Modern Languages and International Relations BA

Course overview

You can study international relations at Leeds with one of 10 languages.

On this four-year course, you’ll examine the issues facing international society today and the challenges facing some of the most important players in international relations. Optional topics range from ongoing debates and conflicts within international relations and security, decolonial approaches, social movements across cultures, and translation and interpreting. You’ll also study the society and culture of the countries where your chosen language is spoken.

Whether you’re starting your language from a beginners’ level, or with prior knowledge, intensive language modules will prepare you for your year abroad, where you’ll further enhance your linguistic skills and enrich your knowledge of how your host country interacts with other countries and regional or global institutions.

You’ll be able to choose to take your Final Year Project either with international relations or with your chosen language.

The international outlook and knowledge you develop alongside advanced language skills will allow you to consider career options in a range of fields when you graduate.

Choose one of the following languages:

We offer the following languages at two entry levels: beginners or with prior experience (e.g. A-level or equivalent). If you have prior experience in Arabic or Thai, please contact us before applying:

• Arabic (from beginners' level only)
• Chinese
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Thai

You must include your chosen language in the ‘Further Details’ section of your UCAS application.

Specialist facilities

With a variety of specialist facilities and four libraries on campus, you’ll find plenty of space for study, group work, and research.

The Language Centre includes digital language labs, audio/video practice booths and Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). The Language Zone offers excellent learning material in more than 50 languages, including online resources and advice. The Language Exchange and the Language Groups programme provide opportunities to practice with other learners and native speakers. You can also volunteer to help other learners and enhance your CV at the same time.

The world-class Brotherton Library is home to a wide variety of manuscripts, archive and early printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. These include rare copies of magazines and unpublished letters with materials across the range of languages that we teach, from medieval Latin to the Leeds Russian Archive. Our main library resources are also excellent, and the University Library offers a comprehensive training programme to help you make the most of them.

Our Martin Thomas Translation Labs feature state-of-the-art computing facilities for translation studies as well as Interpreter Training Suites – ideal if you are considering a career in interpreting.

We also have links with several institutions that support language-learning on campus, such as Instituto Cervantes (Spanish), Instituto Camoes (Portuguese) and Institut Ramon Llull (Catalan).

Course details and modules

On this joint honours course, you'll combine the study of international relations with your chosen language.

In your first and second year and you’ll learn about international organisations and the role they play in world order.

Whether you’re starting your language from beginners’ level, or with prior knowledge, you’ll reach a professional standard in your chosen language through intensive learning practice and a year abroad. If you're taking your language as a beginner, you'll focus on quickly building up your language skills through your compulsory language modules. If you are an advanced learner, your compulsory language module will allow you to consolidate and broaden your language skills.

You’ll complement your language studies by exploring cultures and societies around the world, choosing from a range of topics, including literature, cinema, popular culture, history and politics.

Residence abroad is a compulsory part of this course and is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a different language and culture. It will be in your third year of study, when you’ll spend up to a year in a country where your chosen language is spoken. See the Study Abroad and Work Placements section below for details.

In your final year, you’ll be able to choose to take your Final Year Project either with international relations or with your chosen language.

Depending on your choice of Final Year Project, you'll also have the flexibility to choose from a range of more specialised international relations or cultural modules to deepen your knowledge. You might have the opportunity to enhance your professional language skills, through modules on translation, interpreting or languages for business.

By combining international relations with language, communication and professional skills, you’ll be prepared for an international career in a range of fields when you graduate.

Course Structure

These represent typical modules studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Every student takes compulsory weekly classes in their chosen language and a selection of compulsory and optional modules in international relations. They also take further modules in culture and society.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

International Politics (20 credits) - This module introduces you to the key international issues we face today and the puzzles these raise. This includes explaining what shaped the world we live in, and understanding the patterns of international politics.

Comparative Politics (20 credits) - The module introduces major concepts and issues in the comparative study of politics and government. It explores the logic of comparative political analysis as well as the value of comparing political behaviour and institutions across time and space, basic varieties of political institutions, processes, and political cultures in the world.

Politics, Culture and Society (20 credits) - This module brings the two subjects you’re studying together to help you make meaningful connections between them. It explores key debates that shape the practice of politics internationally and how awareness of differing cultural and intercultural perspectives help us better understand contemporary international politics.

If you study your language from beginners level: you take two intensive language modules (40 credits)

If you study your language with prior knowledge: you study one or two language modules (depending on your language) (20 or 40 credits)

An introductory module to the culture and history of the societies where your chosen language is spoken (20 credits)

Optional modules:

If you study your language with prior knowledge, you will study at least one optional or a discovery module

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Theories of International Relations (20 credits) - This module offers you advanced training in International Relations Theory by critically analysing rival theories. You will develop critical thinking through assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.

