant B2 level language qualification, such as DELF for French, TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat Deutsch or DSD for German or DELE for Spanish.
When completing your UCAS application for this course you will need to indicate the language and level you wish to study. You should do this under "further details" in the "choices" section of the application form, using one of our listed codes. The available language options are:
You can only choose to study one language through this degree.
We know that the context in which you are studying can have an impact on your ability to perform your best in exams and coursework, or limit which subjects or qualifications you are able to study at your school or college. We consider any application based on its merits, including your background and circumstances, including through:
AAB in three A levels.
For an advanced language option, your A level subjects must normally include that language.
Read more about our approach to A levels and AS levels.
We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level (unless studied alongside A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics alone). Read more about our approach to this qualification.
BBB or ABC in three A levels.
For an advanced language option, your A level subjects must normally include grade B in that language.
Our contextual offers were updated in October 2024 for September 2025 entry.
We seek to foster an outstanding and inclusive community at Bath. As part of that, we make reduced contextual offers to applicants from backgrounds who have historically been less likely to join us.
Find out if you may be eligible for a contextual offer.
Contextual offers are automatic - if you receive an offer and meet our eligibility criteria, you will receive the contextual offer instead of our typical or alternative offers.
We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level (unless studied alongside A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics alone). Read more about our approach to this qualification.
We know that you may have study beyond three A levels that will help prepare you for your degree. If you are not eligible for a contextual offer, we recognise these studies through our alternative offers.
ABB in three A levels plus one of:
The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales is not accepted in place of an A level for these offers. If you are studying three A levels and this qualification you are eligible for an alternative offer:
ABBB in three A levels and the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
For an advanced language option, your A level subjects must normally include that language.
If you receive an offer, you will receive each alternative offer you qualify for alongside the typical offer. You only need to meet one of these sets of conditions to meet your offer overall.
35 points overall and 6, 6, 5 in three Higher Level subjects.
Read more about how we consider the IB Diploma.
For an advanced language option, your Higher Level subjects must normally include that language but we can consider you if you study it at Standard Level. Our typical offer in this case would be 35 points overall with 6, 5, 5 in three Higher Level subjects plus 7 in Standard Level in your chosen language.
We consider applicants studying the IBCP on a case-by-case basis based on the individual IB certificates and vocational qualifications you study within the programme. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider IB Certificates and common vocational qualifications.
To study an advanced language option, you will normally need a 5 at Higher Level or 7 at Standard Level in that language, or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
If you are studying IB subjects as part of the IB Diploma, you will usually need to complete the full diploma programme to be considered.
If you do not follow the IB Diploma programme, we can consider stand-alone IB Higher Level Certificates either on their own or combined with other qualifications. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider IB Certificates.
To study an advanced language option, you will normally need a 5 at Higher Level or 7 at Standard Level in that language, or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
35 points overall and 5, 5, 5 or 6, 5, 4 in three Higher Level subjects.
For an advanced language option, your Higher Level subjects must normally include grade 5 in that language.
Our contextual offers were updated in October 2024 for September 2025 entry.
We seek to foster an outstanding and inclusive community at Bath. As part of that, we make reduced contextual offers to applicants from backgrounds who have historically been less likely to join us.
Find out if you may be eligible for a contextual offer.
Contextual offers are automatic - if you receive an offer and meet our eligibility criteria, you will receive the contextual offer instead of our typical or alternative offers.
For an advanced language option, your Higher Level subjects must normally include that language but we can consider you if you study it at Standard Level. Our typical offer in this case would be 35 points overall with 5, 5, 4 in three Higher Level subjects plus 7 in Standard Level in your chosen language.
DDD in the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) in a relevant subject area.
We prefer the above qualifications to be in a relevant subject area and are unable to consider qualifications in Public Services, Uniformed Protective Services, Travel and Tourism and other less relevant disciplines.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
Suitable applicants progressing via this route may be invited to interview as part of the admissions process.
Read more about our approach to Extended Diplomas.
We accept Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Certificates alongside A levels or in combination with each other. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider BTEC Diplomas and Extended Certificates.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
D*DD in the Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in a relevant subject area.
