快活视频

BA (Hons)

International Relations

UCAS CODES: 4 YEARS – L240
4 YEARS including summer semester(s) (Extended Degree) 鈥 RF16
Sport Ed Ex – SP16

The topic of International Relations is never far from the news headlines as the world grows more interconnected through trade and migration, the internet and social media.

Blend the fields of politics, economics, history and law with our BA in International Relations as you explore our ever-changing political landscape.

Top reasons to study this programme:

  • Learn within the flexible Liberal Arts framework. Choose your own path – find out more about the Liberal Arts
  • Acquire an analytical grasp of contemporary social, political and economic issues as well as conflicts at international and regional level
  • Broaden your perspective by understanding the main actors and institutions in the international system and their impact on society
  • Gain vital work experience with an international internship, enhancing your career opportunities, while building experience with writing in a range of professional formats from project evaluations, policy briefs and policy-maker profiles to NGO campaign analyses and project grant applications
  • Take part in field trips to the European Parliament, Council and Commission and NATO in Brussels and the International Court of Justice in the Hague
  • Learn from faculty academics leading research in specialist areas from Conflict and Peace Studies.

Key facts

  • FEES (Spring 2024)听UK – 拢9,250 / EU, INT & US – 拢14,900
  • FEES (Fall 2024) UK – 拢9,250 / EU, INT & US – 拢15,645
  • SCHOLARSHIPS Find out more >
  • START DATES September & January
  • LOCATION Chiswick Park Campus
  • DURATION 4 Years (Full-time) / 4 Years including summer semester(s) (Extended Degree) (Full-time)
  • ACCREDITATION Office for Students approved University with Taught Degree Awarding Powers / Middle States Commission on Higher Education (US)

Watch the programme video

We talk to Dr. Mike Keating and student Aleksander on the benefits of studying International Relations BA (Hons) at 快活视频, The American International University in London.

With such a varied range of topics, it鈥檚 no wonder our graduates go on to such diverse and successful careers. This degree will prepare you for a career in international organisations, business, finance, government institutions, agencies, and the media.

It will provide you with specific knowledge in three core areas: International Relations theory and concepts, global institutions, and contemporary issues in international affairs.

You鈥檒l be able to choose topics from a variety of electives including ‘Terrorism and Counter Terrorism’, ‘Peace and Justice’, Politics of Environmentalism’, ‘The American Presidency’, and ‘The European Union.’

Our programme is designed to offer you a specialisation as you progress with your degree, according to your main area of interest. You can also take courses which allow you to specialise in the International Relations of different regions, including the USA, Latin America, the EU, Asia, Russia, Africa and the Middle East.

We鈥檒l introduce you to the main concepts and approaches to the study of international relations and encourage you to analyse, interpret and evaluate world political events and issues.

It鈥檚 a broad remit as you鈥檒l investigate security, nationalism and warfare while also addressing politics within international law and institutions, the global economy, and issues related to development and developing states.

快活视频 is the only university in the UK where the degree programmes are based on the US educational approach which is a four year pathway. Every undergraduate degree student will study our Liberal Arts programme alongside their Major.

The entry requirements for all undergraduate programmes at 快活视频 are the same, regardless of your chosen Major.

Find out more about the Core Curriculum >>

YEAR 1

Courses

  • HST 3205 The Global Cold War

    This course introduces students to the major events and themes of the Cold War, demonstrating how it shaped the modern world system. In addition to providing students with a foundational understanding of the major themes and events of the Cold War, this course explores the interpretive controversies surrounding them. Students are encouraged to engage the changing historiography of the multifaceted, multi-polar Cold War from a variety of challenging perspectives, with particular emphasis given to its global context. Students will examine the period in the light of changing historiographical interpretations and with reference to its economic, cultural, ideological, military, political and social dimensions.

  • INR 3100 World Politics

    This course engages students with world politics with an emphasis on understanding the possibility of and mechanisms for international cooperation in the contemporary international system. We look at inter-state cooperation in the form of treaties, diplomacy, norms and institutions (such as the UN), as well as informal modes of cooperation. We then turn to non-state actors such as companies, charities, NGOs, social movements and individuals and address their impact on cooperation and conflict in world politics. Finally, the course looks at the rise of 鈥楪reat Powers鈥, reflecting on the costs and benefits of strategies of conflict or cooperation in response to changes in the hierarchies of world politics.

  • PLT 3101 Political Ideologies

    Introduces students to the study of politics by defining, exploring, and evaluating the basic concepts of politics through the analysis of modern and contemporary ideologies. It outlines some of the central issues in the study of politics such as the role of ideologies in politics, the nature of the political itself; power and authority in the state; political obligation; the rights and duties of the citizen; liberty and equality; economic systems and modes of production through the scope of central political ideologies such as liberalism, Marxism, socialism, anarchism, conservatism, feminism, populism, and environmentalism.

  • PLT 3102 Government, State, Politics

    This course examines the political experience, institutions, behavior and processes within major political systems that operate in today鈥檚 world. Within the course we analyses major concepts including power, legitimacy, society, and sovereignty and take into account approaches and methods of political science. As a result, we are able to produce comparative analyses of different states and governments and provide a critical understanding of political decision-making processes and the continuing transformation of the modern state.

  • GEP 3105 Tools for Change

    In this course, students will discuss and respond to social issues in the local area through group work, reflecting on how they can become both collaborative and independent learners. They will research the context of and plan for service learning in the local area. They will learn to use a range of digital platforms for individual and group project work, focussing strongly on effective communication, including oral presentation and written reports using a range of relevant primary and secondary sources.

