University of Bristol United Kingdom

BA Politics and Portuguese

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA Politics and Portuguese at the University of Bristol offers you a compelling pathway to understand the intricate workings of political systems and international relations, while simultaneously achieving fluency in Portuguese and gaining deep cultural insights into Lusophone societies. This four-year undergraduate degree is ideal for students eager to analyse global political dynamics, from comparative government and international relations to political theory, and to engage with the growing influence of Portuguese-speaking nations worldwide. You will cultivate a sophisticated understanding of political concepts and structures, preparing you for a future where cross-cultural communication and geopolitical awareness are paramount.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, your learning journey will integrate rigorous political science with comprehensive Portuguese language and cultural studies. You will explore core political concepts and select from a wide array of optional units in politics and international relations, alongside modules dedicated to Lusophone history, culture, and cinema. A significant highlight of your degree is the compulsory year abroad in a Portuguese-speaking country, which will profoundly enhance your linguistic proficiency and intercultural competence. Upon graduation, you will possess a versatile skill set, positioning you for diverse careers in international diplomacy, global business, journalism, and public policy, armed with both analytical acumen and invaluable linguistic expertise.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Politics and Portuguese program offers a comprehensive exploration of political theory, international relations, and comparative politics alongside intensive study of the Portuguese language and Lusophone cultures. Students will engage with foundational political concepts and theories, develop analytical skills through research methods, and gain a deep understanding of diverse political systems and historical contexts. The curriculum includes a mandatory year abroad to immerse students in Portuguese-speaking environments, culminating in advanced language proficiency and specialized political and cultural studies.

1 Year 1 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Political Concepts Mandatory
Thinking Politically Mandatory
Theories of International Relations Optional
Comparative Government and Politics: An Introduction Optional
Portuguese Language and Cultures 1b Mandatory
Key Moments in Lusophone History and Culture Mandatory

2 Year 2 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Investigating Society (Politics) Mandatory
Development Studies Optional
Co-operation and Integration In Europe Optional
Modern British Government and Politics Optional
Democracy and US Government Optional
The Politics of Sub-Saharan Africa Optional
Principles of Quantitative Social Science Optional
Conducting a Research Project using Secondary Data Optional
Contemporary Political Theory Optional

3 Year 3 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Year Abroad TB-1 Mandatory
Year Abroad TB-2 Mandatory

4 Year 4 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Portuguese Language for School of Modern Languages and Joint degrees Mandatory
Dictatorships, prisons, and writing(s) in the Portuguese and Spanish-speaking worlds Optional
Images and Text: Hybrid Media and Power in Latin America Optional
Translating in a Professional Context Optional
Catalan Language (follow-on) Optional
Czech Language (follow-on) Optional
Follow-on Portuguese Optional
Liaison Interpreting Optional
Theoretical Approaches to Language Teaching Optional
Studying and Making Early Printed Books Optional
Transnational Narrative in pre-modern cultures Optional
Communism in Europe Optional
Sociolinguistics: Language Variation and Change Optional
Contemporary Feminist Thought: Debates and Issues Optional
The Political Economy of China Optional
European Foreign Policy Optional
US Foreign Policy Optional
How to Win a Political Argument Optional
The Politics of Gender Optional
Popular Culture and World Politics Optional
The Politics of Post Apartheid South Africa Optional
Critical Security Studies Optional
Dissertation Optional
States and Markets Optional
Contemporary Chinese Foreign Policy Optional
The Politics of the Contemporary Labour Party Optional
The Politics of Human Rights Optional
Power, Politics and Food Optional
Northern Ireland: conflict and resolution Optional
Gender and Security Optional
Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict Transition in Latin America Optional
Apocalypse or Ecotopia? Optional
Politics of Rebellion Optional
Populism Optional
Philosopher Queens Optional
Britain and the EU: The Politics of Brexit Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 137,873.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsAnimation & Visual EffectsBroadcasting & TelevisionClinical & Medical ServicesCybersecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationMedical Research & Clinical TrialsRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Epigram

Meta

United Nations

University of Exeter

University of Oxford

Why Study BA Politics and Portuguese at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Politics and Portuguese at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International students in the UK on degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, you can choose from various tests. Minimum scores include TOEFL 95 overall, IELTS 7 overall, or PTE 71 overall.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Political Analyst, International Relations Specialist, Language Instructor, or Diplomatic Service Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course blends politics and international relations with Portuguese language studies, focusing on political theory and international relations. You'll also explore the culture of Portuguese-speaking countries and spend your third year abroad to enhance your language skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA Politics and Portuguese program is September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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