COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in Music and a Modern Language is a four-year program that combines advanced language study with practical and creative music training, preparing students for careers in international, cultural, and creative fields. In the first year, students build foundational skills in both music and their chosen modern language—French, Spanish, or Mandarin—through a combination of core language modules, cultural-historical studies, and practical musicianship classes. Year two develops intermediate to upper-intermediate language abilities alongside deeper exploration of global cultures, histories, and societies, while music modules offer analytical, compositional, performance, and musicology training. Students may also gain experience in the business of music and take part in mentoring or ambassador schemes to enhance leadership and intercultural skills. The third year is spent abroad, allowing students to study or work in a country where their chosen language is spoken, fostering independence, resilience, and professional experience, with options including study placements, teaching assistant roles, or work placements. In the final year, students return to Cardiff to advance their language, research, and critical-thinking skills through advanced language modules, cultural studies, and a dissertation, while continuing music study across composition, performance, analysis, and ethnomusicology. The program integrates interdisciplinary learning, intercultural competence, and practical experience, equipping graduates with creativity, communication, and professional skills valued in diverse global careers.