  • GEP 3180 Research and Writing I

    This core course concentrates on developing the students鈥 ability to read and think critically, and to read, understand and analyse texts from a range of genres. How do you successfully negotiate a path through a sea of information and then write it up? Using essential information literacy skills to help with guided research, this course develops the ability to produce effective and appropriate academic writing across the curriculum. This is the first course in the 快活视频 academic research and writing sequence.

Plus one of the following:

  • GEP 3150 Visual Thinking

    This course provides an interdisciplinary grounding in the practice and theory of critical visual thinking. Through theoretical frameworks such as semiotics, it explores predominantly photographic images, from across a range of cultures and contexts: the arts, politics, science, sport and technology. Through visual analysis, it considers digital forms of observation and image making, as well as building understanding by visual practice. It examines questions concerning curating, circulating and making public the images we produce. It asks: What are the values and truths hidden in images? How can the practice of image production advance our thinking around images? How, in the context of a range of disciplines, can we learn to communicate ideas visually and verbally?

  • GEP 3170 Narratives of Change

    This course considers a landscape of global ideas through the lens of contemporary literature. Students will be introduced to pivotal moments of recent thought surrounding gender, race, environment and technology, exploring how literature both shapes and responds to our changing world. Students will analyse literary, political, and theoretical texts from a variety of cultures, exploring the relationship between written form, content and context particularly the ways in which social change might play out in literature. There will be the opportunity to produce both critical analysis in essay form and creative writing that responds to the texts studied.

YEAR 2

Courses

  • INR 4100 Introduction to International Relations

    This course is a broad introductory survey of international relations. It acquaints students with the fundamental concepts and theories used in the discipline that help us make sense of our political world, and are crucial for further analysis of the field. The course gives students a taste of the theoretical debates and practical dynamics of global politics. It further examines some of the major challenges that humanity faces in the 21st century. Students get a chance to learn about and take part in the major debates of the discipline, for example concerning actors in the international system, the sources of insecurity, the relevance of economics to international politics, the importance of fighting poverty and underdevelopment, questions about how best to address environmental challenges, whether the state is still important and if globalization is a phenomena of the 20th century.

  • INR 4101 Global Politics in the C21st

    This course addresses some of the most pressing contemporary challenges in global politics. It begins by examining major changes and trends in the actors, dynamics, motivations and interests that dominate international politics in the 21st century, and the unique impact of globalization and other contemporary global dynamics on these changes. Questions are asked about what the key issues in the contemporary study of International Relations should be in light of approaches to IR. In response, we consider the proliferation and impact of non-state actors, from global civil society, to terrorist organizations, to for-profit corporations, to Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs). We explore a range of global challenges, from transnational terrorism to migration, climate change and pandemics, disinformation and cyber-attacks and Weapons of Mass Destruction, and learn about the various responses of states and institutions, and their shortcomings.

  • PLT 4101 Modern Political Thought

    This course provides students with an introduction to modern political thought as it developed in the Western World. It examines concepts at the core of political life, including freedom, equality, power, difference, and the state. The origins of political ideologies are discovered and explored through the study of a range of modern political thinkers up to around 1900, such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Wollstonecraft, Marx, Mill, and Nietzsche.

  • PLT 4102 Rich World/Poor World

    Provides students with an introduction to development studies, seeking to explain both the existence of and persistence of a Poor World from a political, sociological, historical and economic perspective. The course addresses numerous issues as they affect the Poor World, and studies relations both within and between Poor World and Rich World. Topics include colonialism and post-colonialism, processes of industrialization, food security, inequality, ethnicity and nationalism, aid, democratization, and conflict, as well as an introduction to theories of development.

  • GEP 4180 Research and Writing II

    How do you train your critical research and writing skills to be effective in the academic and professional arenas? How do you design and structure an argument that is convincing? This core course focuses on the principles of good scholarship and academic practice that will be required throughout the students鈥 studies and in the workplace. These skills are developed throughout the course so that students may, with increasing confidence, produce well-researched writing that demonstrates critical engagement with a self-selected academic topic. This is the second course in the 快活视频 academic research and writing sequence.

  • GEP 4105 Social Change in Practice

    This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to analyse London-based social and environmental needs. Students will discuss key texts related to service learning and apply a range of planning and research techniques to deliver a community-based project related to a chosen social or environmental issue. Students will use local resources when available including registered not-for-profit and community-based organizations and reflect critically on their ability to create a positive contribution to society. Students will engage in community-based service learning, with guided academic tasks and reflection.

  • MTH 4120 Probability & Statistics I

    An introductory course in probability primarily designed for business economics and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), linear regression analysis and correlations, elementary hypothesis testing and Chi-square tests, non-parametric methods and SPSS lab sessions targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, economics and psychology and interpretations of hardcopies. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software.

YEAR 3

Courses

  • HST 5110 Nationalism And Conflict

    This course addresses nationalism and related conflicts in the 20th Century. Key events are covered, particularly the World Wars and the Cold War, while engaging with the ideological currents that influenced nationalist movements. Different historical interpretations of this material are addressed, while the concepts 鈥榥ation鈥 and 鈥榥ationalism鈥 are explored in detail. A range of C20th historical contexts are used to develop related themes such as imperialism, independence, revolutions, fascism, communism, democracy and dissent.

