International Relations and History with a Year in Industry

International Relations and History explores big questions of state formation, globalisation, human rights, security studies, or peace and conflict and asks how past events shape today’s world. You will learn about theories of International Relations and real-world case studies alike, such as wars and revolutions, decolonisation, or migration in the past and present. You will also cover history through subjects including women’s history and gender, memory of war and conflict, and race and racism.

Studying this degree course opens up a range of exciting career opportunities by helping you develop skills such as working with primary sources, applying concepts to real-world scenarios, and interpreting complex events, which are all highly valued by employers.

Based at our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, our International Relations and History course at Swansea University is highly regarded by students and employers:

Studying International Relations and History at Swansea you can:

• Select the final year British Parliamentary Studies module, where you will be taught by our specialist academic staff and Members of the Houses Parliament.

• Participate in workshops and seminars run by guest speakers.

• Publish your excellent papers in Populo – the student journal, or become part of the editorial team

International Relations at Swansea is ranked:

• Top 15 in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2026)

History at Swansea is ranked:

• 94% of History graduates are in employment and/or study, or doing other activities such as travelling 15 months after leaving Swansea University (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025)

You will be taught by expert academics across both disciplines. Our History team includes specialists in medieval, early modern and modern history across the UK, Europe and the wider world. Alongside this, you will learn from internationally connected scholars in international relations, global politics, intelligence and security studies, giving you a broad and engaging learning experience.

To enhance your student experience and strengthen your career prospects, you can take part in the Swansea University Work Placement Programmes, including the Swansea Paid Internship Programme and Santander Universities Funded Placements.

You can also link up with the Swansea Employability Academy (SEA). It provides a network connecting students with employers. You can attend talks and workshops as well as student led networking events.

Students on this course typically develop excellent oral and writing skills and you will also learn to develop your ideas in a wide range of formats, along with strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Our graduates are truly international and enter careers in a wide range of sectors including:
• Education
• Government and Politics
• Recruitment
• Media and Public Relations
• Heritage and Museums
• Business
• Business and Management
• Law and Public Services

This course offers you the opportunity to spend a Year In Industry, in the UK or overseas, giving valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for only paid placements which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.