BA Welsh and Music

Cardiff University offers a dynamic BA in Welsh and Music, designed to provide students with a rich understanding of Welsh language and culture while also fostering a deep appreciation for music theory, performance, and history. The program integrates both subjects to create a unique academic experience, allowing students to study the Welsh language in diverse contexts while exploring the fundamentals of music through practical and theoretical approaches. Students gain valuable insights into Welsh culture, heritage, and identity alongside developing their musical creativity and performance skills.

Curriculum: The BA Welsh and Music curriculum combines the study of Welsh language, literature, and culture with a comprehensive exploration of music. Students can expect to take courses in Welsh linguistics, literature, and history, while also delving into music theory, composition, and performance. The program is structured to allow flexibility, with options for students to focus on specific areas within Welsh culture and music, such as performance, analysis, and composition. Core modules emphasize the practical application of Welsh language in both written and spoken forms, while the music modules focus on critical listening, musical notation, and musical genres.

Research Focus: At Cardiff University, the Welsh and Music program is deeply intertwined with ongoing research in Welsh cultural studies and musicology. The faculty actively engages in research that explores the preservation and promotion of the Welsh language and culture, as well as music's role in society. This program offers opportunities for students to be involved in research projects, including areas such as the influence of music in Welsh identity, the relationship between language and music, and the study of traditional Welsh music. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research, developing critical thinking and analytical skills while contributing to the growing body of work in these fields.

Industry Engagement: Cardiff University fosters strong links with industry professionals through the BA Welsh and Music program. Students benefit from connections with local music organizations, Welsh cultural events, and performance opportunities. The university regularly hosts guest lectures, workshops, and masterclasses with musicians, composers, and cultural experts. These industry engagements provide students with valuable networking opportunities and insights into the professional world of music and Welsh culture. Moreover, internships and placements with music institutions and cultural organizations allow students to gain practical experience in real-world settings.

Global Perspective: Cardiff University embraces a global perspective in its BA Welsh and Music program, encouraging students to understand how Welsh culture and music fit into the wider global context. Through collaborations with international universities, participation in global research projects, and the university's commitment to cultural exchange, students are exposed to diverse musical traditions and languages. The program's focus on the Welsh language also highlights the importance of language preservation on a global scale, emphasizing the relevance of cultural identity in an interconnected world.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

International Foundation Programme Scholarships: For international students who need to complete a foundation year before beginning an undergraduate degree, Cardiff University offers scholarships to cover part of the foundation year tuition fees. This scholarship supports students in their transition to full-time degree programs at the university.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

Graduates of the BA Welsh and Music program from Cardiff University have a wide array of career opportunities available to them, thanks to the interdisciplinary nature of the course. Combining Welsh language proficiency with a strong foundation in music, students can pursue roles in education, the music industry, cultural heritage, and more. 

Music Educator or Teacher: With the combination of Welsh language skills and music knowledge, graduates can teach Welsh language and music at various educational levels, from schools to music academies.

Musician or Performer: For those interested in performance, the program equips students with the skills necessary to become professional musicians, performers, or composers. Opportunities exist in orchestras, bands, solo performances, and music festivals, especially within Wales and internationally.

Welsh Language Specialist: Graduates can work as Welsh language experts, serving as translators, language consultants, or in roles promoting Welsh language use in media, government, and cultural institutions.

Music Composer/Arranger: Students with a passion for composition can work as composers or arrangers, writing music for orchestras, films, TV, theater productions, or video games, particularly in Welsh and cultural contexts.

Cultural Heritage Professional: Graduates can contribute to preserving and promoting Welsh cultural heritage through roles in museums, cultural institutions, or heritage organizations, using both their Welsh language skills and music expertise.

Community and Outreach Worker: Many Welsh and music graduates choose to work in community outreach programs, where they can use music and language to engage with and support communities, especially those focused on preserving Welsh culture.

Arts Administrator/Manager: Graduates can pursue administrative roles in arts and music organizations, including concert halls, theaters, music festivals, and cultural events, overseeing the organization and management of musical performances and events.

Broadcasting and Media Professional: With skills in Welsh language and music, graduates may enter the broadcasting industry, working as radio presenters, producers, or content creators for Welsh-language media outlets, or in musical production for TV and film.

Music Therapist: The combination of musical knowledge and a focus on cultural identity allows graduates to work in therapeutic settings, using music as a tool for healing and support in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.