BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics with a Year Abroad

This four-year degree program explores the dynamic intersection of how power operates within nations and across global systems. Politics examines how governments function and decisions are made, while International Relations investigates how nations interact and global institutions shape world affairs. Together, these disciplines provide a comprehensive understanding of our complex world, examining topics from climate change and economic crises to security threats. You will study with academics at the forefront of these fields, exploring political systems, the causes of conflict, and solutions. The course encourages critical thinking about how values like human rights influence politics, what motivates political participation, and how media shapes both domestic and foreign policy. Your learning goes beyond theory with opportunities for study trips, simulations, and internships with organizations like the UK Parliament or NGOs. The program includes a dedicated "Year Abroad" in your third year, where you can study at one of UEA's partner institutions worldwide, experiencing political systems in different cultural contexts and developing crucial cross-cultural competencies. This international experience is designed to enhance your confidence and communication skills, making your CV stand out to employers. If you decide not to undertake the year abroad for academic or other reasons, you can transfer to the three-year version of the degree. Graduates develop highly transferable skills in critical analysis, persuasive communication, and strategic thinking, preparing them for diverse careers.

Curriculum

The degree is structured over four years, including a year abroad. The curriculum begins with foundational concepts in both politics and international relations, progressing to more specialized topics and research methods. You will engage with compulsory modules and have the opportunity to select optional modules to tailor your studies to your interests. The teaching methodology emphasizes interactive learning through lectures and small group seminars, supported by independent learning tasks such as essay writing, presentations, and project work. Assessment methods are primarily individual, including essays, critical summaries, literature reviews, and reading logs.

1. Year 1
   • RIGHTS & WRONGS: AN INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL AND POLITICAL THEORY
   • UNDERSTANDING POLITICS TODAY: APPROACHES, ISSUES AND CASE STUDIES
   • POWER, (DIS)ORDER & SECURITY: UNDERSTANDING GLOBAL POLITICS 1
   • GLOBALISATION, GOVERNANCE AND JUSTICE: UNDERSTANDING GLOBAL POLITICS 2
   • WORLDBUILDING: INTERNATIONAL SYSTEMS THROUGHOUT HISTORY
   • INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL COMMUNICATION
   • EARLY MODERN PHILOSOPHY
   • THE POLITICS OF GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT
   • PHILOSOPHY OF SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
2. Year 2
   • ANALYSING INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: FROM REALISM TO POSTCOLONIALISM
   • INTRODUCTION TO DATA ANALYSIS FOR POLITICS AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
   • STATES, INSTITUTIONS AND CITIZENS
   • COOPERATION AND CRISIS: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION
   • GENDER AND POWER
   • WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT
   • DIGITAL MEDIA AND SOCIETY
   • POWER, WEALTH AND NATIONS: GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY
   • MEDIA, GLOBALISATION AND CULTURE
   • THE POWER PARADOX: AUTHORITY, FREEDOM, AND CONFLICT IN MODERN SOCIETY
   • ENVIRONMENTAL THINKING FOR SECOND YEARS
3. Year Abroad
4. Year 4

Careers

Graduates develop versatile skills highly sought after by employers across various sectors. The program's career service offers targeted events and networking opportunities with successful alumni to help you transition into professional life. These events provide valuable insider knowledge and industry connections.

• Political careers (e.g., working in Parliaments or for political parties)
• International organizations
• Charities and NGOs
• Think tanks and other research careers
• Civil Service
• Armed forces
• Diplomatic service
• International journalism
• Humanitarian work
• Political campaigning
• Global business
• Marketing
• Media
• Education

Frequently asked questions

What are the typical entry requirements for this programme?

The typical undergraduate offer for this programme is ABB. A contextual offer is BBC. You must also meet the English language requirements for the university.

How long does this BA (Hons) degree take to complete?

This is a four-year degree programme, which includes a dedicated 'Year Abroad' in your third year. If you choose not to undertake the year abroad, you can transfer to the three-year version of the degree.

What is the language of instruction for this programme?

The language of instruction for all modules in this programme is English. Further details on English language requirements can be found on the university's admissions pages.

How do I apply for this programme?

Prospective undergraduate students apply through UCAS. The UCAS course code for this programme is L29A. You should also check the university's admissions pages for specific deadlines.

Are there any scholarships available for international students?

Yes, the University of East Anglia offers several scholarships for international students, including the International UG Merit Scholarship, which provides £4,000 - £10,000 per year towards tuition fees.

What kind of careers can graduates pursue?

Graduates develop skills for careers in political roles, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, the Civil Service, diplomatic service, journalism, humanitarian work, and global business.