COURSE CURRICULUM

The International Relations and Development course at Sussex offers students a comprehensive understanding of global politics, development, and social justice. In the first year, students build a strong foundation with core modules covering the historical and contemporary contexts of international relations, colonialism, global challenges, development policies, and key thinkers. This grounding allows students to explore the rise of the modern international order, classical and current debates, and the short twentieth century, preparing them to analyse global issues critically. In the second year, students deepen their knowledge through modules on contemporary international theory, international political economy, critical development economics, and social justice, while developing essential research and academic communication skills. Options allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as security, health, environmental perspectives, and the politics of foreign policy. In the final year, students undertake the BA Dissertation and International Development Thesis while choosing advanced options that reflect current global challenges, including sustainable development, human rights, decolonial movements, political violence, global finance, and environmental justice. The program combines theoretical study with practical applications, field experiences, and research opportunities, equipping graduates with the analytical, research, and problem-solving skills needed for careers in international development, diplomacy, policy-making, humanitarian work, and other fields addressing global social, economic, and political issues.