International Relations
Are you interested in learning how the big issues in international affairs shape our world? Our BA (Hons) International Relations degree equips you with analytical skills and real-world knowledge that prepare you for a career in international relations.
This course provides you with an analytical grounding in the discipline of international relations. You'll get the opportunity to apply this to real-world examples of the interactions that shape all of our lives.
You'll learn from internationally renowned experts with real-world experience in the international arena. This includes the fields of war, intelligence and security.
You can choose from a range of pathways that allow you to shape your international relations degree in the way that excites you the most. Choose from:
- British politics
- World history
- Asia Pacific studies
- Chinese
- French
- Japanese
- Korean
- Russian
- Spanish
This course cooperates with the Centre for Volunteering and Community Leadership. Delivering unique life-changing experiences to those who can combine their studies with volunteering.
Why study with us
- Our core team includes renowned experts in a variety of fields with real world experience in war, intelligence and security.
- You’ll gain real world skills through taking part in the model United Nations conference as part of your second year.
- You can shape your degree to your own passion through one of our different pathways
What you'll do
- The course is ideal for anyone who aspires to work in one of the fields of international relations, learning both the theories and skills required.
- You’ll consider traditional and non-traditional approaches to security, including intelligence analysis, international political economy and the climate crisis, structures of international organisations and much more.
- The pathways allow you to specialise in a particular area or skill that is relevant to international relations.
Pathways
This course is structured around a pathway model. You will study 120 credits of modules in each of your three years, 80 credits are solely focused on international relations. These modules are listed in the compulsory section for each year in the module overview section. The remaining 40 credits belong to your chosen pathway, which are listed in the optional section below.
Modules
The pathway you choose will determine the optional modules you study. Please see above for more information on pathways.
Compulsory modules
These modules are set and you have to study these as part of your course.
You will be introduced to theories and concepts pertinent to Non-traditional Security and you will identify and examine the roles of different non-traditional security perspectives in understanding International Relations and Security. You will gain in-depth awareness of areas of academic debate concerning the various aspects of non-traditional security and International Relations.
- Module code
- IR1500
In this module, you'll gain awareness of the role of language in how we define and deal with the problem of the climate crisis and develop and practice employability skills such as oral communication, group-working, critical thinking, social media critical thinking, and problem-solving, and organising an environmental campaign.
- Module code
- IR1501
This module aims to teach you about the fundamentals of political analysis, including concepts used in political argument. You will also learn about key ideas, debates, and thinkers of classical and modern political ideologies. This module will help you to develop your cognitive, communicative, and transferable skills.
- Module code
- PO1101
This module will introduce you to the exploration and examination of global politics. You will understand world politics and the key concepts, differences, debates and issues between states and countries across the world.
- Module code
- PO1109
Optional modules
You will choose a pathway from the selection below, each with compulsory modules. Depending on your chosen pathway you may be able to choose optional modules to make up your course.
- The Making of Britain c.1688 - 1921: You'll gain an understanding of the character and historical developments in Britain and Ireland, particularly between 1688 and 1921. You'll explore broad themes related to political, economic, social, and cultural change. You'll learn via relevant primary source material from this period.
- British Politics: This module will enable you to critically evaluate debates and perspectives of the framework, structure, processes and culture of British politics and the role, functions and relationships of key political figures and institutions in shifting national and international contexts.
- Module code
- HY1110 | PO1112
- Colony to Nation - America c.1700 - 1970: This module is a survey module, covering significant developments in domestic American history from the 18th century to the end of the 1960s. It aims to introduce you to the study of American history, lay the basis for other modules on American history, and initiate or enhance your skills for written assignments, debates, and discussions, and class presentations.
- State and Society - Europe c.1815 - 1914: This module will provide you with an introduction into modern European history during the ‘long’ nineteenth century. You’ll study primary themes of the period through the demographic, social, economic and political change. The module aims to introduce comparative approaches to modern European history.
- Module code
- HY1111 | HY1117
- The Shaping of the Asia Pacific: On this module you'll consider the evolution of the Asia Pacific as a region of growing international significance within a global and historical context. You'll get an overview of the diversity, differences, divisions and commonalities that make up the region.
- Nations and Empires in Asia: This module will develop your understanding of the history of different Asian states, such as China, India, Japan and Siam/Thailand. You'll look at their international relations with western imperial powers Britain, France, Russia/USSR and the USA from the mid-19th and to mid-20th centuries.