  • INR 5101 Conflict & Conflict Resolution

    This course provides overview of different theories and frameworks for understanding international and sub-national conflict, discussing the role of different forms of violence, identity, material factors, security concerns and basic human needs in the outbreak and reproduction of conflicts. The course then focuses on conflict resolution, including examination of different types of external interventions, military and non-military, and develops analytical criteria of success in peace building. Finally, the course considers the particular issues that arise in countries which have experienced and are experiencing civil wars. Case studies of civil and international conflicts, and of related conflict resolution strategies are used throughout.

  • INR 5102 Global Development Politics

    Examines the global politics of development and of developing states. The course will consider development theory, strategies and methods, and provide an overview of global development politics in practice though a range of case studies. Contemporary development debates are addressed, particularly issues of gender and development, and the impact of the changing global division of labour on developing states.

  • INR 5104 Globalization and Anti-Globalization

    This interdisciplinary course addresses the vitally important and complex phenomenon of contemporary globalization, and the ongoing backlash against it from both left (counter-globalization or alt-globalization) and right (anti-globalization). The concept of globalization and the history of this phenomenon are interrogated. Political, social, economic and cultural aspects of globalization are discussed, and core themes of globalization debates are addressed, such as convergence, nationalism, and inequality. A range of global actors, agents and institutions are critically engaged with.

  • PLT 5201 Research Methods: Social Sciences

    Introduces students to research methodology, key research methods, and research practices used in the social sciences with an emphasis on qualitative methods. Students will learn skills that translate directly into the workplace, including in NGOs, charities, the corporate sector, and intergovernmental and development agency contexts. This course also trains students for practically undertaking academic research such as that required to complete a dissertation. Students are prepared to carry out a range of methods (including textual analysis, interviews, surveys, focus groups, and ethnography) and learn principles of data collection and analysis from the positivist and post-positivist perspectives. Writing research proposals and pitching research are both taught and assessed, and students are introduced to widely used and newer modes of and approaches to research, including creative methods and participatory/reflexive approaches.

Plus one of the following:

  • AMS 5100 Politics and Elections in the USA

    Examines the nature of politics and elections in the United States of America. The course considers political processes and the implementation of policy. Constitutional mandates and constraints on the different branches of government are addressed, along with the impact of these on policy making processes. Elections and the processes that guide electoral politics in the USA are given special attention. The course then examines and explores post-war policy practices, considering both internal and external influences on political processes, including elections, in the USA.

  • COM 5215 Political Communications

    The course focuses on the role of political communications in the political process. It examines the relationship between governments, the media and the public in Western democracies, with emphasis on the UK and the US political systems. Starting with an overview of the role of the media in political theory, it moves to the examination of the origins and development of political marketing and public relations, the use of political advertising by political parties, and the representation of non-governmental actors in the media coverage. Furthermore, the course considers issues of national security and secrecy as well as changes in political communications brought about by the introduction of new technologies. Particular attention is given to the use of techniques and strategies during election campaigns. Prerequisite: At least one 4000-level COM, PLT or INR course

  • CRM 5400 Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism

    In the wake of 9-11 Islamist attack and the 22 July 2011 Norway 鈥榣one wolf鈥 radical right massacre, terrorism and counterterrorism have come to dominate political agendas and media discourse across the US and Europe. Through a comparative analysis of the history of US and EU responses to 21st century terrorism this class studies the nature of the threats to Western security by examining types of terrorism and the development, strategies and theories surrounding terrorism. Given special attention in this class are: victims and perpetrators; processes of violent radicalisation; typologies of terror (religious extremism, political violence, regional separatism, state-sponsored terror and animal rights/ecological activism); and what can be done to counter and/or limit terrorism (surveillance/policing/de-radicalisation/education/social media); as well as how effective such practices are.

  • HST 5101 Russian History and Politics

    This course focuses on the political evolution of the world鈥檚 first Communist state - its birth, development, collapse and recent transformation. The course will introduce students to the major developments in Russian history and politics from the revolution of 1905 to the First and Second World Wars, to the Cold War, the rise and fall of the Soviet Union and to its successor.

  • HST 5105 Rise of the Right: A History of Fascisms

    This course is intended to be a comparative study of various forms of fascisms from the end of the nineteenth century through to the modern period. It explores the fundamental interpretative questions concerning the nature of fascism, namely: whether there is such a thing as 鈥榞eneric鈥 fascism; the characteristics of fascist regimes; and how useful the term fascism is for historical analysis. This is followed by a study of the historical origins of fascism as well as an examination of late nineteenth/early twentieth century proto-fascist movements. The focus then moves to the individual fascist movements themselves, including Italy (where the fascist prototype evolved), Germany (where it was taken to its extreme), and Spain (where a variant persisted until 1975). Where appropriate other fascist movements and regimes will also be discussed, both western and non western. The course concludes with a discussion about the 鈥榬eturn鈥 of fascism, examining Neo-Nazi violence, immigration, 鈥榚thnic cleansing鈥 and the return of fascism under 鈥榦ther names鈥. The course is intended to be interactive with guest speakers, class visits, films, and regular seminar sessions.

  • INR 5103 Global Energy Politics

    Examines some of the contemporary geo-political, economic, technical, governance and environmental issue surrounding global energy issues. We look at supply and demand tensions, transit and pipeline issues, infrastructure problems, private companies and state monopolies, deregulation and markets, innovation policy, energy and development, international cooperation, environmental stress, energy poverty, and energy futures, as well as the impact of energy on the livelihoods of the urban and rural poor.

  • INR 5105 International Human Rights

    This course will cover the evolution of international human rights and of the various regional and international treaties and institutions designed for their protection. It will interrogate the fundamental tension between state sovereignty and individual rights and explore examples and case studies from around the world for the causes for human rights violations and the responses to them. It will further examine the meaning of human rights in various western and non-western political and cultural contexts and examine their impact on people living in these contexts. Students will have an opportunity to critically evaluate a number of specific human rights and explore the motivations and barriers for their protection, and the role of a range of actors who promote or push back against the idea of international human rights.

  • PLT 5101 Capitalism and its Critics

    This course examines the historical development of thought about capitalism. Liberal, mercantilist and radical political economy in the 18th and 19th centuries is covered, along with a range of 20th Century scholars, such as Adam Smith, Karl Marx, J.M. Keynes and Joseph Schumpeter. The object of study in the course is theories of capitalism, and addressed themes include the nature of market society, the relationship between state and market, economic growth and economic crises, market failure and government failure. These themes enable the course to engage with the relations between capitalism and other systems such as democracy, fascism, communism, racism, anti-Semitism, slavery and patriarchy.

  • PLT 5102 Democracy and its Enemies

    This course analyses the rise of democracy as an idea and as a practice using both theoretical and historical approaches, and processes of democratization in both theoretical and empirical terms. The course aims to provide an introduction to the central models of democracy (namely classical democracy, republicanism, liberal democracy, deliberative democracy and cosmopolitan democracy). Students are then enabled to analyse problems associated with the practice of liberal democracy, namely political engagement, the advent of post-democracy and the rise of populism. Finally, the course examines the practices of democracy and experiences with democratization in Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

  • PLT 5103 Politics of Environmentalism

    Examines the political, economic, ideological, and social dilemmas associated with environmental issues. The first section of the course addresses the historical roots of environmentalism, its key concepts, and a range of key thinkers and paradigms for understanding environmentalism as an ideology. The second section of the course explores the role of key actors engaged in environmental policy making, and important issues in contemporary environmental politics. Topics addressed include environmental movements and parties, global environmental regimes, the impact of the media on environmental issues, and prospects for green technologies and employment.

  • PLT 5105 British Politics: Inside Parliament

Plus one of the following:

  • GEP 5101 Service Learning: Digital Collaboration

    This Digital Collaboration Service-Learning course is a student community engagement course that aims to provide students from all disciplines and majors with the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to build professional links and function well in culturally diverse communities both locally and globally, in a digital capacity. In addition to the hours of field work (typically 30 hours*), the student will also produce a critical reflective progress report of their experience (a learning log), a 鈥榗ommunity action鈥 portfolio (analytical essay), and a final oral presentation, based on their own creative project. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the application of their specialist knowledge, the skills they are learning, and the benefits gained from the service-learning experience. During this service-learning course, the faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the community engagement is a successful one.This course enables students engage with organizations and communities outside of the university. Over two semesters, students will devise, plan and construct their own digital project for Charities, NGO鈥檚 and non-profit organisations via digital engagement and media networks. This course expands theories from digital global service learning, across different employment sectors, and aspects of society. It equips students to identify the ranges of opportunities for innovation and employment that digital skills offer, using digital resource and community building for physical and mental health. The course examines decolonial theories of global digital community. It is highly recommended that students have access to the use of a laptop and a smartphone for the duration of the course.

  • GEP 5102 Service Learning: Leadership in a Changing World

    This is a Service Learning course that focuses on emerging forms of leadership. It aims to introduce students from all majors to the professional, intellectual and personal skills to enable them to understand different approaches to leadership and function well in culturally diverse communities globally. In addition to the hours of field work (typically 30 hours* depending on the organisation), the student will also produce a critical reflective progress report of their experience (a project log), and a portfolio of their work (potentially as an analytical essay, or a video or a Report or an oral presentation). These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the application of their specialist knowledge, the leadership skills they are learning, and the benefits gained from the critical experiential service-learning. It will also help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them.This course enables students to engage with organizations and communities outside of the university. During the semester, students will consider topics such as negotiation and behavioral influence. They will devise, plan and carry out their own engagement project for Charities, NGO鈥檚 and non-profit organisations. This course combines design thinking and behavioural design theories with global service learning theory, across different employment sectors and aspects of society. It equips students to identify opportunities for influence, leadership and employment both in and adjacent to their field. The course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

  • GEP 5103 Service Learning: Environment and Society

    This Environmental Service Learning course is a student community engagement course that aims to provide students from all disciplines and majors with the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to build professional links and function well in culturally diverse communities globally and within an Environmental perspective. In addition to the hours of field work (typically 30 hours* depending on the organisation), the student will also produce a critical reflective progress report of their experience (a learning log), a 鈥榗ommunity action鈥 portfolio (analytical essay), and a final oral presentation. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the application of their specialist knowledge, the skills they are learning, and the benefits gained from the service-learning experience. It will also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During this service-learning course, the faculty supervisor will work closely with each student to ensure that the community engagement is a successful one.

  • GEP 5104 Service Learning: Global Citizenship and Migration

    This course examines the theoretical, political and sociological conceptions of citizenship and their limitations. It looks at both the theoretical constructs and the concrete policies that have shaped the experience of the citizen and of the migrant. The course therefore considers the development of the nation state and the establishment of legal and social citizenship. It also examines the border as a mechanism of control and security. The course further addresses the intersection of experiences of citizenship across economic, racial and gender differences in the context of international governance as well as the globalization of economies and environmental issues. This is a Service-Learning student community engagement course that aims to provide students with the analytical and inter-personal skills to support key non-governmental and policy-making actors around the broad theme of citizenship and migration as well as to build an understanding of the needs and challenges faced by key stakeholders and local communities globally. Through consultation with key stakeholders, students will produce analytical written assessments on key questions around the theme of global citizenship and migration, they will also produce a range of work introducing them to a range of key employability skills in a range of key sectors related to citizenship, these might include: the local and global charity sector, local and national policy-making, as well as regional or international organisations. Students will be required to maintain a progress report that tracks learning and can act as a reference point for problem solving in the future.

