Aston University United Kingdom

History and International Relations BSc (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Aston University History and International Relations BSc (Hons) is your gateway to understanding the forces that shape our world, past and present. This undergraduate degree is ideal if you are fascinated by the intricate connections between historical events and contemporary global dynamics, seeking to develop a nuanced perspective on topics from the history of war and peace to state-building and inter-state relations. You will explore diverse historical periods and international political theories, equipping you with the critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex global challenges. This programme offers a robust academic foundation for those aspiring to careers in diplomacy, policy, research, or journalism.

You will study this full-time, on-campus programme over four years, including an integrated placement year designed to enhance your professional development. Your learning journey will involve engaging with core modules in global history, international relations theories, and contemporary Britain, alongside a wide array of optional subjects allowing you to tailor your studies. In your final year, you will undertake a significant dissertation, applying your research methodologies to a topic of your choice. You will graduate with a deep understanding of historical context and international affairs, prepared for diverse career paths and further academic pursuits.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) program in History and International Relations offers a comprehensive exploration of global historical developments and the complexities of international affairs. Students will engage with foundational concepts in both disciplines, examining historical methodologies, contemporary global issues, and theoretical frameworks in international relations. The curriculum progresses through various historical periods and international relations topics, culminating in a dissertation and specialized modules in the final year, with an integrated placement year also available.

1 Year 1 Modules

Global history in perspective Core
Making histories I: methods, theories, controversies Core
Contemporary Britain: from the Boer War to Brexit Core
Introduction to concepts and methods of international relations Core
Introduction to the European Union Core
The making of the modern world Optional
What's trending (current affairs in politics and international relations) Optional

2 Year 2 Modules

Case studies in global history Core
Making histories II Core
International relations: theories Core
Critical approaches to security studies Core
Humanitarian action and foreign intervention, 1915 - today Optional
The Atlantic world: slavery and emancipation Optional
History of internationalism: from Karl Marx to Greta Thunberg Optional
West European politics and society Optional
North American politics and society Optional
East Asian politics and society: China and Japan Optional
South Asian politics and society Optional
International relations in political thought Optional
Security studies: theories and issues Optional
The politics and policies of the European Union Optional
International political economy Optional

3 Placement Year Modules

Integrated placement year Core

4 Final Year Modules

Dissertation (History or International Relations) Core
History workshop Core
African politics: from the colonial period to the present day Optional
America in the world Optional
The American presidency Optional
Chinese politics and society Optional
Conflict and intervention Optional
Diplomacy and soft power Optional
EuroSim: learning negotiation through simulation games Optional
Gender and politics Optional
Interest groups and lobbying Optional
Politics and Islam: past and present Optional
Politics and protest in a globalised world Optional
Politics of development Optional
Religion and politics in contemporary Europe Optional
Sport and politics Optional
Technology and digital politics Optional
The international relations of East Asia Optional
The populist radical right in Europe Optional
Debates in contemporary British politics Optional
Political parties Optional
Twin periods? The interwar years and post-1989 history Optional
Bullets, bombs and bitcoin: history and technology since 1990 Optional
Rage, shame and hope: emotions and politics from the 19th to the 21st century Optional
Teaching history in the 21st century Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

17% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,673.00 USD 23,730.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,730.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,730.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,730.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 90,865.00 USD 94,923.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 687.00 - USD 1,335.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Birmingham City Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

80%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringClinical & Medical ServicesEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesHealthcare Administration & ManagementInsurance & Risk ManagementQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationSpecial & Inclusive EducationWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

Goldman Sachs

Ministry of Justice UK

United Nations

Why Study History and International Relations BSc (Hons) at Aston University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Aston University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about History and International Relations BSc (Hons) at Aston University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks while enrolled in degree courses. No separate work permit is required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management..

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 78 or an IELTS overall score of 6.0 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Diplomat, Policy Analyst, Researcher, Journalist, and International Relations Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree explores the connections between historical events and current global dynamics, focusing on subjects like the history of war and peace and international relations theories. You'll develop critical thinking skills and have the opportunity to engage in a significant dissertation in your final year.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the History and International Relations BSc (Hons) program is September. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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