COURSE CURRICULUM

The combined Sociology and International Relations course at Sussex provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of social structures, global politics, and contemporary challenges. In the first year, students build a solid foundation through core modules in 21st Century Sociology, Introduction to International Relations, the Rise of the Modern International Order, and thematic sociology courses, alongside historical and contemporary global perspectives. In the second year, the focus shifts to advanced study, including Contemporary International Theory, International Political Economy, and practical research skills with both quantitative and qualitative methods. Students also explore options such as sociology of generations, class and conflict, health, digital societies, migration, education, security, and the politics of neoliberalism, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests. The third year emphasises specialised options and independent research, including projects on capitalism, ecological crisis, coloniality, racism, digital activism, global development, religion, human rights, and conflict. Students complete a major sociology project and have opportunities to study topics such as identity, migration, humanitarianism, international politics, and social inequalities. Across the course, Sussex encourages students to analyse contemporary social and political issues critically, apply interdisciplinary approaches, and develop research, analytical, and practical skills to address real-world challenges, preparing them for careers in policy, research, international organisations, NGOs, and social advocacy.