YEAR 4

Courses

  • INR 6101 International Relations Theory

    The theories of international relations (IR) are best introduced through a study of the classic texts and debates in the discipline. This course examines most of the theories and approaches to international politics, as well as their historic foundations. It begins with some philosophical debates regarding the purpose of theorising, the importance of understanding ontological and epistemological assumptions and the difference between 鈥榰nderstanding鈥 and 鈥榚xplaining鈥 in international relations theory. The course then critically evaluates the grand and middle range theories of IR, followed by a multitude of multidisciplinary approaches to conceptualising global politics and the post-positivist critiques. The course provides students with a set of conceptual and analytical tools in order to acquire a deeper and more nuanced understanding of international relations and global politics.

  • INR 6103 Diplomatic Studies

    This course offers an overview of the history and practice of contemporary diplomacy. It begins with analysis of what a modern diplomat currently does, both at home and abroad, set within the context of diplomatic history and theory. The normal practice of diplomacy and the various techniques of international negotiation will be addressed by using both historical and contemporary examples. It will familiarize students with the activities of a modern diplomat within a wider historical and theoretical context.

  • PLT 6104 Sustainable Development

    This course introduces students to the process of development project evaluation, in the context of the theory and practice of sustainable development. The course enables students to focus on the political, social and economic complexity of managing a specific sustainable development in the developing world. Methods of evaluation are explored, decided upon and utilised in the production of a Project Evaluation Document (PED) for a sustainable development project of choice. Issues such as livelihoods, gender, environmental impact, measurement, participation and consultation processes are raised, though the context varies across urban/rural and blue-green-brown issues depending on the specific project chosen for evaluation.

  • INR 6105 Security Studies

    This course examines enduring and contemporary questions of security and insecurity in the international system. Security has traditionally been defined in terms of strategic state politics and the use of military force to counter external military threats. However, contemporary sources of insecurity raise questions about the continued relevance of traditional theories of security. New security threats (such as human security, environmental security, cyber security) have been defined both in the academic literature and by state security strategies. This course critically evaluates these developments using IR and security studies theories, supplemented by practical case-studies. Students investigate the definition of the term security and threats to security, questions about the referent object of security, the root causes of insecurity and the methods of eliminating or lessening such threats.

  • INR 6296 Senior Seminar in International Relations 1

    This research intensive course for the major is the first part of a two semester sequence taken in the Senior year. Students produce a research proposal, a literature review and a substantial draft that feeds directly into Senior Seminar 2 which culminates in a 8,000 - 10,000 word dissertation. Students are guided through the various stages of proposal and dissertation writing, and draft work is supervised regularly in a process of continuous feedback.

  • INR 6297 Senior Seminar in International Relations 2

    Senior Seminar 2 is second half of the research intensive course for the major. Building directly on the writing completed in Senior Seminar 1, students produce an 8,000-10,000 word thesis driven research paper. Students are guided through the various stages of drafting and revising their final dissertation, and orally present their research according to conference standards as part of the formative process.

Plus one of the following:

  • AMS 6101 The American Presidency

    This course studies the American presidency in a deliberately multi-disciplinary fashion, taking into account the history of the office, its place within the American system of government as well as its cultural and international impact. The course considers the origins, history and evolution of the presidency; addresses the powers and limitations of the office; examines the individuals who have sought and held the title and explore the continuing cultural impact of the American Presidency.

  • HST 6101 Culture, Power, and Empire

    This course examines the causes, consequences and significance of empires throughout history from a broad range of comparative and international perspectives, including the economic, political, social and (by way of postcolonial theory) the cultural. It investigates why empires are significant, who are the empire-makers, how and why empires rise and fall, whether they are good or bad, how they are defined and how they can be resisted. The subject matter ranges from the earliest land superpowers of the ancient world to the 鈥楴ew Rome鈥 - the United States. The sources studied range from the visual to the virtual, including primary and historiographical. The course finishes by suggesting other potential contenders for imperial hegemony, including Multinational Corporations, individuals and religious organisations. It examines the question as to whether or not all history is essentially a history of empire, with the legacies of this imperial past (if not some of the empires themselves) still alive and well despite decolonisation. Where possible the course will make use of museums and collections within London.

  • HST 6104 Modern Warfare and Social Change

    This course explores the changing nature and history of warfare from the Modern period to the end of the twentieth century. The central premise is that war often reflects the societies and cultures that wage it. This notion is tested by examining several different examples of warfare and society across different cultures, historical periods, and geographic locations. This course will include substantive analysis of the ethos, causes, and socio-political impacts of wars, as well as examine the role of war in the development of nations and 鈥榥ational identities. We will debate questions arising from topics such as: the most influential military leaders; strategies, tactics, and weaponry; state structures and finance; debates over gender; and technological and ideological clashes between different cultures and social systems, examining the conflicts within and between states. The class will involve some visits to local museums and sites of relevance, and where possible/desirable, some overseas visits might be included.

