International Relations

Sometimes referred to as international studies, you do not have to look too far to find examples of how international relations impact our everyday lives. From international conventions on human rights; how environmental issues shape domestic legislation; or why the prospect of local military interventions can have an adverse impact on a global economy. The International Relations degree at Birmingham allows you to look at the role of states and organisations in an ever interconnected world.

On our four-year Year Abroad programmes, you will undertake a year abroad between your second and fourth years at a partner HE institution. This will give you the opportunity to experience a different academic environment and way of teaching (and even different approaches to the subject).

The year abroad will also enhance your employability prospects through a proven ability to succeed in a foreign setting, and will provide an additional opportunity to develop relevant, marketable skills in terms of organisation, communication, and intercultural awareness.

Why study this course?

If you want to take advantage of a unique work placement opportunity as part of your final year, our degree includes the opportunity to undertake a Professional Development module as part of your optional module choices.

Students on our International Relations degree are eligible to apply to be part of a delegation to the annual International Model NATO Conference, held in Washington DC in the Spring Term. This experience provides you with a unique opportunity to participate in a role-play exercise of decision-making at NATO, working with delegates from universities and institutions across the globe. Students selected for this Conference will be provided with bursaries that cover the cost of Conference registration, accommodation and subsistence.

Each year we work with the Guild UN Modelling Society to put on a Model UN event. This is open to all students in POLSIS and attracts students from all around the world. Learn more about our student experience activities.

Studying at the University of Birmingham will boost your employability prospects - we are ranked the 3rd most targeted university of top UK employers (High Fliers Research 2023).

You will be part of a large and vibrant international student community, with approx10,000 international students from approximately 150 different countries.