BA (Hons) in Global Religions and International Relations with Placement Year, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course offers a unique perspective on the study of religion by including world, political, and social viewpoints. It is the first Religious Studies department in the UK to incorporate world religions and continues to innovate with new approaches to understanding religion. You'll explore how religion influences global issues like race, gender, and societal values, connecting it to contemporary international relations. The course combines insights from politics, philosophy, and religious studies to provide a holistic understanding of complex global problems. Through modules, internships, and research, you'll delve into topics like the influence of religion on global politics, religious identities in society, and current conflicts involving religious factors. The program aims to develop critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of how religion interacts with current international challenges, preparing students for careers in policy, diplomacy, or development.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly recommended because it combines specialist knowledge with practical experiences like internships, offering students a critical understanding of global religious influences on international relations. The department's pioneering status as the first in the UK to study world religions and its focus on contemporary global issues make it a forward-thinking course. Students have opportunities to participate in debates, attend conferences, and join projects like the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, equipping them with skills sought after in careers such as policy, diplomacy, or international NGOs. The interdisciplinary approach ensures students graduate with a broad, critical perspective and a set of transferable skills that make them stand out in the job market.

Specialisation

The course includes modules spanning religions from around the world, such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam. It also features focused modules on areas like China’s international relations, Middle Eastern politics, comparative politics of the Gulf, and Chinese philosophy. Students can explore themes like peace studies, feminist philosophy, war and conflict, and the politics of development and global security. The curriculum aims to provide a multidisciplinary view by integrating politics, philosophy, and religion, offering a comprehensive understanding of global religious influences and their intersections with international affairs.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need an A level of ABB or equivalent, with no specific GCSE requirements. English proficiency must be demonstrated with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 5.5 in each component. Additional qualifications such as BTEC, IB, and Scottish Highers are also accepted. The course is designed for full-time study over four years, including a placement year in the third year, which extends the degree duration.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this course can pursue careers in civil and diplomatic services, politics, government, international charities, NGOs, consultancy, media, journalism, education, and more. Many students also choose to continue with further studies, such as Master’s or PhD programs. The skills gained—like critical thinking, effective communication, and policy analysis—are highly valued by employers and prepare students for roles involving international policy, diplomacy, or development work.

FAQs

What kind of internship opportunities are available?

Students can pursue internships with the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, working on real-world policy projects in peace and conflict issues, which can also lead to further employment opportunities.

Can I study abroad as part of this course?

Yes, the program offers an option for a study abroad year, which will extend your degree to four years and include travel, accommodation, and visa considerations.