  • INR 6102 Politics of International Law

    This course examines the concept, scope and nature of Public International Law and its significance in the context of the international political system. It examines the sources of international law, theories of state participation and compliance, and legal-political mechanisms of enforcements. The course explores key issues in international law such as: the rights and duties of states, economic and environmental law, the legality of the use of force and of the conduct of warfare, human rights and international criminal law, the role of international tribunals and more. Students consider the politics of law-making, compliance and enforcement in different issue areas, and contend with the impact of fragmentation and self-regulation on the effectiveness of international law in a range of case studies.

  • INR 6104 Peace and Justice

    The course explores various philosophical, political and cultural traditions on peace and non-violence, and focuses on the important and problematic relationship between peace and justice and the local and global levels, and the influence of different actors. The course combines a theoretical and comparative approach to learn from cases about the conditions that made peace successful or unsuccessful, and considers the legacy of the 鈥榩eace versus justice鈥 debate. The course also explores the lessons learned from transitional justice policies and experiences, the role of the UN and its agencies and the impact of non-state actors and organizations, and considers the extent to which a single global standard (i.e. Western) of justice can be agreed and implemented, and what alternative approaches to the liberal view of peace and justice are explored in different cultural and political contexts.

  • PLT 6102 Policy-Making in a Globalized World

    This course investigates the process of policy-making in modern states. It explores the role of ideas and institutions in policy-making, how in the new globalized world governments 鈥渋mport鈥 and 鈥渂orrow鈥 policy ideas from each other, while analyzing how the different actors (i.e. states, bureaucrats, think-tanks, policy-networks, lobby groups, global civil society, and citizens) participate and influence the policy-making process. Through active learning activities (such as mapping the agenda-setting of ideas, identifying policy networks, advising a President) students will understand the complexities of policy-making and the challenges that the modern state faces in the era of globalization.

  • PLT 6105 The European Union

    This course analyses the historical evolution of the European Union from its inception until the current times. The course also examines the nature of the EU, the role of its institutions, the impact of European common policies like the Single Market, the monetary union and Foreign and Security Policy. The course then addresses the governance challenges the EU faces, namely the rise of Euroscepticism, the management of the Eurozone and migratory pressures from outside the EU.

Integrated Internship

  • INR 6901 World Internship International Relations

    The Internship in International Relations is a student work placement that aims to provide students with the experience of working internationally in related industries.Students will develop the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to function well in a culturally diverse working environment. All internships are supervised by faculty, and all last a minimum of 6 weeks in length and are carried out full time Monday to Thursday/ Friday. Each student will also complete a series of assessments throughout the internship, such as keeping a written journal of their experience, preparing an internship portfolio, and delivering a final presentation. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the skills they are learning and the benefits gained from the internship experience, and also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During the internship, the staff of the Internship Office and a faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the placement is a successful one. Students鈥 final grades are based on several factors including, written assignments, presentation, and a report from their workplace supervisor which is taken into consideration.

  • INR 6902 Internship In International Relations

    The Internship in International Relations is a student work placement that aims to provide students with the experience of working internationally in related industries.Students will develop the intellectual, professional, and personal skills that will enable them to function well in a culturally diverse working environment. All internships are supervised by faculty, and all last a minimum of 6 weeks in length and are carried out full time Monday to Thursday/ Friday. Each student will also complete a series of assessments throughout the internship, such as keeping a written journal of their experience, preparing an internship portfolio, and delivering a final presentation. These assessments have been designed to help the student reflect on the skills they are learning and the benefits gained from the internship experience, and also to help them determine if their current career goals are the correct fit for them. During the internship, the staff of the Internship Office and a faculty supervisor work closely with each student to ensure that the placement is a successful one. Students鈥 final grades are based on several factors including, written assignments, presentation, and a report from their workplace supervisor which is taken into consideration.

In terms of following up with the assessment of student learning and consistent with US liberal arts traditions, our classes rely on the system of continuous assessment on a course by course basis and throughout any given semester. This approach often involves the use of term-papers, portfolios of work, quizzes, mid-semester and final exams as well as student presentations and general class discussion. Not every component applies to every course, but most do relate to many of the classes that are offered. Many of our courses involve a site visit or require attendance at a public lecture as well.

In addition to the courses outlined above, there are open electives in each year. Course content and delivery can be subject to change. For more detailed information on the programme specification, please find more details here.

A normal course load per academic year is 30 US credits, equivalent to 120 UK credits. Students complete 120 UK credits at Level 6 in their chosen major.

There are many reasons why taking this programme with extended programme option could be the ideal choice; you may not have the exact subjects or grades at A level to meet the entry requirements, you may have tried other options such as apprenticeship and want to change direction or have been living abroad.

Whatever your starting point, studying this programme with extended programme option offers you a great opportunity to gain both a UK and US degree and start the adventure of a lifetime, studying with us in the world鈥檚 top student city.

This is what our extended programme option can offer you:

  • Start this programme with lower entry qualifications, see below
  • A four year, full-time degree programme with an extra summer semester in Year 1 included for free, so you can study at your own pace
  • Timetabled English and study skills classes to enhance your knowledge and skills
  • Great student support including a Personal Academic Advisor, with help on housing, health and wellbeing, financial guidance and careers advice from our award-winning Student Affairs team

At 快活视频 our undergraduate degree programmes, which are based on the US educational approach, are offered on a four year pathway. Every undergraduate degree student will first enter our Liberal Arts programme before specialising in their Major.

The entry requirements for all undergraduate programmes at 快活视频 are the same, regardless of your chosen Major.

Academic Entry Requirements

Below is information on our entry requirements for both 4 years and 4 years with foundation programmes.

