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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 with a Year Abroad
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L25A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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14th
UEA is ranked 14th overall for research quality in Politics and International Studies
Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
Why International Relations at UEA?
Study how global power, diplomacy, and international systems shape world events through expert-led teaching and real-world insight. Develop analytical, communication, and practical skills to engage with international challenges and launch a global career. Spend your third year studying abroad.
Why choose UEA
- Learn from experts: Study with academics shaping research and debate in global politics
- Career ready: Study abroad in your third year, gaining valuable international experience
- Develop skills: Build analytical, cross-cultural, and practical skills for careers in diplomacy, journalism, NGOs, and beyond
What is BA International Relations with a Year Abroad?
Explore how power, diplomacy, and global systems shape the world we live in. You'll examine conflict, cooperation, and the institutions governing international affairs through multiple analytical perspectives.
You'll trace how diplomatic relationships form, shift, and fracture across regions and political systems, guided by academics actively shaping global debate. Real-world case studies and diplomatic simulations bring contemporary challenges into the classroom each week.
In year three, you’ll study abroad at one of our partner universities around the world. Experience a new culture, broaden your academic perspective, and develop valuable global skills.
You'll benefit from a uniquely applied approach, connecting theory to practice through internships, study abroad, and modules designed with your future career in mind. All while living in a top-rated, student-friendly city.
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Year Abroad
Spend your third year studying abroad at one of UEA’s partner universities across the world. Choose from destinations including Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, Europe, Latin America, Canada, and the USA. Studying abroad expands your global perspective and builds confidence, independence, and cross-cultural communication skills. It also adds valuable international experience to your CV, helping you stand out to employers.
Destinations vary each year, and you’ll need a 55% average across your first two years. If you choose not to go abroad, you can transfer to the three-year version of the degree.
Check out study abroad.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA International Relations with a Year Abroad degree, you could build a career as a:
- Diplomat: Represent your country abroad, negotiating agreements and contributing to international policy and diplomacy
- International Development Officer: Design and manage programmes that address poverty, education, and sustainable development worldwide
- Political Risk Analyst: Assess global political events and advise businesses on risks affecting international markets and investments
- Foreign Correspondent: Report on international events, conflicts, and global politics for news organisations
- Policy Analyst: Research global issues and help governments or international organisations develop effective policies
Career Support
Career Central is available to support you from day one, up to three years after graduation. You’ll receive personalised careers guidance through one‑to‑one appointments, employer events, and tailored professional development workshops. Our advisors will help you explore global career pathways and create strong, competitive applications. You’ll build professional connections through internships, visiting speakers, and field trips designed as networking opportunities. We’ll support you in linking your academic interests to real international career possibilities.
After the Course
You’ll graduate with strong analytical, communication, and problem‑solving skills valued across international sectors. You’ll be prepared to work in diplomacy, global governance, NGOs, business, or media. Many graduates progress into specialist postgraduate study or professional training in international fields. You’ll have the confidence and capabilities to succeed in diverse global careers.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your learning will be progressive. In the first year of your International Relations degree, you’ll build a solid foundation through core modules introducing you to the study of global politics. You'll discover the core theoretical approaches to the dynamics of global politics and look at different international systems across history. You’ll also learn key concepts including sovereignty, the balance of power, international law, security, and globalization. You'll also begin to integrate modules of your choice, such as political communication.
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
In your second year, you’ll develop analytical skills. You’ll cover the foundations of international relations theory and be introduced to the ways in which people interpret the world from various perspectives – liberalism, realism, constructivism, postcolonialism, gender studies, environmentalism, and so on. You’ll also acquire essential research methods skills, such as conducting interviews or running and analysing a survey. As you progress in your degree, you'll be encouraged to specialise in your studies by taking modules that focus on more specific topics, such as gender and power, global political economy, international security, or regions of the world, such as the United States or the Middle East. This allows you to help shape your expertise around topics about which you're most interested. You’ll also have the occasion to study abroad in the spring semester of this year.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, 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)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
On this course, you'll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our many partner institutions across the globe. This is a brilliant opportunity to experience living in another country, see how your subject and others are studied there, develop greater confidence and enhanced communication skills, and gain experiences that will help your CV stand out to employers.
Check out our Study Abroad(opens in a new window) pages to learn more.
Compulsory Modules
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 fourth year, you become an expert. You’ll take modules from leaders in their fields. These modules will range from topics on dystopias, weapons of war, climate politics, Asia Pacific and political activism. With the support of a supervisor, you'll have the chance to conduct your own research on a topic of your choosing. Importantly, you’ll also have the chance to kick-start your career with employability skills, an internship or work placement and specifically dedicated career events.
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)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 designed to develop your confidence and critical thinking. You’ll learn from research‑active academics who bring contemporary global issues into your classes. We support your learning through discussion‑based teaching, problem‑solving tasks, and opportunities to apply theory to real cases. Our approach ensures you build analytical and professional skills throughout your degree.
In year one, you'll be introduced to core concepts through structured teaching that supports your transition to university study. Seminars help you develop discussion skills and apply theories to real political issues.
In year two, your teaching develops your analytical independence through theory-led classes and research methods training. Workshops strengthen your ability to evaluate evidence and design academic projects.
While on your year abroad, you'll usually have to study at least 50% of your modules in your main area of academic specialism(s) at UEA, but you'll also have opportunities to explore other subjects if you wish (depending on exact topics and modules offered by your host university).
In year four, you’ll work more independently while receiving close supervision on your research project. Advanced modules use specialist teaching that connects academic research with contemporary global challenges.
Assessment
Assessment is varied to help you develop strong academic and professional skills. You’ll complete essays, policy briefs, case studies, and presentations across the degree. Assessments are designed to test your analytical ability, communication skills, and understanding of global issues. Support is available through feedback, academic skills workshops, and supervisor guidance.
In year one, assessments introduce you to academic writing and evidencebased argument. Tasks help you build confidence in presenting ideas clearly.
In year two, you’ll complete more analytical assessments, including research methods tasks and thematic essays. Assignments strengthen your ability to interpret data and evaluate complex global issues.
On your year abroad (year three), you'll undertake assessments in modules in your host university. You'll need to pass the year abroad, but your marks don’t count towards your final degree classification.
In year four, you’ll produce an independent research project with specialist guidance. Advanced modules include applied assessments that reflect real-world professional tasks.
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
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.
Contextual offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit.
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) International Relations and Politics (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.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include 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.
- 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, UEA International Study Centre 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.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offers 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.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include 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.
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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: