COURSE CURRICULUM

The International Relations programme with Applied Practice combines advanced academic study with practical professional experience to prepare graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, government agencies, research institutions and the wider international affairs sector. A distinctive feature of the course is the Applied Practice module, which provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience through an external internship, a significant university-based project or collaboration with active researchers in international relations. Students receive preparatory support, participate in an interview process and work under the guidance of both an industrial mentor and an academic supervisor to strengthen their professional and transferable skills. The academic curriculum begins with Diplomacy and Peacekeeping in Practice, where students examine international interventions, peacekeeping operations, conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction while analysing case studies such as Bosnia, Northern Ireland, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Drivers of Armed Conflict investigates the political, economic and social causes of conflict, including corruption, state failure and patronage systems, using examples from regions including the Middle East, Africa and the Balkans. The International Relations Dissertation develops advanced research skills and prepares students to conduct independent empirical, theoretical or practice-based research, particularly within fragile and conflict-affected environments while addressing ethical and methodological challenges. International Trade Law explores the legal and political foundations of international trade and examines the role of the World Trade Organisation in regulating global trade while balancing economic and social concerns. Social Research Methods develops understanding of research design, methodologies, data collection and ethical considerations in social science research. The Responsibility to Protect and Justice module examines international humanitarian law, genocide prevention, war crimes and human rights protection while critically evaluating international responses to humanitarian crises. Theorising International Relations provides a strong foundation in realism, liberalism, constructivism and critical social theories and applies them to issues such as security, trade, conflict, humanitarianism, environmental challenges and global health. Together, these modules equip students with advanced analytical, research and professional skills for successful international careers.