We prefer the above qualifications to be in a relevant subject area and are unable to consider qualifications in Public Services, Uniformed Protective Services, Travel and Tourism and other less relevant disciplines.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
Suitable applicants progressing via this route may be invited to interview as part of the admissions process.
Read more about our approach to Extended Diplomas.
We accept Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Certificates alongside A levels or in combination with each other. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider OCR Cambridge Technical Diplomas and Extended Certificates.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
T Levels are not considered suitable preparation for this degree programme and are therefore not accepted for entry. If you require advice on how you may academically prepare to study this degree or present with a mix of qualifications, you should contact our Admissions Progression Team at admissions-progression@bath.ac.uk.
AB in two Advanced Highers.
For an advanced language option, your Advanced Highers must normally include that language.
We make offers based on Advanced Highers. You will typically be expected to have completed five Scottish Highers and your grades in these will be considered as part of your application. We prefer applicants who have achieved at least AAABB in their Highers.
Read more about how we consider Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers
A pass in the Access to HE Diploma with at least 33 credits achieved at Distinction and 6 credits achieved at Merit or above.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
Please contact us to discuss the content of the Access course you are studying to check that the units you are covering are suitable.
Suitable applicants progressing via this route will be invited to interview as part of the admissions process.
We accept a range of other qualifications offered in UK, as well as combinations of typically studied qualifications (such as A levels and BTECs). You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be considered.
Read more about how we consider UK qualifications.
To study an advanced language option, you will need grade B in an A level in that language or any suitable qualification or test at B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
To study a beginner language option, you will need strong performance in a language other than your own of at least GCSE level (or equivalent).
You can contact us at admissions@bath.ac.uk for more advice.
For a beginner language option, you will typically need a good grade in at least one language GCSE (other than in your own language) if you do not study a language at A level (or equivalent).
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the Indian 12th Standard and our entry requirements are listed under the 'India' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A weighted average mark of 10.
For an advanced language option, you will normally need 7 in the relevant language subject (French A, German A or Spanish A).
We may be able to consider your application if you are taking the Højere Handelseksamen (HHX), Højere Teknisk Eksamen (HTX), Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF). Please contact us to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAB in three subjects.
We do not accept General Studies as one of these three subjects. We do not accept grade A- in place of grade A or grade B- in place of grade B.
For an advanced language option, you will also need to meet B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages through a separate qualification in the chosen language.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
We are reviewing our typical requirements for these qualifications for this course and will publish new information soon.
If you have any questions, please contact us at admissions@bath.ac.uk.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5, 5, 4 in three Advanced Placement Tests.
We accept no more than one Calculus AP as one of these subjects. AP Seminar and AP Research are not accepted as one of these AP subjects
For an advanced language option, your subjects will need to include a relevant AP in that language:
We assess applications from students taking AP examinations on an individual basis.
When assessing your application, we will also be looking for evidence of a high academic standard across a breadth of study, for example through additional AP Tests, your wider school curriculum and SAT or ACT scores if you have taken them.
If you would like advice about your own set of qualifications, please email admissions@bath.ac.uk
If you are unable to take the Advanced Placement tests required above, we may be able to consider your application if you can demonstrate a high level of academic achievement through honours, dual enrolment or equivalent ‘advanced’ level classes on a case-by-case basis. Typically, we would be looking for one honours, dual enrolment or equivalent ‘advanced’ level class in place of each Advanced Placement test.
For an advanced language option, if you do not have an Advanced Placement test in that language, we may be able to consider honours, dual enrolment or equivalent ‘advanced’ level classes in the language on a case-by-case basis.
When assessing your application, we will also be looking for evidence of a high academic standard across a breadth of study, for example through your wider school curriculum and SAT or ACT scores if you have them.
Please send a copy of your high school transcript and details of any pending classes to admissions@bath.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your application.
3.2 GPA
We consider applications from students with Associate Degrees on a case-by-case basis and will carefully review the content of the classes you have studied. We will be looking for a high standard across a breadth of academic study.
For an advanced language option, we will be looking for you to have studied sufficient credit with high grades in that language to be suitably prepared to enter this course.
Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk with a copy of your university and high school transcripts and details of any pending classes if you would like to discuss your application.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
83% average across 5 or 6 grade 12 subjects
The number of grade 12 subjects we require will depend on your province or territory. Subjects with a less academic focus may be excluded.
