BA (Hons) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND MODERN HISTORY
BA (HONS) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND MODERN HISTORY
International relations scholars ask questions about how the world works today. Historians look to the past to make sense of the present. When studied together, these complementary disciplines can give you the fullest understanding of global politics: past, present and future.
Our BA International Relations and Modern History is ranked 10th for History by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.
About
On this course, you’ll explore current global political events, connections and decisions. At the same time, you’ll establish a ‘long view’ of the events and processes that have given rise to these current situations. You’ll come to understand how things that happen in one place can have major consequences for people and communities living on the other side of the world. You’ll become familiar with the vast range of actors involved, from states and their governments to stateless organisations such as Greenpeace or Al Qaeda, to international bodies such as the European Union and United Nations, to corporations, social classes, diasporas, and even individuals.
Alongside all of this, you’ll examine how the contemporary international system of separate states has roots going back more than three hundred years. You’ll be equipped to make sense of today’s global order, and to debate, argue and think about how it has developed throughout recent history. You’ll have the opportunity to explore how these two disciplines relate to one another, allowing you to gain a fascinating perspective on the world around you today.
The two disciplines of International Relations and History are taught across two Schools at UEA, both of which are renowned for the quality of their teaching and research. In the Times Higher Education Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 Analysis, UEA was ranked 3rd overall in the UK for research quality in History, and 14th overall in the UK for its research quality in Politics and International Studies. During the course, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in study trips, internships and placements in Britain and Europe as well as having the option of a semester abroad in your second year.

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
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Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.Placement Year and Study Abroad
International Relations students can participate in outgoing study across the globe for one semester, in the second semester of your second year at one of UEA’s partner universities for one semester of your second year. Opportunities abroad enhance your academic experience, increase employability prospects, build a network of contacts with other students – and are fun! For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
After the Course
You’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills for a range of careers. These might include working for different political organisations such as international organisations, parliaments or political parties. You could work with charities, non-government organisations (NGOs), think-tanks, universities or other research organisations, or even with bodies like the civil or diplomatic service or armed forces. You could also go into business, marketing, media, and teaching. Alternatively, you could continue your studies with a postgraduate degree.
To help you make the transition from student to working life, our Careers Service organises a range of popular events, such as Working in Politics and Government, Working in Charities and NGOs, and Working in Westminster and Whitehall. Here you’ll have the chance to make valuable contacts and get advice and insights from successful UEA alumni.
Career destinations
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers you could enter include:
- Political careers, such as working in Parliaments or for political parties
- International organisations
- Charities and NGOs
- Think tanks and other research careers
- Civil service
- Armed forces

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
Assessment for Year 1
Our assessments are predominantly at the individual level, with some group assessment. These include essays and other written assessment including mini-essays and critical summaries of around 500 words, literature reviews or reading logs.
Assessment for Year 2
As you progress through your degree, you can choose from a wide range of modules with a range of assessment formats. The majority of our assessment is at the individual level and is written coursework. Students will also have the opportunity to take modules involving assessment by presentation, group projects, including group presentations, and a range of new types of writing including policy briefs, reports and select committee submissions.
Assessment for Year 3
You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation of 8-9000 words. You will select the topic, research question and methodology, under the guidance of an academic expert. There are also opportunities to partake in activist campaigns, write reflective essays, as well reports and select committee submissions.
The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree. Students of Politics, Philosophy, Language and Communication Studies are able to take one free non-credit module alongside your degree.
Assessment for Year 1
Our assessments are predominantly at the individual level, with some group assessment. These include essays and other written assessment including mini-essays and critical summaries of around 500 words, literature reviews or reading logs.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree.
Assessment for Year 2
As you progress through your degree, you can choose from a wide range of modules with a range of assessment formats. The majority of our assessment is at the individual level and is written coursework. Students will also have the opportunity to take modules involving assessment by presentation, group projects, including group presentations, and a range of new types of writing including policy briefs, reports and select committee submissions.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.The Course Director can support 40 credits off profile over the course of your degree.
Assessment for Year 3
You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation of 8-9000 words. You will select the topic, research question and methodology, under the guidance of an academic expert. There are also opportunities to partake in activist campaigns, write reflective essays, as well reports and select committee submissions.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Entry Requirements
A Levels
AAB including History or one of the following subjects: Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Geography If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.T Levels
Not acceptedBTEC
DDD alongside grade B at A-level in one of the following subjects: History, Ancient History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, English Literature, History of Art, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Film Studies, Media Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies. Excludes BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business AdministrationScottish highers
AAAAA including History or a related subjectScottish highers advanced
BBC including History or a related subjectIrish leaving certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including History or a related subjectAccess course
Access to Humanities & Social Sciences pathway. Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3European Baccalaureate
80% including 7 in History or a related subjectInternational Baccalaureate
33 including HL 5 in one of the following subjects: English, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Geography, Theatre, Visual Arts, FilmGCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.Additional entry requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
Students for whom english is a foreign language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
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IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees

We’re 14th for research quality!

We’re 3rd for research quality!

What's included in your fees
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