Global Security Challenges (20 credits) - The module introduces you to key global security challenges and the debates on security in international relations. It examines the concept, role and making of security in the contemporary international system.

If you study French, German, Italian, Spanish or Portuguese: You will study one language module (20 credits)

If you study Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian or Thai: You will study two language modules (40 credits)

Year 3

You will spend your third year abroad in a country where your chosen language is spoken.

You will either study abroad or complete a work placement. Options vary between the languages.

Year 4

Compulsory modules

A Final Year Project (either in International Relations or your chosen language) (40 credits) - You will research in a depth a topic of your choice with the help of a supervisor.

One advanced language modules in your chosen language

Optional modules

You will study optional modules from a range of options.

Typical International Relations options include:

• British Foreign Policy
• Gender and Security in Global Politics
• Terrorism: Concepts, Debates, Cases
• Video Games: Politics, Society and Culture
• Violence and Reconciliation in Africa
• Europe in the World
• Nuclear Weapons and Global Politics
• Global Political Economy

Find out more information on typical modules for the different language combinations of this course. You can study the following languages as part of your Modern Languages degree:

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• Thai

Learning and teaching

Our tutors are experts in their fields whose teaching is informed by their own cutting-edge research.

They are passionate researchers and dedicated teachers who use a range of teaching methods to help you benefit from their expertise, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.

Independent study is also central to this degree, since it allows you to develop your skills in research and analysis. You’ll be able to apply your skills and knowledge in a final year research project on a topic of your own choice.

We're committed to an innovative and inclusive approach to teaching, which draws on a variety of activities, including flipped learning, group presentations, and bespoke digital resources to prepare you for your seminar discussions.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We are creative in our approach to assessment and always use it to support your independent learning. We use a wide range of methods including essays, exams, presentations, podcasts, literature reviews, reflective logs, and group projects.

Assessments are designed to deliver the transferable skills needed for the world of work. Task-based activities are designed to evidence critical thinking, demonstrate initiative, and show knowledge of a range of relevant subjects and sources.

Support for assessments is integrated into our teaching, and you'll usually have the opportunity for formative assessments that allow you to practice your skills and do well in your formal assessments. We also run extra classes on skills such as public speaking, structuring essays and exam technique that you’ll be able to attend throughout your time at Leeds.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB

• Where a post-A level language route is taken, a B grade in the relevant language is required.

• Where any other beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer: BBC at A Level and pass Access to Leeds.

Extended project and Access to Leeds: BCC at A Level and A in a relevant EPQ and pass Access to Leeds.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information. lifelonglearning@leeds.ac.uk

Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year

This course is designed for students whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university (also known as widening participation backgrounds) and who do not currently meet admissions criteria for direct entry to a degree.

The course will give you the opportunity to be taught by academic staff and provides intensive support to enable your development of academic skills and knowledge. On successful completion of your foundation year, you will progress to your chosen degree course. Find out more about the Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

You need to tell us your language combination when you apply. Input your chosen language in the Further Details section on your UCAS application.

Read our guidance about applying.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies

Contact us

School of Languages, Cultures and Societies Undergraduate Admissions

Email: lcsug@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

By taking this joint honours course, you’ll gain proficiency in one of the world languages and attain an international perspective by exploring how nations interact on the global stage. You’ll acquire the language and professional skills to prepare you for an international career in a wide range of sectors.

As well as demonstrating that you’re intellectually versatile, this course will equip you with a wide range of transferrable skills that employers value such as:

• Research critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions.
• Communication skills, enabling you to defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing.
• Strong organisational skills and the confidence to work independently or in a team.
• A deep understanding of cultural diversity, allowing you to work effectively with people whose backgrounds differ from yours.

Leeds graduates have pursued careers across the globe and in a range of sectors including: education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service, business and finance and the charity sector. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study, including further training in language-based careers such as translating and interpreting.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Study abroad and work placements

Your residence abroad is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture while sharpening and refining your language skills every day. For many of our students, it’s the highlight of their degree.

Your Year Abroad will be your third year of study, when you’ll spend up to a year in a country where your chosen language is spoken.

Your year abroad opportunities will depend on your chosen language. Depending on your host country, you may be able to complete a work placement, work as a Foreign Language Assistant (FLA) for the British Council, or study at a partner university. You may also be able to combine a work placement and a study placement.

If you are studying French, German, Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish, you may be able to study or work in a country where one of these languages is spoken. If you are studying Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or Thai, you will be studying an intensive language course.