For an advanced language option, you must achieve 85% in that language at a suitable level. Please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss your language courses.
83% average in a pre-university programme
For an advanced language option, you must achieve 85% in that language at a suitable level. Please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss your language courses.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5.5 overall with 5.8 in a state matriculation exam (excluding Bulgarian).
For an advanced language option, your state matriculation exams must normally include that language at a minimum 5.8.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5, 5, 4 in three elective subjects or 5, 4 in two elective subjects plus 5 in Core English or Mathematics.
For an advanced language option you will also need to meet B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages through a separate qualification in the chosen language
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
84% overall.
For an advanced language option, you will need to obtain a minimum 9.0 in that language.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Pass with A in 800 credits and B in a further 1200 credits.
For an advanced language option, you will normally need B in the relevant language subject (French 5 or 6, German 5 or 6 or Spanish 5 or 6).
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Average of 80% across four subjects.
For an advanced language option you will also need to meet B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages through a separate qualification in the chosen language.
We do not accept Physical Education as one of these four subjects. Other subjects with a less academic focus may also be excluded. Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your subject choices.
These requirements are for the CBSE and CISCE boards. Please contact us if you are taking this qualification with a different board.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
80% and 75% in two Higher subjects plus 5, 5, 4 in three Standard subjects.
For an advanced language option, you must normally achieve 75% in that language as a Higher subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A score of 8.3 overall.
For advanced French or German, you must normally achieve 8 in that language studied as a first foreign language in your final year as part of your Titulo de Bachiller. If you have studied the language as a second foreign language, please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
If you wish to apply for advanced Spanish, you should be aware that you may find the language element of this course less challenging in the first year if you have completed the Titulo de Bachiller. If you are studying this qualification and wish to apply for this option please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
19 in the Apolytirion plus AB in two A levels.
For an advanced language option, your A level subjects must normally include that language.
We cannot accept the Apolytirion unless it is studied alongside A levels.
We do not accept Pan Hellenic examinations in place of an A level.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider a Foundation Year or if you are located here in the UK, explore the qualifications that may be available to you.
Please contact us for further advice on admissions@bath.ac.uk
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An average of 4 in the common core subjects and an average of 4.6 across six optional programme subjects.
For an advanced language option, you will normally need 4 in the relevant language subject (French III, German III or Spanish III).
These requirements are for the Specialisation in General Studies programme. Please contact us if you are taking a different programme
We consider your grades in final assessment for each subject, or in examinations where you do not have a final assessment for that subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAB in three H2 level subjects.
For an advanced language option, your H2 subjects must normally include that language.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
85, 85, 80 in three extended subjects.
For an advanced language option, you must achieve 80 in the extended language subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
18 in the Apolytirion plus AB in two A levels.
For an advanced language option, you will require a B in that language.
We can often consider applications from students taking the Apolytirion in public schools in Cyprus without any additional A levels. This will depend on your subject stream and the advanced level subjects you are taking. Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk to find out more about our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
14 overall with 15 in one speciality subject in the final year or 13 overall with 15, 14 in two speciality subjects in the final year
13 overall with 15 in one speciality subject in the final year or 12 overall with 15, 14 in two speciality subjects in the final year
For advanced German or Spanish options, you must normally achieve 14 in that subject as one of your speciality subjects in your final year.
By speciality subjects, we mean the subjects studied as 'enseignements de spécialités' as part of the General Baccalaureate. The grade we require is the grade awarded in the speciality subject from the written examinations taken in your final year.
We may also be able to consider your application if you have studied the language as your Language A subject or your Language B subject. Please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
If you are studying the French Baccalaureate and wish to apply for the advanced French option please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 in six subjects from the Irish Leaving Certificate.
For an advanced language option, you will normally require H2 in that language as part of your Higher subjects.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
8.75 overall with 90, 90, 85 in three state exams.
You will need 85 in French in the state exam to study advanced French in your degree. To study advanced German or Spanish you will need to obtain B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages in that language subject through a separate qualification.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
1.6 overall
For advanced French or Spanish, you will be required to obtain 12 in that subject.