- Module code
- AI1000 | HY1108
- Chinese Language 1: On this module you'll be introduced to the main aspects of contemporary Chinese society and culture. This will provide a framework for the study of Chinese politics, economics and society.
- Module code
- CL1000
- Introduction to French Studies: On this module you'll build on your knowledge of independent language learning. You'll gain higher-level receptive and active language skills and consolidate your grammar skills.
- Module code
- FR1000
- Beginners Japanese: In this module you will be introduced to grammar, vocabulary, and basic communicative skills in Japanese. You will learn the skills and knowledge necessary for further language learning independently.
- Module code
- JS1106
- Beginners Korean: This module aims to enable you to read and write in the Korean alphabet and speak Korean confidently at a basic level.
- Module code
- KO1001
- Beginners Russian: This module enables you with no previous knowledge to use the Russian language confidently. You will learn a basic level of understanding, producing, and interacting in Russian. You will also gain an understanding of Russian culture.
- Module code
- RN1001
- Introduction to Spanish Studies: This module aims to ensure you have the foundations for higher-level language skills, the skills necessary for independent language learning and acquaints you with different aspects of contemporary Spanish history, culture and society.
or - Beginners Spanish: On this module you'll quickly gain appropriate written, oral and aural skills in Spanish. You will develop sound structural language foundations as the basis for further study of the language and develop the skills necessary for independent language learning.
- Module code
- SH1000 | SH1050
Compulsory modules
These modules are set and you have to study these as part of your course.
You will aim to understand the challenges of defining globalisation, looking at the origins of the globalisation process as well as the current and future issues and challenges raised.
- Module code
- IR2101
The module introduces you to the logic of the scientific method and its application in the field of International Relations (IR). It aims to enable you to set up and properly conduct empirical research, as well as to guide the choice of tools for collecting data about different types of research design.
- Module code
- IR2102
The module aims to introduce you to the workings of International Organisations (IOs) at a theoretical and practical level, providing them with a grounding in the study and explanation of the major institutions that contribute to the daily functioning of international relations.
- Module code
- IR2103
The modules seeks to address such questions as: What are the main drivers behind a country’s foreign policy? Who has the power to shape and influence a given government's foreign policy agenda? What is the role of civil society in foreign policy formulation? To what extent is a leader’s personality important in foreign policy formulation and implementation? What are the critical factors in a foreign policy decision-making process?
- Module code
- IR2104
Optional modules
You will choose a pathway from the selection below, each with compulsory modules. Depending on your chosen pathway you may be able to choose optional modules to make up your course.
- Radical Politics and Political Ideas in Modern Britain: In this module, you will learn about the progression of British politics from New Liberalism in the early 20th century to 'New' Labour in the early 21st century. You will be able to contextualise 'New' Labour within the 'progressive' tradition of British politics and learn about the drivers and influencers of progressive reform.
- The Special Relationship - Britain and the United States in the 20th Century: This module will allow you to analyse the development and functioning of the public and private faces of the British-American diplomatic and defence relationship in the twentieth century to include areas of tension and discord as well as of cordiality and cooperation.
- Module code
- PO2400 | HY2103
- Colonial Impacts Africa 1652 - 1910: The module aims to analyse the history of various colonial incursions in sub-Saharan Africa between 1652 – 1910 through case studies of British, French, German and Portuguese colonialism in this period. You will gain an awareness of the value and limitations of a selection of sources in investigating the development of imperial power in Africa.
- Europe in an Age of Extremes c.1914 - 2000: The aim of this module is for you to gain an understanding of how ethnic conflict has shaped contemporary European policy and structures. You'll consider the impact of aggression on minorities and reflect on the aftermath of atrocities, including reconciliation. You'll also be introduced to antisemitism, pseudo-scientific racism and Germany under the Third Reich.
- Module code
- HY2096 | HY2006
- Taiwan in the Asia Pacific: The module analyses the chronology and interpretations of Taiwan within the Asia Pacific. You will learn about Taiwan's history, values, and limitations through case studies, methodologies, and written assessments. This module will help prepare possible dissertation topics.
- Cold War in Asia 1945-1968: The module covers the Cold War era in Asian history (1945-1989), focusing on countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. You will explore their history, society, and politics, along with international relations involving the USSR and USA. You'll be able to apply historiographical explanations and analyse case studies.
