Program Overview

Introduction to the Welsh (a Pathway for First Language Students) Program

The Welsh (a Pathway for First Language Students) program at Swansea University is designed for students who are fluent in Welsh and wish to study the language, literature, and culture of Wales in a first-language context. This innovative degree explores the language, literature, and culture of Wales while looking outward to global connections and multiculturalism.

Key Course Details

• Course Type: BA (Hons) in Welsh (a Pathway for First Language Students)
• Duration: 3 years full-time or 4 years full-time with a year in industry
• UCAS Code: Q561 for the 3-year program and Q562 for the 4-year program with a year in industry
• Mode of Study: Campus-based
• Typical Offer: ABB-BBC at A level or equivalent qualifications
• Location: Singleton Park Campus, Swansea

Course Overview

The program is designed around three key themes: Creativity, Employability, and Welsh in Society. It aims to provide a fresh and exciting approach to studying Welsh, examining what it means to speak, write, and live through the medium of Welsh in the twenty-first century. Students will gain a rich understanding of the role of Welsh in society today and develop practical skills in communication, translation, and bilingual working.

Modules

The course includes a variety of modules that cover different aspects of the Welsh language, literature, and culture. These modules are designed to deepen students' understanding of grammar, literature, and the cultural context of Welsh. Some of the modules include:

• Sgiliau Beirniadol (Critical Skills)
• Meistroli'r Iaith (Mastering the Language)
• Clasuron Cymru (Classics of Wales)
• Ieithoedd Lleiafrifol: Pwer a Pholisi (Minority Languages: Power and Policy)
• Byw Brwydr: Llenyddiaeth Wleidyddol (Living Battle: Political Literature)
• Cysylltiadau Cyhoeddus: Cyfathrebu Strategol (Public Relations: Strategic Communication)

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for the program is ABB-BBC at A level or equivalent qualifications. International students can refer to the university's undergraduate international entry requirements.

How You're Taught

At Swansea, students benefit from a high-quality, research-informed education that combines a range of effective and inclusive teaching methods. These include lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions, designed to encourage active participation, collaboration, and the development of both subject-specific and transferable skills.

Welsh Provision

The university offers a range of support for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. This includes access to generous Welsh-language study scholarships or bursaries, modules taught wholly or partly in Welsh, a Welsh-speaking Personal Tutor, and one-to-one support to improve academic skills through the medium of Welsh.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for the program vary depending on the start date and whether the student is from the UK or international. For the 2026 start, the fees are £9,535 for UK students and £18,700 for international students for the 3-year program.

Funding and Scholarships

Students may be eligible for funding to help support their study, including scholarships and bursaries. The university and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually.

Careers and Employability

The program is designed to prepare students for success in a bilingual and dynamic job market, with professional skills embedded throughout. Graduates can pursue careers in education, publishing, broadcasting, public services, and the creative industries, among others.

Academic Support

The university provides a range of academic support services, including the Centre for Academic Success, which offers courses, workshops, and one-to-one support in areas such as academic writing, maths and statistics, critical thinking, and digital skills.

Study Abroad and Global Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to spend a year in industry, either in the UK or overseas, gaining valuable workplace experience. The university also offers international summer programs and study abroad opportunities.

Year in Industry

The Year in Industry provides students with the opportunity to gain paid work experience, with the university advocating for placements that pay an average salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Information

For more information about the program, including how to apply, tuition fees, and funding opportunities, students can visit the university's website or contact the admissions team.