International Relations BA

Course overview

International Relations explores how states interact and co-operate with each other. This degree offers you a historical understanding of the development of the ‘society of states’ and how it is changing today.

You’ll explore the political dynamics that influence interstate cooperation, as well as how organisations like the UN promote international peace and security. You’ll also gain expertise in data analysis, research and critical thinking, as you examine what obligations we may have to international society.

We offer a wide range of optional modules which allow you to develop your interests in specialist areas. You’ll gain a diverse skillset that will be valuable to you as a citizen, as well as in your future career – whatever path you choose to take.

Course highlights

• Study in our world ranked School of Politics and International Studies.
• Explore the latest real-world challenges across a range of political subjects and gain a global understanding of them.
• Learn from influential academics who are helping to shape policy and hear from inspiring guest speakers.
• Get the opportunity to study abroad and develop an international perspective or undertake a work placement to gain practical experience.
• Prepare for your future with careers and employability support.
• Add an analytical focus to your degree with the opportunity to apply for a Quantitative Research Methods pathway, helping you develop advanced analytical skills that are in high demand by employers worldwide.

Studying in the School of Politics and International Studies

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Course details

Year 1

In Year 1, you’ll be equipped with the research and academic skills needed to study international relations. You’ll understand how states have developed historically, and the divide between the Global North and South. You’ll also learn how our systems of international politics are currently changing, and how states’ political systems are different from one another.

Year 2

In Year 2, you’ll learn about international organisations and the role they play in world order. You’ll develop a critical understanding of rival theories in international relations and examine important debates in global security. Along the way you’ll improve your own research skills, while optional modules let you focus on a particular country or region’s political landscape.

Final Year

In your final year, most of your time will be dedicated to your dissertation. This independently researched project is on a topic of your choice, and allows you to demonstrate your interdisciplinary, critical and research skills. You’ll also take a choice of modules on topics such as terrorism, UK foreign policy and Europe’s relationship with the wider global community.

Quantitative Research Methods Pathway

At the end of Year 1, you'll have the opportunity to apply for our Quantitative Research Methods Pathway. This will help you develop advanced analytical skills, which are in high demand across the public, private and third sectors.

You will learn statistical analysis techniques and their application to real data (eg survey data, countries’ statistical data) using statistical software. You will also write a dissertation in which you will analyse quantitative data to examine questions about politics, development or international relations.

You are not required to have studied Mathematics at A level for this pathway. You will need to attain an overall grade of 2:1 in first year to qualify for the pathway.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Year 1 compulsory modules

The Politics of Global Challenges: Becoming an Independent Researcher (40 credits) - This module will introduce students to key themes and topics when studying politics and international studies. You’ll understand how you collaborate in an academic community, and gain key skills for academic work, research, and scholarly independence. You’ll also be introduced to the main themes and questions surrounding the politics of global challenges.

International Politics (20 credits) - You’ll start this module with a brief historical context, covering some of the key developments in world politics to date. You’ll be introduced to many of International Politics’ most important concepts including the international system, war, peace, sovereignty, collective security, inequality, and international organisations. You’ll also be introduced to regionalism in international affairs, and in particular to the international politics of Asia-Pacific.

Making of the Modern World (20 credits) - In this part of the course you’ll understand how our world became increasingly integrated and connected, approaching the concept from economic, political, military and social perspectives. You’ll examine the concept of modernity through major historical events, including the Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution and the French Revolution – while also challenging their dominant narratives. Later, you’ll learn how colonialism has impacted land, health and the climate catastrophe, how colonialism has been resisted, and colonialism’s more persistent features.

Comparative Politics (20 credits) -This module features two separate yet connected components. It compares the nature of politics and processes across different political systems, and it studies how and why we make these comparisons. Featuring both theory and real-life examples, it uses case studies to put its ideas into context.

Year 2 compulsory modules

Approaches to Analysis (20 credits) - You will learn here about the different ways we approach research, with a showcase of the latest research in POLIS. This helps introduce you to key ideas like designing and implementing a research project, along with key methods in politics, international development and international relations. You’ll gain practical experience of gathering evidence, while many of your other skills developed will transfer well to employment.

Theories of International Relations (20 credits) - This module explores rival approaches to International Relations Theory. You’ll analyse each theory, assessing their strengths and weaknesses and developing your critical thinking skills. You’ll also attend lectures and seminars which look at contemporary international developments. These let you put the theories you’ve learned about into practice, and let you consider how theory and practice relate to each other.

Global Security Challenges (20 credits) - This module introduces you to debates on security in international relations. You’ll look at the concept, role and making of security in today’s international system, and receive an outline of the theories and concepts used in security studies. You’ll also analyse important challenges framed as security threats, debate different ideas of security, whose security we can discuss and today’s security threats, including conflict, terrorism and climate change.

Year 2 optional modules

You will choose 60 credits of optional modules from a range of related topics, typically including:

Politics and Policy in the EU (20 credits) - This module gives you the chance to explore the truth behind various “Euromyths”, such as the concept of a superstate overriding the will of national governments. You’ll examine how the EU actually works, as well as the roles played by its various institutions.

Analysing Data in Politics, International Development and International Relations (20 credits) - The focus of this module is basic statistical analysis, which allows us to answer complex questions around human behaviour. Combining mathematics with a hands-on, applied approach, you’ll learn how to use and apply numerical data and explain the results of your analysis. The skills learned here will greatly expand your dissertation topics and approaches and are highly valued by employers as well.

