UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX · UNITED KINGDOM
International Relations BA (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS L250
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 11th in the UK for Social Sciences (THE World University Rankings by Subject 2026)Rankings
- =12th in the UK for Political Sciences (ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025)Rankings
- 12th in the UK for academic reputation in Politics (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026)Rankings
- Develop career-ready skills in communication, analysis, and cultural awareness.Skills Development
- Learn from one of the largest dedicated International Relations departments worldwide.Department Size
- Benefit from an interdisciplinary approach with elective choices from other subjects.Interdisciplinary Study
Explore the world's most pressing challenges, from power dynamics and conflict to climate change and global inequality, through the lens of International Relations. This interdisciplinary degree encourages you to question and analyze how humanity is organized at a global level, where power truly resides, and the historical and theoretical underpinnings of the international system. You'll examine the evolution of the discipline and apply key ideas to address contemporary issues. Sussex is renowned for its critical approaches and offers a broad range of expertise within one of the largest International Relations departments globally, allowing you to tailor your degree with electives from diverse fields.
Curriculum
This is a single-honours course designed for in-depth study of International Relations. The curriculum is structured over three years, with core modules providing a foundational understanding and options allowing for specialization. Teaching combines lectures, seminars, and one-to-one meetings, supported by digital resources and library access. Assessment typically includes essays, presentations, and creative assignments.
- Year 1
- Empires and Revolutions: The Birth of Today's International OrderN/A
- Introducing the Key Powers and Regions: A World Tour of Global PoliticsN/A
- Introduction to International RelationsN/A
- Talking with Ghosts: Classical Theory and Contemporary PoliticsN/A
- The Local and the Global: IR in PracticeN/A
- The Short Twentieth Century and BeyondN/A
- Year 2
- Beyond Bankers and Billionaires: Global Capitalism from BelowN/A
- Contemporary International TheoryN/A
- War in International PoliticsN/A
- Development and the StateN/A
- Security and Insecurity in Global PoliticsN/A
- The Politics of Foreign PolicyN/A
- The Rise and Fall of NeoliberalismN/A
Careers
This degree equips you with transferable skills valuable for a range of careers, particularly in international organisations, government, and the civil service. You will develop strong analytical, communication, and cultural awareness skills.
- International organisations
- Government
- Civil Service
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the International Relations BA (Hons)?
- For A-levels, you typically need ABB-BBB. If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate fluency, for example with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
- How long does the International Relations BA (Hons) program take?
- The International Relations BA (Hons) is a single-honours course designed for in-depth study and is structured over three years.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Information on tuition fees for international students is detailed on separate university pages. You may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
- This degree equips you with skills for careers in international organisations, government, and the civil service. You will develop strong analytical, communication, and cultural awareness skills.
- How can I apply for the International Relations BA (Hons) programme?
- You should check the academic and English language requirements, choose your start date, and submit your application through the university's admissions portal or relevant application system.
- What is the language of instruction for this programme?
- The programme is taught in English. If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through a recognized test.
Entry requirements
A-levelABB-BBB
IELTS6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each of the four components
If your first language is not English, you must demonstrate fluency. This can be done through proficiency tests like IELTS, other recognized English qualifications, exemptions, or a pre-sessional English course. Offers are often conditional on meeting the English language requirement. English language qualifications should ideally have been achieved within two years prior to the course start date.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available on the program page.
Tuition (home)Information not available on the program page.
LivingInformation not available on the program page.
Tuition fees, living costs, and funding options (loans, scholarships) are detailed on separate university pages. International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit. US citizens may be eligible for Federal Direct Loans.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the International Relations BA (Hons) program.
2. Choose Your Start DateSelect your preferred intake year (e.g., September 2026 or September 2027).
3. Submit ApplicationApply for undergraduate courses through the university's admissions portal or relevant application system.
4. Receive and Respond to OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer. Any conditions, such as meeting English language requirements, must be met.
Accreditation
Silver award for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the International Relations BA (Hons)?
+
For A-levels, you typically need ABB-BBB. If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate fluency, for example with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
How long does the International Relations BA (Hons) program take?
+
The International Relations BA (Hons) is a single-honours course designed for in-depth study and is structured over three years.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Information on tuition fees for international students is detailed on separate university pages. You may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
+
This degree equips you with skills for careers in international organisations, government, and the civil service. You will develop strong analytical, communication, and cultural awareness skills.
How can I apply for the International Relations BA (Hons) programme?
+
You should check the academic and English language requirements, choose your start date, and submit your application through the university's admissions portal or relevant application system.
What is the language of instruction for this programme?
+
The programme is taught in English. If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through a recognized test.