4 YEARS

  • A Levels: 96 UCAS points
  • US High School Diploma (or equivalent): 2.5 GPA minimum (on 4.0 scale)
  • International Baccalaureate: 24 IB points (year 1)
  • BTEC National Diploma: MMM

Other international equivalent qualifications are accepted 鈥 please email admissions@richmond.ac.uk for further details.

4 YEARS including summer semester(s) (Extended Degree) (Full-time)

  • GCSEs: 5 at grade C or above / grade 4-9 (or equivalent)

We understand that not every student is in the same situation, if you have any questions about your qualifications, please get in touch with us admissions@richmond.ac.uk.


English Language Entry Requirements

For more information on English Language Requirements for your country visit our How to Apply webpage.

Undergraduate tuition fees for students starting their programme this academic year can be found in the table below.

  UK EU / INT / US
  Fall 2023/Spring 2024 Fall 2024/Spring 2025 Fall 2023/Spring 2024 Fall 2024/Spring 2025
Undergraduate Programmes
(per year)
拢9,250 拢9,250 拢14,900 拢15,645

*This includes a scholarship award upon successful application


(Hint: Scroll left & right to view the full table)

For more information visit our听Tuition Fees & Funding webpage.

The University offers personal development seminars, leadership opportunities and access to work experience, volunteering and internships. There is also a dedicated, personalised service for assistance with CV writing, interview preparation tips and much more.

Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to build links with industry experts and 快活视频 alumni, connecting you to a vast and influential worldwide network.


Internships
We offer career support and advice through our听Careers & Internships Office that will assist and guide you in your study choices to make sure you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Whether you are interested in gaining work experience in London or internationally, we will be here to help you find the best possible opportunities.

Through internships you will gain听business acumen, beneficial work experiences and transferable skills听which will give you a competitive advantage in a fast-paced working environment.

Work while you study across 5 continents through our partners听听and听听with destinations in Spain, Argentina, South Africa, China, Japan, Vietnam and Australia.

Graduate Destinations
Below is a list of where some of the graduates of this programme have gone on to work.

  • Embassy of Dominican Republic
  • The European Commission
  • Moody鈥檚 Investors Service
  • PwCoopers
  • US Department of Homeland Security

All students at 快活视频 University have the opportunity to study abroad. You can either study at one of our campuses听for a semester to a year or听study overseas at any of our partner locations across the world giving you an unique experience.

You can apply one of three ways, either apply directly听through us, apply through听UCAS听and for our US students, via the听Common Application听($50.00).

In order to submit your application you will need the following information

  • Details of your education history, including the dates of all exams/assessments
  • The email address of your referee who we can request a reference from, or alternatively an electronic copy of your academic reference
  • A personal statement 鈥 this can either be emailed as a Word Document or PDF, or completed online
  • An electronic copy of your in process or completed high school (secondary school) transcript and graduation certificate

Visit our听How to Apply webpage听for more information regarding Entry Requirements, admissions processes and to start your application.

When to apply
We encourage you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you are completing your undergraduate programme of study. In this case you will be offered a place that is conditional on successfully completing a specified qualification and English language qualification if applicable.

If you would like your application to be considered for a 快活视频 bursary, an early application is strongly recommended.

鈥淢y time at 快活视频 has been incredibly enriching both from an academic and personal perspective. I had the opportunity to grow and learn from an inspiring international community of faculty and students while living in the heart of London.

My BA in International Relations introduced me to a variety of fascinating subjects and generated in me a passion for international development and public policy that defined my career path. 

Thus, I pursued a MSc in Migration, mobility and development from SOAS university and worked for international organisations in Asia and Europe.

The classes I followed at 快活视频 were unique thanks to the engaging and practical attitude of the professors. Along with theoretical concepts and practical knowledge, they instilled in us the thirst for critical thinking, which fundamentally shaped me as a person and allowed me to stand out in my career.鈥

鈥淪tudying in the heart of London was exceptional, especially for my career in International Relations 鈥 there is such a diversity regarding organizations where you can do an internship and also the other students were from all over the world, which provided different perspectives on several topics.

The professors were supportive and motivating 鈥 快活视频 really confirmed that I am on the right path, connected me to inspirational people and opened up the horizon for my future career.鈥

鈥淪tudying here at 快活视频 has definitely given me that international environment I was looking for and has been truly an amazing experience!鈥

 鈥淚nternational Relations classes here are so enriching and engaging, not only because I love what I鈥檓 studying but also because of the structure in which classes are taught. The students and teachers here are so diverse in background that when discussing international topics, you鈥檙e able to learn first-hand about different countries, their governments, and how they live. The classes are interactive and never overwhelming in size, and I am amazed how much I have enjoyed learning and growing in these past two years.鈥

鈥淭he diversity within 快活视频 also helps to create and very unique peer environment. The close-knit students here push each other at all times to be more kind, courageous, caring, accepting, and curious, all while striving for academic excellence. It鈥檚 the perfect school for a student who wants to learn and live globally and have a lot of fun along the way.鈥

鈥溈旎钍悠 imbued in me a commitment to help make the world a better place. As a senior civil servant at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) I lead a team that helps American communities become more resilient to disasters. I recall my time at 快活视频 fondly and hope that current and future students get as much out of their years in London as I did.鈥

鈥淣early a decade after graduating from 快活视频 with a BA in International Relations, I am still using the skills and knowledge I acquired during my time in London. Academically, 快活视频 prepared me for my work at multiple US federal agencies and my graduate program at Brown University, where I received a Masters in Public Affairs.

