BA in International Relations, Aberystywth University

36 Months

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About this course

This BA International Relations course allows students to explore world politics and understand how to shape its future. With high-quality teaching and around twenty modules to choose from in later years, you’ll learn about concepts, policies, and histories linked to international relations. The course encourages deep analysis of global events, examining dynamics behind headlines, from nationalism and the global economy to development, security, and regional issues like the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. It fosters not only academic skills but practical ones too, such as writing blogs, policy briefs, giving presentations, and collaborating through role-play simulations like Crisis Games. Graduates often enter careers in diplomacy, journalism, NGOs, international organizations like the UN, or pursue further studies in related fields.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is highly recommended because it offers a unique combination of high-quality teaching, a wide variety of modules, and practical skills development through simulations, debates, and real-world projects. Its long-standing reputation as the world’s first Department of International Politics means you'll learn from experienced, research-active staff. The diverse range of career pathways, including diplomacy, journalism, NGOs, and international organizations, makes it a versatile choice for students passionate about global issues and active in shaping international affairs.

Specialisation

Students can select from a wide range of modules, including regional studies like Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, as well as thematic topics such as security, development, climate change politics, and international history. The course also offers specific modules focused on concepts like nationalism, propaganda, intelligence, and international institutions, enabling students to tailor their focus according to their interests.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

19.18L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need a UCAS Tariff of 120-96, with A-Level requirements of BBB-CCC. GCSE requirements include a minimum grade C/4 in English or Welsh. Other accepted qualifications include BTEC National Diploma (DDM-MMM), International Baccalaureate (30-26), and European Baccalaureate (75%-65%). English language proficiency is also required, with pre-sessional English programmes available for those who need them. Specific country requirements and a comprehensive admissions policy are in place to consider diverse qualifications.

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 find opportunities across many sectors such as the development field, politics at local and national levels, civil service, government research, social research, NGOs, international organizations, and journalism. The program embeds employability skills like problem-solving, communication, IT proficiency, and teamwork, preparing students for adaptable and in-demand careers both during and after their studies. Opportunities for work placements, including a parliamentary internship and involvement in student publications, further enhance career readiness.

FAQs

What kind of practical experience can I gain during this course?

Students can participate in role-play simulations like Crisis Games, a parliamentary placement scheme working alongside MPs or AMs, and contribute to the department's student-run journal and activities. These opportunities develop negotiation, persuasion, teamwork, and research skills.

What modules will I study during the course?

First-year modules focus on foundational concepts, political theory, and the development of international relations. In the second and third years, students choose from a range of modules including global security, regional studies, history, and thematic issues like climate change and intelligence, culminating in a dissertation.