BA in Intelligence and International Security, Aberystywth University

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course explores the complex security challenges faced by international actors in an interconnected world. It covers issues like conflicts, terrorism, cyber threats, nuclear proliferation, pandemics, transnational crime, climate change, and more. You will analyze these challenges using ideas from strategic, intelligence, and security studies, focusing on understanding current and future security strategies. The curriculum includes studying how intelligence is gathered and assessed, the influence of secrecy and surveillance, and the ethical, legal, and moral implications of intelligence activities. The program emphasizes both historical context and contemporary issues, aiming to equip students with analytical skills to evaluate responses to global security threats.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students interested in understanding the strategic and intelligence aspects of global security. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical activities like crisis simulation games, role-plays, and participation in the Model UN and International Politics Societies. The course offers unique opportunities such as a Parliamentary Placement scheme at Westminster or the Senedd in Cardiff and options for semester abroad study in countries like Australia, Canada, and China. The courses are taught by research-active staff with extensive expertise, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education focused on current security issues.

Specialisation

The course is structured around modules that cover strategy, intelligence, and security within international politics. Students explore topics like NATO, Arab-Israeli wars, Russian intelligence, nuclear strategy, terrorism, and counter-terrorism. There are opportunities to study broader aspects of international relations, including regional politics in Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East, as well as themes such as international institutions, development, climate change, and political economy.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

19.18L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Entrance to the course typically requires a UCAS Tariff of 128-104 points, with A-levels in the range of ABB to BCC, or equivalent qualifications such as BTEC, IB, or European Baccalaureate. Specific English language requirements are also specified, and there are pre-sessional English programs available for students who do not meet the language criteria.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Aberystywth University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this course develop skills applicable in diverse sectors like development, politics, civil service, government research, NGOs, international organizations, and journalism. The program emphasizes employability, with opportunities for work placements, participation in student-led international politics journals, and engagement through student societies, which together prepare students for roles in international relations, security, and policy-making.

FAQs

What are the main topics covered in this course?

The course covers international security challenges, intelligence gathering and assessment, security strategy, and broader topics like international relations, regional politics, and global development.

Are there practical activities included in the program?

Yes, students participate in crisis simulation games, Model UN, and may undertake internships such as Parliamentary placements and semester abroad sessions.