International Relations

Explore the global issues shaping our world. Discover how nations interact through politics, conflict, diplomacy, and cooperation to tackle global challenges.

Make sense of a changing world

Why do conflicts happen? Who holds power on the global stage? How do international organisations respond to today’s biggest challenges? Understand the forces shaping our future – and discover the role you could play in influencing it.

Explore the ideas, events, and power structures shaping global politics. On this course, you’ll develop the confidence to question assumptions, debate complex issues, and build your own informed perspective.

Choose a pathway to study*

• BA (Hons) International Relations (UCAS code: L250)

• BA (Hons) International Relations with Global Development (UCAS code: L258)

• BA (Hons) International Relations with Politics (UCAS code: L254)

• BA (Hons) International Relations with Human Rights (UCAS code: L253)

*You can apply for any of the listed pathways using the UCAS codes provided

As part of this course, you’ll:

• Investigate why some of the world’s biggest issues – including security, poverty, debt, and famine – persist, and examine how international cooperation seeks to address them

• Discover how diplomacy, negotiation, and international policy can influence peace, security, and global change

• Study global inequality, shifting power between nations, and the changing balance of influence around the world

• Explore how defining moments such as the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, globalisation, and emerging security threats continue to influence today’s international landscape

• Discuss contemporary issues, challenge different viewpoints, and build the confidence to defend your ideas

• Tailor your degree through optional modules, specialist pathways, and your own dissertation topic

BA (Hons) International Relations with Global Development

Explore how global development confronts the ethical dilemmas facing the distribution of power and resources. You'll examine theories of development, poverty and economic crises, and their relevance to the social and political challenges of the 21st century.

BA (Hons) International Relations with Politics

Critically explore politics as you examine some of the pressing issues facing us today, such as climate change, human rights, migration, and the crisis of capitalism.

BA (Hons) International Relations with Human Rights

Many political, economic, social, and cultural factors impact the successful protection and promotion of human rights around the world. Engage with debates about the universality of human rights and assess the success of human rights as a mechanism for social justice. You'll explore the work of human rights activists and the political strategies they employ to try to stop human rights violations.

International perspective

Develop a global outlook that goes beyond the headlines. Learn to see global events from multiple perspectives, understanding not just what’s happening, but why it matters and what could happen next. You'll explore how international organisations such as the World Bank (WB), World Trade Organisation (WTO), and United Nations (UN) influence global affairs, while examining both their successes and limitations.

Research expertise

Learn from academics whose research influences debates on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, international activism, and global development. Their expertise brings fresh perspectives and the latest global developments directly into your teaching.

Build your future potential

Complete a volunteering placement of your choice, gaining valuable experience while developing your understanding of citizenship and society, as well as the skills employers are looking for.

Course Modules

Year 1 Core Modules:

• Politics, Ethics & Justice

• International Actors & Institutions

• World Politics

• Introduction to Political Economy

• Understanding International Relations

Year 2 Core Modules:

• Active Citizenship

• Global Inequalities

• Environment & World Politics

• Understanding Security

In addition, choose from a list of Year 2 option modules. Please check our website for a full and up-to-date list.

Year 3 Core Modules:

• Dissertation in International Relations

• Governing Globalisation

• Rethinking Diplomacy

In addition, choose from a list of Year 3 option modules. Please check our website for a full and up-to-date list.

https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/courses/international-relations-ba//?modules=true