This BA Welsh (Media, Public Relations) First Language is an undergraduate degree taught through Welsh for students who wish to work in bilingual media, communications and public relations. It combines practical media skills, PR strategy and Welsh-language scholarship and suits applicants with strong spoken and written Welsh who want careers in journalism, communications or cultural organisations.
This programme is delivered primarily through Welsh and blends practical vocational training with academic study of Welsh-language culture and communication. Core areas include media production, public relations theory and practice, journalism skills (print, broadcast and online), digital storytelling, media law and ethics, and research methods. You will study modules that develop Welsh writing and editing, translation and language refinement alongside modules in audience analysis, campaign planning, branding and crisis communications.
Teaching emphasises hands-on experience: typical components include newsroom exercises, radio and podcast production, video and multimedia projects, social media and analytics, and campaign briefs for real clients. The programme usually culminates in a substantial final-year dissertation or professional project in Welsh, allowing you to specialise in areas such as investigative journalism, corporate communications, community media or digital PR.
Students can expect a mix of lectures, seminars, practical workshops and assessed practical work. Opportunities for short placements or work-based learning with local and national Welsh media, cultural organisations and public bodies are embedded in the degree to develop employability and professional networks.
Applicants should be fluent Welsh speakers with evidence of ability to study through Welsh; the programme is intended for those whose first language is Welsh or who have an equivalent advanced competence. Entry is typically via standard undergraduate routes including A-levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications; international or alternative qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate are also accepted where competency in Welsh (or a recognised pathway to acquire it) is demonstrated.
Typical application materials include a personal statement outlining interest in Welsh media and communications, academic transcripts, and references. You may be asked to provide examples of written or broadcast work in Welsh or to attend an interview. GCSE-level English and Mathematics (or equivalents) are commonly expected and prior study in Welsh language or literature is an advantage.
Graduates enter a range of bilingual and Welsh-language roles across media, public, private and third sectors. Common career paths include journalism for print, broadcast and online outlets, public relations and communications officer roles, social media and digital content management, corporate communications, press office roles in government and public bodies, and positions with cultural organisations and charities.
The degree also provides suitable preparation for postgraduate study in media, journalism, communications, or Welsh studies, and for professions where strong written and oral Welsh skills are valued such as education, translation and policy work. Practical modules and placement experience are designed to give graduates an immediate advantage in entry-level roles that require both media skills and Welsh-language competency.
Swansea University offers Welsh-language programmes supported by staff with expertise in Welsh literature, media and communication studies. The department provides focused teaching in small-group settings and opportunities to work on bilingual media projects. Students benefit from links with regional and national Welsh media organisations and can access media production facilities and digital labs to build practical portfolios.
The university’s location in Wales gives good access to a vibrant cultural and media scene, including broadcasters, publishers and arts organisations. Support services for students include career guidance, placement support and language resources to help you develop professional Welsh-language skills while gaining hands-on experience in media and public relations.
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