International Relations and Development

Our International Relations degree will help you understand the complexities of relationships between different countries and how they engage with each other to effectively manage a wide range of problems on a global scale.
nternational Relations is a distinct academic discipline, but it is by its nature interdisciplinary. This means on this degree you will learn from a range of disciplines, such as politics, history, geography, economics, and law. On the International Relations BA with year abroad, you will develop the all-round skills needed for a modern working world: critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and creativity.

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). Your 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 BA International Relations degree includes the opportunity to undertake a Professional Development module as part of your optional module choices.
-All third-year 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.
-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).