If you wish to apply for advanced German, you should be aware that you may find the language element of this course less challenging in the first year if you have completed the Abitur. If you are studying this qualification and wish to apply for this option please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
The required grade must be achieved in your final examinations if you take them. If you do not take one of these subjects in your final examinations, you will need an average grade across four semesters in it.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
8.8 overall with 9.0, 9.0, 8.5 in three subjects.
For an advanced language option, you will require 8.5 in that language.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall score of 87% in the classical or languages pathway with 9, 9, 8 in three subjects from your final report card.
For an advanced language option, you must normally achieve 8 in that language as a first foreign language. If you have studied the language as a second or third foreign language, please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Level 3 Diploma achieved with Merit including two Level 3 subjects with 14 credits at Excellence (E) and one Level 3 subject with 14 credits at Merit (M).
For an advanced language option, you will require a minimum 14 credits at Merit (M) in that language as a Level 3 subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
77666 in five subjects
We do not accept Life Orientation as one of these five subjects.
For an advanced language option you will also need to meet B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages through a separate qualification in the chosen language.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this curriculum whether you have studied in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept, or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies, you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
We accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Due to the variety, structure and grading of these qualifications, applications are welcomed from students with these qualifications but we consider them on on a case-by-case basis. If you are interested in applying, please contact us on admissions@bath.ac.uk for further advice. Please provide copies of your school reports within your email for our consideration.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall average of 17.5 with 18, 18, 17 in three subjects.
For an advanced language option, you must normally achieve a 17 in a that language at "continuation" level. If you have studied the language at "initiation" level, please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk to discuss our requirements.
Your subject grades will be taken as an average of your school results and external exams where relevant.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Fees and funding information for International Politics and Modern Languages BA (Hons) with study or work abroad
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home or Overseas student.
Learn how we decide fee statusFee information is not yet available for this course. Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students.
In Year 3, you will be required to spend time studying or working abroad. During this time, you are responsible for your travel, accommodation and living costs. These may vary depending on where you are based and your own personal choices.
If you study in China or Russia (or a suitable country for your Russian pathway, such as Estonia, Kazakhstan or Georgia) with one of our partner institutions, you will be required to pay additional tuition costs to that partner. These are not covered by UK Government tuition fee loans.
The exact fees may vary from year-to-year, but you should budget between £1,500 and £2,500-per-semester for this. There are no additional tuition costs for study as part of our other language options.
If you are studying an undergraduate course, you may be able to take out a loan for your tuition fees and living costs.
Read more about tuition fee loansYou could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath. This is in addition to your student loan and you do not have to pay it back.
Read more about bursaries and scholarshipsYou can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer. You may also be eligible for a student loan to help you pay your fees.
Read more about your payment optionsYou will need to budget at least £100 for the cost of photocopying, printing and binding. You will also need to budget for the cost of textbooks.
Some courses involve visits away from campus and you may be required to pay some or all of the costs of travel, accommodation and food and drink.
If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement. If you are thinking about studying or working abroad as part of your course, you may have to prove that you have a certain amount of money in your bank account to get a visa. Please read the information about [planning your finances for your placement year](If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement. If you are thinking about studying or working abroad as part of your course, you may have to prove that you have a certain amount of money in your bank account to get a visa. Please read the information about planning your finances for your placement year which includes potential sources of funding, travel insurance, and visas.
We will usually assess you based on your UCAS application. If you hold a language qualification that is not covered by our typical entry requirements we may invite you to attend an interview to assess your language level. If you are studying certain qualifications, such as an Access to HE Diploma or a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma, you may be invited to attend an interview as part of our selection process.
Very exceptionally we may invite you to an interview if you have circumstances we cannot assess from an application alone.
Our interview page gives more information on what you should expect from an interview.
This course was updated with a new structure, title and languages for applicants starting from September 2020 onwards. The data from Discover Uni is based on a previous version of this course with differences in the choices of languages offered. Some data has been grouped with similar courses where appropriate.
You can use these course profiles as a guide:
Learn more about living and studying at Bath
Visit our undergraduate virtual experienceFurther develop your knowledge and understanding of advanced grammatical structures, learn new vocabulary and expressions. You will learn to manipulate the language accurately, in spoken and written forms and develop your listening skills. You will explore reading techniques and develop writing skills, such as summaries, essay writing and critical analysis of texts. This will be done in pair and group activities, including discussions, audio-visual activities as well as debates and presentations
Gain the essential skills required for the study of political phenomena.