My professors at 快活视频 brought a level of expertise and insight that continues to bring value to my work today as a Strategic Communications Director at Finsbury Glover Hering, a leading global strategic communications and public affairs communications consultancy based in Washington, US.

Making the choice to attend 快活视频 also brought the life experience of moving to a different country, living in a dynamic city, and being immersed in a diverse, multicultural community. All these unique facets of going to 快活视频 ensured my time at university helped me grow personally and professionally.鈥

鈥淎fter earning my BA in Political Science and International Relations from 快活视频, I went on to earn my MSc from the London School of Economics and JD from Rutgers School of Law.  I am currently a Deputy Attorney General for New Jersey in the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.  I joined my current office after practicing at a large international law firm for more than five years. 

There is a through line from my time at 快活视频 to my current practice.  Practicing law requires, among other things, the ability to quickly digest facts, see an issue from all sides, and draw key distinctions among competing arguments. At 快活视频, the quality of instruction, class size, and diverse community of students helped make me uniquely prepared for my career. 鈥

Register for an Undergraduate open event at 快活视频 >>

Sign up and find out about our programmes, generous scholarships and what life is like at 快活视频.

Related programmes

鈥淚 had the best academic and personal experience at 快活视频 University. The liberal arts degree, close relations with professors and the international environment provided a rigorous academic training and development opportunities.

Studying International Relations (BA) in my undergraduate at 快活视频 sparked my curiosity in the field and ultimately laid the foundations for specialising in a Master鈥檚 in Political Economy of Europe at the London School of Economics.

The 快活视频 experience equipped me with superior critical thinking abilities that still provide a competitive edge to this day.鈥

A smiling person poses for a portrait photography headshot, showcasing their neck, shoulder, and lip adorned with lipstick.
Marie Therese BitterlichInternational Relations, minor in Economics (BA)

“My time at 快活视频 has been incredibly enriching both from an academic and personal perspective. I had the opportunity to grow and learn from an inspiring international community of faculty and students while living in the heart of London.

My BA in International Relations introduced me to a variety of fascinating subjects and generated in me a passion for international development and public policy that defined my career path.听

Thus, I pursued a MSc in Migration, mobility and development from SOAS university and worked for international organisations in Asia and Europe.

The classes I followed at 快活视频 were unique thanks to the engaging and practical attitude of the professors. Along with theoretical concepts and practical knowledge, they instilled in us the thirst for critical thinking, which fundamentally shaped me as a person and allowed me to stand out in my career.”

The person has long hair.
Carolina CirilloInternational Relations (BA)

鈥淪tudying in the heart of London was exceptional, especially for my career in International Relations 鈥 there is such a diversity regarding organizations where you can do an internship and also the other students were from all over the world, which provided different perspectives on several topics.

The professors were supportive and motivating 鈥 快活视频 really confirmed that I am on the right path, connected me to inspirational people and opened up the horizon for my future career.鈥

A person is touching their face.
Ghina Marie FrickeInternational Relations (BA)

鈥淪tudying here at 快活视频 has definitely given me that international environment I was looking for and has been truly an amazing experience!鈥

鈥淚nternational Relations classes here are so enriching and engaging, not only because I love what I鈥檓 studying but also because of the structure in which classes are taught. The students and teachers here are so diverse in background that when discussing international topics, you鈥檙e able to learn first-hand about different countries, their governments, and how they live. The classes are interactive and never overwhelming in size, and I am amazed how much I have enjoyed learning and growing in these past two years.鈥

鈥淭he diversity within 快活视频 also helps to create and very unique peer environment. The close-knit students here push each other at all times to be more kind, courageous, caring, accepting, and curious, all while striving for academic excellence. It鈥檚 the perfect school for a student who wants to learn and live globally and have a lot of fun along the way.鈥

A person holds a donut while smiling.
Sky Harsch, Michigan USAInternational Relations (BA)

鈥溈旎钍悠 imbued in me a commitment to help make the world a better place. As a senior civil servant at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) I lead a team that helps American communities become more resilient to disasters. I recall my time at 快活视频 fondly and hope that current and future students get as much out of their years in London as I did.鈥

A person wears a suit and tie.
Aaron H LevyInternational Relations (BA)

“Nearly a decade after graduating from 快活视频 with a BA in International Relations, I am still using the skills and knowledge I acquired during my time in London. Academically, 快活视频 prepared me for my work at multiple US federal agencies and my graduate program at Brown University, where I received a Masters in Public Affairs.

My professors at 快活视频 brought a level of expertise and insight that continues to bring value to my work today as a Strategic Communications Director at Finsbury Glover Hering, a leading global strategic communications and public affairs communications consultancy based in Washington, US.

Making the choice to attend 快活视频 also brought the life experience of moving to a different country, living in a dynamic city, and being immersed in a diverse, multicultural community. All these unique facets of going to 快活视频 ensured my time at university helped me grow personally and professionally.”

A person is smiling for the camera.
Annie OrloffInternational Relations (BA)

“After earning my BA in Political Science and International Relations from 快活视频, I went on to earn my MSc from the London School of Economics and JD from Rutgers School of Law.听听I am currently a Deputy Attorney General for New Jersey in the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.听听I joined my current office after practicing at a large international law firm for more than five years.听

There is a through line from my time at 快活视频 to my current practice.听听Practicing law requires, among other things, the ability to quickly digest facts, see an issue from all sides, and draw key distinctions among competing arguments. At 快活视频, the quality of instruction, class size, and diverse community of students helped make me uniquely prepared for my career. “

A person is wearing glasses.
Trevor H. TaniguchiInternational Relations (BA)