Program Overview
The International Relations (BA Hons) program offers a comprehensive exploration of global issues through a multidisciplinary lens. Students develop expert understanding of international relations, apply critical thinking skills, master advanced research techniques, and cultivate valuable transferable skills. The program culminates in a dissertation or special study project, preparing graduates for diverse and impactful careers in fields such as foreign service, NGOs, global business, journalism, and academia.
Program Outline
International Relations (BA Hons)
Degree Overview:
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of international relations through a multidisciplinary lens, drawing on insights from politics, history, media, sociology, law, economics, and religion.
Objectives:
- Develop expert understanding of global issues in their historical, political, and cultural context.
- Apply critical thinking skills to analyze contemporary international challenges.
- Master advanced research skills to conduct independent investigations and analyses.
- Cultivate communication proficiency through engaging in debates, discussions, and written assignments.
- Build valuable transferable skills including teamwork, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning.
Program Description:
Students delve into the fundamental concepts of international relations, studying the origins of power, the state and national identity, the interplay between power and influence, and multi-dimensional perspectives on security. Building upon this foundation, students are exposed to key theoretical frameworks like realism, liberalism, and critical approaches such as Marxism, dependency theory, and post-colonialism. The program then deepens understanding of global political issues including environmentalism, food security, poverty, migration, conflict intervention, terrorism, and transnational organized crime. Furthermore, a specific focus is placed on the complexities of foreign policy, encompassing both European and UK contexts. Students will analyze the theoretical underpinnings of these policies and delve into case studies to assess their implementation. The final year focuses on advanced studies in international relations, where students tackle intricate theoretical debates, hone practical skills to engage with real-world international challenges, and solidify their critical perspectives on complex global problems. This culminates in either a 10,000-word dissertation or a 5,000-word special study project under the guidance of an assigned tutor.
Other:
- International students can apply.
- Work placement opportunities are available.
- Study abroad opportunities can be pursued.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Foundational Concepts
- Theories of IR
- Global Institutions and Structures
- Regional Events and Developments
- Research and writing skill development
Year 2:
- Theories and Analysis of International Relations
- Global Issues in International Relations
- The Challenges and Structures of Foreign Policy
- EU Foreign Policy
- UK Foreign Policy
Year 3:
- Advanced Studies in International Relations
- Research Methods for Dissertation or Special Study Project
- Dissertation or Special Study Project
Assessment:
- Formal written exams (approx. 10%), focusing on key themes and concepts
- Range of individual and group coursework assignments (approx. 90%), including:
- Essays (various lengths depending on year level)
- Case study analyses
- Research project reports (Year 3)
- Presentations
- Participation in group discussions and debates
Teaching:
- Mix of lectures, seminars, and tutorials with small group sizes (typically 10 students in first year) for personalized attention.
- One-on-one meetings with tutors available each week.
- Expected individual study hours of 40 per week, including taught sessions and independent learning.
- Regular feedback provided on coursework assignments and exams, along with discussions to enhance understanding.
- Access to internationally published research expertise of teaching staff.
- Visiting lecturers and external speakers provide additional perspectives throughout the program.
Careers:
Graduates pursue diverse and impactful careers in various fields:
- Foreign Service - diplomats working to advance countries' interests and international organizations like the EU and UN.
- Armed Forces - contributing to national security and global peacekeeping efforts.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) - addressing humanitarian issues and driving sustainable development initiatives.
- Global Business - applying IR expertise to navigate international trade, investments, and partnerships.
- Journalism - reporting on crucial international events and sharing unique perspectives.
- Tuition fees for the 2024/25 academic year are £9,250 for full-time undergraduate courses.
- If you are a student from the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, your tuition fees will also be £9,250.
- The University reserves the right to increase Home and EU Undergraduate and PGCE tuition fees in line with any inflationary or other increase authorised by the Secretary of State for future years of study.
- International Tuition fees for 2024/25 are £12,500.