United States Politics (20 credits) - You’ll explore the origins of American political culture and the constitution, how the President, legislature and Supreme Court are selected, and how they wield power. You’ll also consider the influence that political parties, interest groups and the media have on the divisiveness of US politics.

Politics of Contemporary China (20 credits) - If you’re looking for a thorough understanding of contemporary Chinese politics, this module is an essential choice. It discusses the structure of the state, the evolving role of the Chinese Communist Party and how Chinese society is affected by economic and political reforms. You’ll also explore political struggles and development strategies in regions such as Xinjiang, and critically engage with relevant literature and policy debates.

State and Politics in Africa (20 credits) - This module investigates the concept of the ‘African renaissance’, brought about by the continent’s positive GDP growth and increasing election frequency after the instability of the 1980s. You’ll consider if such a narrative is credible and learn more about the continent’s various social, political and developmental challenges.

The Political Economy of North-South Relations (20 credits) - This module explores the political-economic relationship between the industrialised Global North and the industrialised, developing Global South. You’ll learn about the key, drivers, characteristics and repercussions of the relationship, include points of conflict and whose interests it works in. You’ll also consider the roles played by organisations mediating the relations, as well as the structure of production, trade and regulation.

Year 3 compulsory modules

Dissertation (40 credits) - Your dissertation is a piece of written work that’s 10,000 words long. As its topic is your choice (following agreement by the School Dissertation Committee) it’s an opportunity to follow through a topic you’re interested in but haven’t had the chance to research. You can also use it to further explore second and third-level modules in greater detail.

Final Year optional modules

You will choose 60 credits of optional modules from a range of related topics, typically including:

British Foreign Policy (20 credits) - This module focuses primarily on British Foreign Policy after the Second World War. It begins with the theory of foreign policy analysis, with later weeks focussing on regions, relationships and events crucial to the policy. Examples include the Anglo-American relationship, former colonial nations like India and Australia, the Post-War Settlement in Europe and the Cold War.

Gender and Security in Global Politics (20 credits) - This module offers a feminist, decolonised and intersectional perspective on security, violence and war. You’ll come to understand the key concepts around gender, sex and race in international security, explore gender-based violence, and learn how the intersection of gender, sex and race shapes our response to violence and war.

American Foreign Policy (20 credits) - Your focus in this module is the different schools of thought around American foreign policy: specifically, the liberal, realist, neoconservative and critical traditions. You’ll be given the tools to interpret and assess the United States’ foreign policy following the Cold War, why the invasion of Iraq was considered a necessity by President Bush Jr., and the impact of the Iraq War on the United States’ perception of its role in the world.

Terrorism (20 credits) - You’ll use this module to receive a deeper understanding of terrorism. Subjects explored include why people engage in terrorism, the threat it poses, and how it can be countered and prevented. You’ll come to understand the terrorist life cycle, as well as cases, concepts and debates surrounding the idea.

Europe in the World (20 credits) - This module considers the role of the EU in world affairs, along with other important topics like war, peace, human rights and international relations. It looks closely at key players such as the UK, the US, Germany, France and NATO, providing you with a detailed analysis of Europe in a post-Cold War world.

Nuclear Weapons and Global Politics (20 credits) - This module explores the role of nuclear weapons in global politics. You’ll learn how nuclear weapons have influenced state power and conflict, the role of international institutions and transnational activism. Core concepts you’ll study include deterrence, disarmament, security and terrorism, as well as how nuclear weapons have more broadly shaped our politics and society.

Global Political Economy (20 credits) - In this module you’ll receive a thorough grounding in the global political economy, as well as the tools to critically analyse it. It focuses on both global and regional institutions including the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund and the European Union. You’ll be guided in each case by core political economy issues, as well as the everyday and lived experience of capitalism.

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods on this course, including lectures, seminars and workshops. You’ll study independently as well, which helps you develop your research and critical skills. This will prepare you for taught sessions where participation, presentation skills and group work are essential.

While encouraging you to become a self-motivated learner, we will guide you through your studies and help develop the skills you need to become an independent thinker. You’ll also be assigned a personal tutor, who you’ll meet with regularly. They’ll offer guidance and support, helping with your academic and personal development and making sure you get the most out of your time at university.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Modules will use a variety of assessment methods. This will include things such essays, projects based on case studies, policy briefs, group presentations, work logs, research briefs, project proposals or development agency reviews. In your final year you’ll also submit a 10,000-word dissertation.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

We do not require A-level Politics for courses in the School of Politics and International Studies.

In general we expect applicants to have two ‘traditional’ academic subjects at A-level.

See our accepted subjects document to see which subjects we accept.

When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be ABB at A-level including grade A in the EPQ.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer:

• BBB at A level. Applicants must also meet the University’s GCSE matriculation standard and pass the Access to Leeds module.

• For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, we offer a foundation year for UK students who meet specific widening participation criteria. Learn more about the BA Social Science (foundation year).

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information. lifelonglearning@leeds.ac.uk

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information contact the School of Politics and International Studies admissions team.

International foundation year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study a foundation year. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

If you are applying from an alternative foundation year provider, please contact our admissions team to find out if your qualification is suitable for entry to our courses.

Study Group International Year One in International Relations

Taught at the Leeds International Study Centre, this two-semester course is equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree. It aims to help you develop the skills you need to join the second year of the BA International Relations at the University of Leeds. Find out more about the international year one.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

Read our admissions guidance for common queries, information on how we will process your application, and advice on personal statements.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Politics and International Studies

Contact us

School of Politics and International Studies Admissions Team

Email: ugpolis@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.