COURSE CURRICULUM

This degree in International Relations and History is structured to offer a comprehensive academic and practical journey that gradually develops your understanding of global politics and historical events while sharpening the analytical and research skills essential for your future career. In the first year, you’ll begin by exploring foundational questions in global politics and world history. You’ll gain insight into the reasons behind the formation of nation-states, the recurrence of wars, and the evolution of international systems. Modules like “Power, (Dis)Order & Security” and “The Age of Extremes” help build a critical understanding of global issues, from ideological conflicts to social movements, while courses like “Worldbuilding” trace how power has shaped global systems historically. In your second year, the degree encourages deeper specialization. You will explore the development of international relations theories like realism, feminism, and postcolonialism and gain practical skills in research methods through a module in data analysis. You will learn to design and evaluate political research using both quantitative and qualitative tools, equipping you with the ability to understand, critique, and produce scholarly work. The third year offers a placement experience where you apply your academic learning in a real-world work environment. This opportunity not only provides professional exposure but also helps you identify career interests and develop workplace competencies. Whether in heritage, the public sector, business, or the creative industries, the placement is a key moment of personal and professional growth. In your final year, you become an independent researcher, either writing a dissertation on a topic you are passionate about or joining a group research project. You’ll engage deeply with ideas and produce original work under the guidance of academic mentors. This final stage also supports your transition to a career through internships, events, and employability-focused experiences. Overall, the degree aims to shape critical thinkers and adaptable professionals ready to make sense of and contribute to an ever-changing world.