Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme develops high-level Welsh language competence while introducing students to literature, linguistics, media and cultural studies. Core themes typically include Welsh language structure and advanced grammar, medieval and modern Welsh literature, sociolinguistics and language planning, translation and interpreting practice, and the study of Welsh-language media and digital communication.

Study is usually organised across progressive levels. Early modules provide grounding in written and spoken Welsh, introduction to literary history and basic linguistics. Intermediate modules broaden into genre study, language variation and bilingual communication, and practical modules in translation, subtitling or broadcast Welsh. Final-year learning commonly includes optional specialised modules (for example creative writing, literary translation, language revitalisation, and media production) and an independent dissertation or major project in a chosen topic.

• Language and advanced grammar
• Medieval, nineteenth- and twentieth-century Welsh literature
• Sociolinguistics, bilingualism and language policy
• Translation, interpreting and professional Welsh communication
• Media, journalism and digital Welsh-language content
• Independent research project or dissertation

Learning and assessment

Teaching typically combines lectures and seminars with practical workshops, language labs and opportunities for work-based learning. Assessment uses a mix of essays, presentations, language tasks, translation exercises, media projects and an extended dissertation or major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants should be fluent or near-fluent Welsh speakers; the programme is delivered in Welsh and uses Welsh as the primary medium for teaching and assessment. Entry is normally based on successful secondary-school or equivalent qualifications. Accepted qualifications include national A-levels, BTEC, Scottish Highers, the Welsh Baccalaureate, Access to Higher Education certificates and recognised international equivalents.

Typical offers emphasise strong performance in relevant qualifications and may require evidence of Welsh language competence. Universities may ask for a written sample in Welsh, a short language assessment or an interview to confirm suitability. Mature students and those with non-standard educational backgrounds are considered on an individual basis; work experience and demonstrable commitment to Welsh-language practice can be relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates from a BA Welsh (First Language) pursue a wide range of careers where advanced Welsh skills and cultural knowledge are valued. Common pathways include:

• Teaching (often followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification such as a PGCE for those seeking school-based roles)
• Broadcasting, journalism and media production for Welsh-language outlets
• Translation and interpreting, including literary and public-service translation
• Public service and policy roles in local and national government or language planning organisations
• Cultural and arts administration, museums and heritage work
• Publishing, copywriting and digital content creation in Welsh
• Further academic study and research in linguistics, literature or Celtic studies

Students who combine language skills with placement experience, media training or translation practice often find particularly strong employment opportunities in bilingual roles across the public and private sectors.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University is located in a bilingual part of Wales and provides a supportive environment for Welsh-language study, with opportunities to immerse in Welsh cultural life both on and off campus. The programme benefits from academic staff active in Welsh literature, linguistics and media studies and from links with regional and national Welsh-language organisations.

Students can access language resources, specialised collections and practical training opportunities; the university fosters connections with broadcasters, cultural bodies and translation services that can lead to placements and work experience. Campus life includes Welsh-language societies and events, allowing students to practise language skills in real-world contexts and to engage with contemporary Welsh cultural debate.