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Politics and International Relations at UEA
Find out more about studying Politics and International Relations at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBA (Hons) International Relations and Modern History
Key details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- LV2C
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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Other Start Dates
Course Overview
Why BA International Relations and Modern History at UEA?
Study how today’s global politics developed by combining historical insight with real-time analysis. Develop strong analytical and communication skills to explore global challenges and shape your future career.
Why choose UEA?
- Global perspective: Explore how history shapes today’s political and global challenges
- Learn from specialists: Study with experts whose research shapes how we understand the modern world
- Career skills: Develop strong skills for careers in diplomacy, journalism, heritage, or policy
What is BA International Relations and Modern History?
Understand how today's world was made, tracing the forces that have shaped global politics across centuries. Explore how nations formed, empires rose and fell, and international institutions emerged.
You'll analyse modern conflicts, diplomacy and cooperation alongside the deep historical currents that drive them. Experts from both disciplines will guide your thinking, bringing together historical depth and contemporary political insight.
By studying both fields, you’ll see how history and global politics illuminate each other. You’ll develop the perspective to interpret political events with historical depth and international awareness.
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Placement Year and Study Abroad
You may choose to study abroad for one semester (in the second semester of your second year) at one of UEA’s partner universities. Opportunities abroad enhance your academic experience, increase employability prospects, help you to build a network of contacts with other students – and are fun!
For further details, check out study abroad.(opens in a new window)
Careers
Career Pathways
With BA International Relations and Modern History, you could develop a career as a:
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Diplomat: Represent your country abroad, supporting negotiations and international policy development
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Museum Curator: Research, preserve and present historical collections for museums or cultural institutions
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Foreign Correspondent: Report on international politics, conflicts and global developments for media organisations
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Policy Analyst: Research political issues and provide evidence-based advice for governments or think tanks
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International Development Officer: Manage programmes addressing global challenges such as poverty, education and sustainability
Career Support
UEA’s Career Central(opens in a new window) is available to support you from day one of your studies and up to three years after graduation. You’ll receive personalised careers guidance through one‑to‑one appointments, employer events and tailored skills workshops. Advisors will help you explore political, historical and international career pathways and create competitive applications. You’ll also build professional connections through internships, visiting speakers and field trips used as networking opportunities. We’ll support you in linking your academic interests to meaningful professional opportunities.
After the Course
You’ll graduate with strong analytical, research and communication skills valued across political and historical sectors. You’ll be prepared for careers in diplomacy, heritage, journalism, NGOs and government. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in history, international relations, or policy. You’ll gain confidence and expertise to succeed in diverse global careers.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year introduces you to the foundations of international relations and modern history, helping you understand how global systems and political ideas developed. You’ll explore the evolution of nation‑states, empires and international institutions, alongside the major concepts shaping modern global politics. Through historical case studies and contemporary examples, you’ll examine how long‑term processes influence current events. Optional modules allow you to begin tailoring your degree by deepening your historical or political interests. By the end of the year, you’ll have a strong grounding in both historical interpretation and international political analysis.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
Your second year expands your analytical and research skills across both disciplines. You’ll study major theoretical approaches in international relations alongside historical debates about power, identity and political change. Research training supports you in developing methods used in both political and historical inquiry, including archival work, textual analysis and qualitative approaches. You’ll also specialise through optional modules focused on specific regions, conflicts, or historical periods that interest you. Many students choose to study abroad this year, gaining first‑hand experience of different political systems and historical cultures.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional G Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional H Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll deepen your expertise through advanced modules taught by historians and IR specialists whose research addresses major global and historical themes. You’ll examine contemporary political challenges—such as conflict, climate politics and global competition—while exploring the historical forces that shaped them. Supported by an academic supervisor, you’ll develop an independent research project that allows you to explore a topic you’re passionate about. Alongside your academic work, you’ll gain practical experience through internships, employability modules, or applied historical and political projects. By graduation, you’ll have both specialist knowledge and real‑world skills.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional G Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 60)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Teaching combines interactive lectures, small-group seminars and practical learning delivered by research-active historians and international relations specialists. Our historians bring enthusiasm for new discoveries and reinterpretation of the past into every session, alongside contemporary global analysis. You'll develop the historian's craft alongside the political scientist's analytical toolkit, supported by discussion-based teaching and close academic guidance. Office hours and designated academic support ensure you have regular access to your tutors throughout the degree.
In year one, structured teaching supports your transition to university study, introducing both historical source analysis and core concepts in international relations.
In year two, lectures and seminars develop your analytical independence across a wide range of historical and contemporary topics.
In year three, longer seminars, small-group work and close supervision support your independent research project.
Assessment
Assessment draws on both disciplines, helping you develop the skills of historical interpretation alongside political and international analysis. You'll complete essays, source commentaries, policy briefs, presentations and research projects across the degree. Formative tasks and regular feedback build your confidence and prepare you for summative work. Academic skills workshops and supervisor guidance support you throughout.
In year one, assessments introduce academic writing, source analysis and evidence-based argument, building confidence without counting toward your final degree.
In year two, you'll tackle a wider range of tasks including thematic essays, source commentaries, presentations and research methods assignments.
In year three, coursework, presentations and an extended essay culminate in an optional dissertation developed one-to-one with an expert supervisor.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
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(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Contextual: DD plus C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A level.
Contextual: D plus BC at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year Options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA (Hons) History (with a Foundation Year)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB or above.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
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.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window)
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English 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):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) 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:
- Deferred Entry
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.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
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(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see additional course fees for details of course-related costs.
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. (opens in a new window)
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: