International Relations with French

Programme overview:

The BA in International Relations with French at the University of Birmingham is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to equip students with a deep understanding of global political dynamics, international affairs, and the role of language and culture in diplomatic contexts. This programme offers a unique blend of political science, international studies, and language learning, providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage effectively in international environments. Throughout the course, students will examine key issues such as global security, international organizations, economic development, human rights, and environmental challenges, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in diplomacy, government, NGOs, international business, and media.

A significant component of the programme is the study of the French language and culture, which enhances students' intercultural communication skills and cultural awareness. The French language modules are designed to develop fluency and comprehension, enabling graduates to communicate confidently in various professional settings. The programme also emphasizes practical skills through opportunities for work placements, internships, and language immersion trips, fostering real-world experience and employability.

Students will benefit from the University of Birmingham's strong links with international organizations, diplomatic missions, and partner institutions, providing networking opportunities and exposure to the practical aspects of international relations. The curriculum is delivered by expert academics and practitioners in the fields of political science, international law, history, and language studies. The university’s vibrant campus environment offers a diverse international community, enriching the learning experience with multicultural perspectives.

Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to pursue careers across a range of sectors, including international policy, diplomacy, journalism, education, and cultural exchange. They will possess a multidisciplinary understanding of international relations combined with proficient language skills in French, making them valuable assets in the global job market. The programme emphasizes the development of research, communication, and analytical skills, ensuring that students are ready to meet the challenges of working in complex international contexts. Whether students aim to continue their studies at postgraduate level or enter the workforce directly, the BA in International Relations with French offers a rigorous and enriching academic journey that prepares students to make meaningful contributions to international society.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3805 Year (EEA)
• EUR 12790 Year (Non-EEA)

Home/EU £3,375; International £11,340

• English

Course Content

First year

This year consists of introductory modules in international relations and your chosen language. You either continue to study a language in which you have an A level or, in some cases, you can begin a new language. In addition, there is the opportunity to take one optional course.

Second year

The second year is designed to permit specialisation in areas of particular interest while deepening your language skills.

Third year

The third year is spent studying at a European university. You spend about half your time in language studies and half taking courses either in the history and politics of the country or in international relations.

Fourth year

When you return to Birmingham for your fourth year you study advanced courses in your language and in international affairs.

Career opportunities

There is an ever-increasing demand for graduates who have knowledge of a modern language, as well as grounding in international relations. Our students find careers in a wide range of fields.

Related links

Department of Political Science and International Studies website: www.polsis.bham.ac.uk

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 80(Grade A) TOEFL iBT® test : 93

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: AAB

Required subjects and grades: A level French grade B

General Studies: not accepted

Additional information:

Other qualifications are considered |

International students:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 3436 points including an appropriate language at HL grade 5

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Birmingham.

The International Relations with French programme at the University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines the study of global political dynamics with the development of language skills in French. This integrated approach allows students to gain a deep understanding of international affairs, diplomatic practices, and global issues, while also achieving proficiency in French, which is one of the world's major diplomatic and international languages. The programme typically spans three or four years, depending on whether students choose to undertake a placement year or study abroad. Throughout their studies, students are exposed to diverse topics including international security, foreign policy analysis, human rights, global political economy, and regional studies of France, Francophone Africa, and other French-speaking regions.

In addition to core modules in political science and international relations, students undertake language modules designed to enhance reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. These modules aim to facilitate fluency and intercultural competence, which are essential for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, journalism, and global business. Many courses involve contemporary case studies, simulations, and group projects that foster critical thinking and practical skills in negotiation, analysis, and communication.

The university emphasizes applied learning, offering opportunities for internships, guest lectures from international experts, and participation in model United Nations or similar events. Study abroad options enable students to spend a year in France or another Francophone country, immersing themselves in the language and culture while gaining valuable international experience. The programme is designed not only to produce graduates with strong language skills but also to develop nuanced understanding of international relations, cultural sensitivity, and analytical skills needed in a variety of global careers.

Students benefit from access to the university’s dedicated language resource centres, international relations research centres, and active student societies that promote cultural exchange and professional development. The programme prepares students for careers in diplomacy, international NGOs, multinational corporations, journalism, and further academic study, offering a balanced combination of language mastery and political analysis. The combination of theoretical grounding and practical skills makes this course highly attractive for students seeking a dynamic and globalized career path, with a special focus on the French-speaking world and international diplomacy.