University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

International Development and Languages BA (Hons) with a year abroad

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 International Development and Languages BA (Hons) with a year abroad at the University of Portsmouth is designed for students passionate about addressing global inequalities and fostering cross-cultural understanding. You will explore critical issues in international development, such as poverty, environmental sustainability, and access to education and healthcare, while simultaneously building fluency in a chosen language—French, Spanish, or Mandarin Chinese. This degree equips you with the analytical skills to understand complex global challenges and the linguistic capabilities to engage effectively with diverse communities worldwide.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over four years, including an immersive year abroad. You will develop your language proficiency through a blend of practical application and cultural exploration, utilising professional-grade language labs and resources. Throughout your studies, you will engage with modules covering geopolitics, climate crises, and development economics, preparing you for impactful careers. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of global issues and advanced language skills, ready for roles in international organisations, NGOs, government, or education.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) in International Development and Languages with a year abroad program offers a comprehensive exploration of global development issues, examining topics such as the making of the Global South, climate crises, and the geopolitics of Africa. Students will also develop proficiency in a chosen language, with options including French, Mandarin, and Spanish, progressing through various language modules. The curriculum integrates critical thinking, professional identity development, and a range of compulsory and elective modules covering diverse aspects of international relations, social sciences, and professional skills.

1 Year 1

Critical Thinking and Professional Identity Compulsory
Global Development Compulsory
The Making of the Global South Compulsory
French Grade 1 and 2 - Language In Use Elective
Mandarin Grade 1 and 2 - Language In Use Elective
Spanish Grade 1 and 2 - Language In Use Elective
French Grade 1 and 2 - General Language Elective
Mandarin Grade 1 and 2 - General Language Elective
Spanish Grade 1 and 2 - General Language Elective
Language Project (French) Elective
Language Project (Spanish) Elective
French General Language Grade 3 Elective
Spanish General Language Grade 3 Elective

2 Year 2

Climate Crises Compulsory
The Geopolitics and Geo-Economics of Africa Compulsory
French General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 1) Elective
Mandarin General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 1) Elective
Spanish General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 1) Elective
French General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 2) Elective
Mandarin General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 2) Elective
Spanish General Language Grade 3 and 4 (Part 2) Elective
French General Language Grade 4 Elective
Spanish General Language Grade 4 Elective
Language For Professional Communication (French) Elective
Language For Professional Communication (Spanish) Elective
Analysing Foreign Policy Compulsory
Development and Democracy in Latin America Compulsory
East Asian States and Societies Compulsory
Introduction to Teaching Compulsory
Introduction to Translation Compulsory
Empire and its Afterlives in Britain, Europe and Africa Compulsory
Engaged Citizenship in Humanities and Social Sciences Compulsory
Global Security Compulsory
Intercultural Perspectives on Communication Compulsory
Marketing and Communication Compulsory
Modernity and Globalisation Compulsory
Nationalism and Migration: Chaos, Crisis and the Everyday Compulsory
News, Discourse and Media Compulsory
Principles of Economic Crime Investigation Compulsory
Puritans to Postmodernists: American Literature Compulsory
Transitional Justice and Human Rights Compulsory
Wildlife Crime: Threats and Response Compulsory
Gender and Social Justice Compulsory
Managing Across Cultures Compulsory
Professional Experience Compulsory
Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,249.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,249.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,249.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,249.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 92,996.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringDigital Media & Online PublishingEarly Childhood & Primary EducationFilm & Television ProductionIT Support & Systems AdministrationLive Events & ConcertsProduct Management & UXPublic Broadcasting & Documentary

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

European commission

Preply

University of Portsmouth

Why Study International Development and Languages BA (Hons) with a year abroad at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth 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 International Development and Languages BA (Hons) with a year abroad at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Part-time students, however, cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To qualify, you need a TOEFL overall score of 91 with specific minimum scores in listening (19), reading (20), speaking (21), and writing (20). Alternatively, an IELTS overall score of 6.0 or a PTE overall score of 61 is acceptable.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles include government roles, teaching positions, and opportunities with non-government organizations (NGOs).

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on achieving fluency in languages like French or Spanish while addressing global issues such as poverty and environmental sustainability. You'll gain practical experience through placements with not-for-profit organizations.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course starts in September each year. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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