Starting from the question of 'what it is we do when we study politics', you will learn practical skills, such as how to read academic articles, how to research around political topics, and how to produce an academic essay on political questions.
You'll study this unit in tandem with the two introductory units of Politics and International Relations.
Advanced language route: you will study both ‘History and culture 1’ units that apply to your chosen languages. Advanced and beginner (ab initio) route: you will study the ‘History and culture 1’ unit that applies to your advanced language choice.
Explore the history, theories and issues that define the agenda in world politics. Examine world events from new angles and apply what you have learned.
You will be introduced to core theoretical frameworks and apply this analytical toolkit to issues such as war, peace, trade, international cooperation, and diplomacy as well as to contemporary case studies that are regularly updated in line with the latest developments in international politics.
Develop your knowledge and familiarity with your chosen language.
You will receive an introduction to grammar, and develop your writing, speaking and listening skills. This combination will improve your vocabulary and prepare you for communicative situations.
You’ll also develop an understanding of the major issues in society, politics and culture within the country your language originates from.
Enhance your knowledge of the essential concepts and analytical approaches that shape politics and political analysis and develop a sophisticated understanding of the building blocks of political life.
You’ll cover a range of political concepts and study different analytical perspectives, from power and liberty to climate and race.
Advance your linguistic development through exposure to authentic materials chosen to prepare you for your time abroad, equipping you with both the skills and knowledge required to thrive in your chosen country.
Study a wide range of topics and tasks ranging from practical aspects to political, cultural, and social issues. Communication in all its aspects is at the core of the unit, covering intercultural challenges, key social, political, and cultural topics and textual forms.
Advanced language route: you will study both ‘History and culture 2’ units that apply to your chosen languages. Advanced and beginner (ab initio) route: you will study the ‘History and culture 2’ unit that applies to your advanced language choice.
Building on what you learnt in Year 1, you will continue to improve your skills in your chosen language.
You will study in depth writing and speaking. This will improve your ability to communicate and express complex ideas appropriately.
By engaging with original materials (text, audio and video), you will learn to identify and use advanced grammatical structures. This will broaden your vocabulary, and develop your understanding of a wide variety of cultural, social and political contexts.
Analyse the research, theories and practice of security, conflict, and peace-making.
You'll learn about the historical trends in conflict, and explore main concepts and theories in conflict analysis and security studies.
Finally, you'll examine current conflicts, involving you in coursework that applies analytical tools taught in the unit.
Gain the practical skills needed to address specific research problems.
You'll learn about using various techniques and types of data, and be guided through the process of empirical research. This will help you to:
You’ll go through these during in-class exercises and practical applications.
Exploring the key philosophical traditions upon which contemporary politics is based, you will engage with key political thinkers and topics such as political violence, justice, and democracy. You’ll have the opportunity to develop a capacity to contextualise and evaluate current political disagreements, from arguments over freedom of speech to the role of the state, considering ongoing debates in political thought and theory.
In Year 2, you’ll choose one 5 credit optional unit. Optional units will cover general issues from across politics and international areas, such as parliamentary democracy to the politics of technology.
You will study or work abroad. You can choose to spend this time doing a professional placement, studying at one of our overseas partner institutions, working as an English language assistant, or a combination of two of these options. This is an opportunity to enhance your CV, gain valuable new skills, try out a career option, or experience life in a different cultural environment.
Building on the skills and experiences you gained in years 1 and 2, as well as your time abroad, you will work to achieve a greater level of fluency in the foreign language.
In your final year, you’ll further develop your intercultural awareness and linguistic skills, to help you prepare for the professional world.
A wide range of authentic materials (texts, audio and video) will be used to cover topics related to the political, societal, cultural and business environment of each country.
For your dissertation you’ll design and conduct a research project under supervision in an approved topic in politics (this may include related political aspects of related subjects such as social policy, media, etc.).
In your final year, you will study a total of 25 credits of optional units. 15 credits will be taken from politics topics and 10 credits will be in your target language. These will consist of either all-year 10 credit units or single semester 5 credit units, or single semester 10 or 5 credit options.
Topics may include: