International Development and Languages (Hons) University of Portsmouth

Overview

Throughout this International Development and Languages (Hons) course from from University of Portsmouth , you'll study one language from beginner's level (French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese) or post-A level (French, Spanish). As of 2021, these three languages are spoken as first or second languages by 1,930 billion people worldwide. You'll also get the chance to learn a second language: French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, Japanese, German or British Sign Language (BSL). 

You'll get full support to build your language skills to fluency alongside opportunities to apply your learning to work with not-for-profit organisations in developing countries on placement. You'll graduate prepared for a career in organisations around the globe, in roles such as in government, teaching and working with non-government organisations (NGOs).

Career opportunities:

The British Council has stated that "an understanding of other cultures and languages will continue to be important for successful international relationships at all levels" (Languages for the Future, 2017). Along with the language skills you develop on this course, you'll graduate with a confidence in analysis, criticism and argument, communication and problem-solving – skills you can use in your future role advocating for and creating pathways to positive change.

You could also continue your studies at postgraduate level with a Master’s, or take the next step into research that could inform policy with a PhD. Discover the areas you could make a difference in by exploring the research taking place at Portsmouth around Global Governance and Languages and Applied Linguistics.

No matter what route you take, the skills and knowledge you develop on this course will prepare you for a rewarding role making a difference in the lives of others.

What can you do with an international development and languages degree?

This course gives you the skills for careers in areas such as:

• international community development

• civil service

• fundraising, campaigning and advocacy

• policy development

• social enterprise

• corporate social responsibility

• public affairs

• project management

What jobs can you do with an international development and languages degree?

Our graduates have gone on to roles such as:

• programme management, support and evaluation roles for international agencies and non-governmental organisations

• fundraising development coordinator

• human rights advocacy

• media and digital content lead

• social researcher

• community development practitioner

• sustainable sourcing specialist for multinational corporations

• teacher

Graduate destinations

Our graduates have worked for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government departments and companies such as:

• Save the Children

• Street Doctors

• CAFOD

• the Foreign and Commonwealth Office

• the Department or International Development

• Shelterbox

• British Chamber of Commerce

• Universal Music Group