Welsh and Linguistics

On our Welsh and Linguistics (BA) programme, you’ll develop a thorough understanding of the Welsh language, its literature and culture, and engage with key questions across a broad range of linguistic topics. You’ll achieve a high level of skill in written and spoken Welsh, key skills in collaboration and critical thinking, and well-developed employability and creative skills relevant to modern Wales.

We welcome those who’ve studied Welsh either as a first or second language. If Welsh is a second language to you, you’ll be provided with specific modules in the first and second years to practise and enhance your communication and language skills. After this, first and second language students come together for the majority of second year, and all final year, modules. Module options allow you to explore topics such as historic and contemporary Welsh writing, language policy, and professional translation.

In linguistics, you’ll be provided with a rigorous grounding in the analysis of language (including key aspects of phonetics, morphology and syntax). You’ll also be able to select modules on varied topics, letting you follow your passions and interests, using the latest approaches to study with a critical eye and making connections to debates in the public sphere. 

Acquiring career-enhancing skills, you’ll have the opportunity to produce different types of texts and work with specialised software. You’ll gain skills from analysing real-world examples of language and learn how to construct arguments and communicate ideas to different audiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to undertake a work placement in a workplace where Welsh is used daily, to develop your confidence and professional skills. During your final year, you’ll undertake a dissertation, in which you’ll design and carry out a research project on a topic of your choice related to Welsh language, culture or literature.

Graduating with a range of academic, linguistic and practical skills – including teamworking, leadership and communication – the confidence to use them and the ability to see the big picture, you’ll be valued by employers and ideally placed to progress into a range of careers. The ability to use the Welsh language at a professional level is also extremely attractive to employers, which means that you have a unique opportunity to ensure an interesting and varied career where you can influence the linguistic, cultural, civic and economic future of Wales.

Distinctive Features of the Programme The world around you: Combine your knowledge of Welsh and linguistics, focusing on their application to the social world. Branching out: A wide variety of modules in both Welsh and linguistics allow you to explore your interests and discover new ones Focus on the future: Develop key employability skills which enhance your career prospects in a wide range of fields Welsh at work: Build your confidence and practical skills using Welsh in a professional setting on placement. Communicate effectively: Develop bilingual skills in shaping and presenting your ideas and arguments.