- Module code
- AI2500 | HY2095
- Beginners Chinese Language and Society: This module will build on your Chinese language skills to expand your vocabulary in a conversation focused approach. You will mater complex grammatical structures of Chinese and be able to communicate in a range of interactive situations for a year abroad in China.
- Intermediate Chinese Literacy: On this module you'll develop your reading and writing skills and build on your vocabulary. You'll also enhance your written Chinese skills, gain an understanding complex grammatical structures, and build on your understanding of Chinese culture.
- Module code
- CL2004 | CL2201
- French Language and Society 1: In this module you'll build on skills in oral and written communication developed in the first-year. You'll study a wide and varied selection of audio and video recordings as well as media texts. You will take part in workshops such as role-play, debate, interpreting, and language analysis.
- French Language and Society 2: This module aims to build upon your language skills, enable you to achieve advanced competence in communicating in French in a range of complex situations, and provide you with the opportunity to further examine specialised areas of French society and enable you to carry out independent research and develop your analytical skills.
- Module code
- FR2001 | FR2203
- Beginners Japanese Language and Society 1: The module aims for you to develop competence in communicating in Japanese in a range of social situations and to build on your grammar and vocabulary.
- Beginners Japanese Language and Society 2: This module aims to further develop your Japanese in a range of social situations as well as to build solid foundations in grammar and vocabulary.
- Module code
- JS2001 | JS2002
- Beginners Korean Language and Society 1: On this module you'll improve your language skills in Korean, promoting competence in communication across defined contexts. You'll enhance your awareness of Korean culture and become an independent learner and proficient language user.
- Beginners Korean Language and Society 2: In this module you will gain confidence in communicating in Korean. You will develop analytical skills for understanding aspects of the Korean society and culture.
- Module code
- KO2001 | KO2003
- Beginners Russian Language and Society 1: This unit of learning aims to enable you to use knowledge gained at level one to develop more specialised language skills so you can use different styles and registers. It will enhance your interactive skills and independent learning ability.
- Beginners Russian Language and Society 2: This module aims to develop your knowledge of modern Russia, exploring recent history and culture in order to provide you with a framework for the country's current affairs, expand your linguistic ability using historic and political discourse, and prepare you for the experience of studying and working in a culture different from your own.
- Module code
- RN2001 | RN2002
- Spanish Language and Society 1: This module aims to build on your knowledge of the Spanish language and how to communicate in Spanish in range of complex situations. You will also gain knowledge in more specialised areas of Spanish society as well as developing your registers such as cultural, socio-political and socio-economic.
- Spanish Language and Society 2: This module lets you build on your language skills and you'll therefore achieve a high competence in communicating in Spanish. You'll also be able to examine specialised areas of Spanish society.
or - Beginners Spanish Language and Society: The module enables you to develop more specialised language skills to be able to use different styles and registers. The module enhances interactive skills and independent learning ability, as well as strengthening cultural understanding, attitudes, and Spanish ways of life.
- Beginners Spanish Language and Society 2: This module will develop your knowledge of modern Spain. You'll explore Spain's recent history to understand the country's current affairs and broaden your linguistic ability using historic and political discourse.
- Module code
- SH2001 | SH2002 | SH2050 | SH2054
Compulsory modules
These modules are set and you have to study these as part of your course.
Our module aims to provide you with a clear understanding of the relationship between politics and war. You will be introduced to the key theoretical debates underpinning contemporary International Relations discussions on war and examine ethical questions raised by war.
- Module code
- IR3001
This module will enable you to pursue in-depth and detail an academic interest developed during their International Relations programme of study. You will also be able to demonstrate their capacity to work independently and to identify and locate relevant material and resources. You'll level being able to provide an informed and critical analysis of the particular topic and question chosen.
- Module code
- IR3990
This module will introduce you to the theories and concepts related to state formation and you will examine the roles of different state-formation processes in the development of China, Europe and the United States of America. You will gain awareness of areas of academic debate regarding the nature of the state.
- Module code
- IR3000
Optional modules
You will choose a pathway from the selection below, each with compulsory modules. Depending on your chosen pathway you may be able to choose optional modules to make up your course.
- Continuity and Change in British Politics: This module aims to enable you to critically evaluate the nature, development and reforms of the British state and processes of government, and their implications for analysing shifting and fluid notions of the location, distribution and exercise of power in the British state.
