BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L290
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
UEA is ranked 14th overall for research quality Politics and International Studies
Course Overview
It’s almost impossible to separate a single country’s politics from the interconnected world of international relations. So many of the world’s big issues – from economic crises, to terrorism, to climate change, to transnational crime – are problems for domestic governments and for the international community alike. Studying International Relations and Politics, you’ll explore the close links between domestic and international politics. You’ll be encouraged to think about who has power in the world today, and how to understand, explain and critique national and international events and processes. You’ll have the chance to be taught by leading experts in the field. In the most recent Times Higher Education REF Analysis (2021), UEA was ranked 14th overall for research quality in Politics and International Studies. The University of East Anglia (UEA) is one of just twenty-three universities to have been awarded, by Parliament, the right to deliver the unique and highly regarded Parliamentary Studies Module from the academic year 2024/25. It is the second time UEA has been honoured in this way.
On your BA International Relations and Politics degree, you’ll engage with the key issues and debates in politics and international relations. Among others, these include: the political systems of powerful countries in different regions such as the United States, the EU, China and Japan in East Asia, or India; the causes and significance of different types of conflict; and the role of the media in shaping domestic politics and foreign policy.
But studying politics and international relations at university is not only about issues – it’s also about ideas. What role do norms or values such as human rights or gender equality play in domestic and global politics? Do our moral responsibilities extend beyond the borders of the country into which we happened to be born? Why should you vote – or fight, or protest, or campaign? And what should you vote, fight, protest or campaign for: freedom, equality, justice, and democracy?
This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and study skills to gain a sophisticated understanding of the interconnection between domestic and international politics. You’ll be taught by academic staff who are active in research and experts in their field.
During the course, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in study trips, internships and placements in the UK and Europe. You’ll also have the option of a semester abroad in your second year.
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.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your undergraduate degree in International Relations and Politics will begin with an overview of the key questions and debates within the discipline of international relations and politics. You’ll also explore different understandings of key issues within global politics, from war, conflict and security through to issues around emerging powers, global justice, poverty and migration.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)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
Throughout your degree, you’ll be taught in a range of environments from traditional lectures through to small-group seminars where you’ll debate your week’s work. Our teaching is focused, interactive, and up to date with events around the world. You’ll learn crucial skills such as how to summarise and analyse information, how to develop and criticise arguments, and how to speak in public. At the same time, you’ll learn about the world of global politics.
You’ll learn about the foundations of domestic and global politics, key concepts and topical debates, setting you up for your second year.
Independent Learning
You’ll prepare for your weekly teaching with a series of guided tasks, such as preparing answers to seminar questions, or completing small weekly writing tasks which will help you to develop key study skills. You will also complete longer assessments like essays, presentations and projects.
How you'll spend your time
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Teaching: 25%
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Independent Learning: 75%
Assessment
Our assessments are predominantly at the individual level, with some group assessment. These include essays and other written assessments including mini-essays and critical summaries of around 500 words, literature reviews or reading logs.
Structure
As you progress in your degree, you’ll be encouraged to specialise in your studies by taking modules that focus on more specific topics or regions of the world. This allows you to help shape your expertise around those things about which you’re most passionate.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)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
You’ll move beyond the foundations to explore different areas of domestic and global politics, both geographically and theoretically. You will have more opportunities to speak in front of your peers and tutors, developing key skills.
Independent Learning
You’ll write longer pieces and start to develop your own research skills and areas of interest. You’ll have the opportunity to take modules with a range of different assessments including writing policy briefs, reflective essays or literature reviews.
How you'll spend your time
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Teaching: 25%
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Independent Learning: 75%
Assessment
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.
Structure
You’ll become increasingly independent in your learning, with possibilities including writing a dissertation on a topic you’ve chosen. You’ll also have the chance to kick-start your career with an internship, work placement or work shadowing.
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 60)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
Your third year is about specialisation: focusing on the topics that you want to explore. If you choose to write a dissertation, you will select your own topic, question and methodology, guided by one of our experts. You will also have the opportunity to be able to develop other skills, such as writing policy briefings, research papers or submissions to select committees.
Independent Learning
By year 3, you will be able to develop, research and present your own ideas on international politics. This could include writing a dissertation on a topic of your choosing under the supervision of an academic expert.
How you'll spend your time
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Teaching: 20%
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Independent Learning: 80%
Assessment
You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation of 8-9,000 words. You will select the topic, research question and methodology, under the guidance of an academic expert.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB 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
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Any subject is acceptable.
- BTEC
- DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations
- Contextual Offer
A Level - BBC
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma - DMM
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.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
- Access to HE Diploma
- Access to Humanities & Social Sciences pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 32
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- 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):
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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 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:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. 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.
- 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.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Diploma: DD plus B at A-Level excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Extended Certificiate: D plus BB at A-Level excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
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 Politics with a Foundation Year or BA BA Intercultural Communication with Business Management with a Foundation Year
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, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
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: International Foundation in Business, Economics, Society and Culture or International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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.
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.
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:
Employability
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 agencies, 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, or 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.
Careers
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:
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Political careers, such as working in Parliaments or for political parties
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International organisations
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Charities and NGOs
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Think tanks and other research careers
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Civil Service
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Armed forces
Discover more on our Careers webpages.