- Contemporary Anglo-American Philosophy: You'll study key debates and thinkers in contemporary Anglo-American political philosophy. The module aims to appreciate the relevance of contemporary political issues. You'll develop the ability to engage in normative political reflection. You'll articulate ideas in reasoned debate with alternative views.
- Module code
- PO3134 | PO3112
- African Nationalism and Independence 1921-1982: This module explores the rise of nationalism in colonised territories in Africa in the 1900s. You'll look at case studies of decolonisation in British, French, and Portuguese territories. You will examine sources on the development of African nationalism and engage in historical debates on European decolonisation.
- The Presidency of JFK 1961-1963: In this module you will learn about the key domestic and foreign policy developments during the administration of John F. Kennedy 1961-63. You will develop a range of transferable skills such as the interpretation of primary documents and delivering presentations.
- Module code
- HY3059 | HY3063
- Asia Pacific International Relations: The module explores international relations in the Asia Pacific. It will draw on realism, liberalism, and constructivism to, consider the role of regional powers, including Japan, China, and both Koreas, as well as US influence. You will study the imposition of colonialism and responses to contemporary challenges.
- Cold War to New Asia-Pacific Order 1969 - 92: The module explores the history, politics, and international relations of Asia from 1969 to 1992, focusing on the end of the Cold War and the emergence of a new Asia-Pacific order. It enhances your ability to apply historiographical explanations to case studies in Asian history and international relations.
- Module code
- AI3001 | HY3065
- Chinese Language Studies: This module builds on your previous skills and knowledge. You'll develop your Chinese language and communication skills, and your awareness of Chinese socio-culture.
or - Chinese Language 3: On this module, you'll improve your Chinese reading skills for a wide range of words. You'll also develop mediation skills like translation and summarisation, while exploring modern Chinese culture and society through primary sources in Chinese.
and - Understanding Chinese Economy and Society: This module develops a comprehensive knowledge of what business is like in contemporary China. You will develop the skills to study and translate a wide array of theoretical works around a variety of themes and topics including correspondence, semi-legal documents and news reports.
- Module code
- CL3205 | CL3201 | CL3202
- French Language Studies: On this module you'll build your existing skills and knowledge and develop an advanced understanding of French. You'll also build on your self-management and linguistic skills, enhancing your learning.
or - French Language: This module aims to strengthen and advance language skills you gained in prior modules or equivalent experience. It focuses on enabling you to achieve a high level of proficiency in both spoken and written French, allowing you to communicate fully and fluently at the level of educated French speakers.
and - French Language in Context: The aim of this module is to give you advanced skills in communicating French, both spoken and written. You'll build on your skills in presentations and extended essay writing as well as in-depth analysis and research in French.
- Module code
- FR3061 | FR3001 | FR3002
- Japanese Language Studies: The aim of this module is to build on your period abroad experience. You will learn and further develop your language skills to communicate with confidence, fluency and accuracy.
or - Japanese Language 3: On this module you will put your knowledge of Japanese into practise from your learning experience at your host institution in Japan.
- Module code
- JS3050 | JS3051
- Korean Language Studies: This module enables you to communicate effectively in diverse situations with varying levels of formality and politeness, achieving a high proficiency in both spoken and written Korean, equivalent to educated speakers.
- or
- Korean Language 3: This module enhances and refines your language skills from previous academic years. You'll learn to communicate effectively in diverse situations with varying levels of formality and politeness.
and - Korean Language for Academic Purpose: In this module you will develop your formal style of speaking, reading and writing. You will be able to communicate at a high degree level of Korean
- Module code
- KO3002 | KO3001 | KO3003
- Russian Language Studies: In this module, you will develop your Russian language skills. You'll gain a high degree of spoken and written Russian to communicate fluently at the level of educated Russian speakers.
or - Russian Language 3: On this module you'll further develop your Russian language skills. You'll attain a high degree of proficiency in spoken and written Russian and be able to communicate fully and fluently.
and - Russian Literary Identities: This module introduces Russian literary-philosophical debates and themes from the 19th century to the present. You'll explore the interplay between Russian literature and society, developing an understanding of the relationship between literature, philosophy, and socio-political reality.
- Module code
- RN3001 | RN3000 | RN3002
- Spanish Language Studies: In this module, you will build upon skills and knowledge of the Spanish language. Your language competence will transform into an advanced degree of proficiency. You will also gain self-management and linguistic skills. The module aims to maintain and enhance language learning beyond the course.
or - Spanish Language: In this module you will develop your previously acquired language skills and reach a high degree of proficiency in spoken and written Spanish defined as the ability to communicate fully and fluently at the level of educated speakers of Spanish.
and - Key Themes in Contemporary Latin America: This module aims to provide you with a critical overview of Latin America from a variety of disciplinary perspectives: politico-historical, societal and environmental. It encourages you to explore the emerging key themes throughout the Latin American continent.
- Module code
- SH3002 | SH3001 | SH3006
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. As well as to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
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Book an Open DayIntroduction to BA (Hons) International Relations
What our students say
I appreciate and value the support I received from staff over my time at UCLan and the guidance I am still offered as I move forward on my academic journey.
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Academic expertise
You'll learn from a diverse and truly international team of academics. Our researchers and lecturers come from all over the globe. This includes the UK, United States, Greece, Brazil, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Japan, China, and others. Also, every member of our International Relations academic staff holds a PhD degree.
Ed joined UCLan in September 2014 as course leader for the rapidly expanding BA (Hons) Asia-Pacific Studies. After performing a number of different roles he was appointed Deputy Head Students & Teaching for the School.
Ikrom's research interests lie at the intersection of International Relations, Intelligence, Research & Analytical Methods, Security and Warfare. Ikrom teaches across a range of subjects for our International Relations and Security team. Ikrom supervises undergraduate, postgradua…
Dr. Moises de Souza serves as the Course Leader for the International Relations BA programme and teaches a module in Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA). He is also a lecturer in Asia Pacific Studies at the School of Psychology & Humanities and holds the position of Chair at the Northe…
Evan teaches across the politics and international relations programs, both at Masters and Undergraduate level. She has collaborated with various organizations to help embed research into practice and often guest lectures within the field of policing. She is an internationally re…
Alexandros teaches about international politics. His expertise is in international relations theory, war termination, war theory, and national-populism. In recognition of his innovative teaching style, Alexandros has received awards by students, by Aberystwyth University, and by …
Future careers
Studying our BA (Hons) International Relations course open the doors to a career in security, diplomacy, the civil service, politics, international business or journalism.
Throughout the course, you’ll be supported by our academic advisers and the University’s Careers Service to undertake further study towards finding a career or postgraduate study.
When you graduate from this course you’ll leave us with the skills and understanding for careers in security, diplomacy, civil service, politics, international business or journalism.
The transferable skills you will learn also make you a valuable asset to a variety of employers beyond the field of education. You could work in information technology, law, marketing, international charitable organisations, culture and diversity roles, youth work, as a prison officer or as a travel consultant advising on cultural diplomacy.
Fees and funding
As part of your course there may be additional costs to consider that are not included in your tuition fees. Most of these will be optional, but some courses have essential additional costs. Find out more about additional costs.
Scholarships and bursaries
We have a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and funds available to help support you whilst studying with us.
Select your country to see eligibility information and how to apply by selecting more info on the cards below.
Care Leaver Bursary
Our Care Leaver Bursary is for students who need extra support because they have been in care or are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Care Leaver BursaryEstranged student support
Estranged Student Support Bursary is for students who need extra support because they are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Estranged student supportDependants Bursary
Students with financially dependent children may be eligible for our Dependants Bursary as part of our financial support package.
Find out more about Dependants BursaryFinancial Bursary
If you are from a low income household our Financial Bursary may be able to help.
Find out more about Financial Bursary
Throughout the course, you’ll attend a mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions. Independent study is an important aspect of this degree. On occasion, you’ll be asked to work in small groups.
We’ll assess you through your coursework. This will include a varied mix of essays, individual and group presentations, critical reviews of research, reflective learning diaries, portfolios, simulations and designing small-scale research proposals.
We’ll also teach you a range of skills which will prove useful in your future career. You’ll learn how to deliver presentations, solve problems, collaborate in teams, critically assess policies and literature in the field of IR, and more.
Need more information about our course and career prospects in International Relations? Contact our Course Leader, Dr Moises Lopes De Souza by email.
This course is based in the School of Psychology and Humanities
For information on possible changes to course information, see our essential and important course information
You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at the University of Central Lancashire on our student contract page