Aston University United Kingdom

International Relations and Sociology BSc (Hons) with placement

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 International Relations and Sociology BSc (Hons) with placement at Aston University is designed for students eager to critically examine the complex interplay between global politics and societal structures. In an era defined by interconnected challenges, this programme equips you with the analytical skills to understand and address issues ranging from international conflict and security to social inequality and cultural dynamics. You will delve into core concepts of international relations and sociology, exploring how political systems, social theories, and human behaviour shape our world. This undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring policymakers, researchers, and global citizens seeking to make a tangible impact.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, you will engage with foundational modules in international relations theory, research methods, and social theory, alongside a wide array of optional subjects. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, including opportunities for a CIPR-accredited integrated placement year to gain invaluable real-world experience. You will graduate with a deep understanding of both disciplines, enhanced research capabilities, and the confidence to pursue diverse career paths in government, NGOs, international business, and research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of international relations and sociology, equipping students with foundational knowledge and advanced analytical skills. You will delve into core concepts, theories, and research methods in both disciplines, examining global politics, social structures, and contemporary societal issues. The curriculum includes opportunities for in-depth study through optional modules and culminates in a dissertation, allowing for specialized research and a thorough understanding of the interconnectedness between international affairs and sociological perspectives.

1 Year 1 Modules

Introduction to the Concepts and Methods of International Relations 30 credits
Introduction to the European Union 15 credits
Introduction to Social Theory 30 credits
Becoming a Social Scientist 30 credits
The Making of the Modern World Optional 15 credits
What’s Trending (Current Affairs in Politics and International Relations) Optional 15 credits

2 Year 2 Modules

International Relations: Theories 15 credits
Critical Approaches to Security Studies 15 credits
Research Methods 15 credits
Advanced Research Methods 15 credits
West European Politics and Society Optional 15 credits
North American Politics and Society Optional 15 credits
East Asian Politics and Society: China and Japan Optional 15 credits
South Asian Politics and Society Optional 15 credits
International Relations in Political Thought Optional 15 credits
Security Studies: Theories and Issues Optional 15 credits
The Politics and Policies of the European Union Optional 15 credits
International Political Economy Optional 15 credits
Social Theory for a Changing World Optional 15 credits
Global Society Optional 15 credits
Embodiment and Feminist Theory Optional 15 credits
Media and Society Optional 15 credits
Kith and Kin: Family Lives in a Social Context Optional 15 credits
Material Worlds: Culture, Objects and Practices Optional 15 credits
CSI: Crime, Subversion and Injustice Optional 15 credits
Racisms Optional 15 credits
Welfare Optional 15 credits
Health and Society Optional 15 credits

3 Placement Year Modules

Integrated Placement Year 120 credits

4 Final Year Modules

Dissertation (Sociology) 30 credits
Research Skills and International Relations Dissertation 30 credits
African Politics: From the Colonial Period to the Present Day Optional 15 credits
America in the World Optional 15 credits
The American Presidency Optional 15 credits
Chinese Politics and Society Optional 15 credits
Conflict and Intervention Optional 15 credits
Diplomacy and Soft Power Optional 15 credits
EuroSim: Learning Negotiation through Simulation Games Optional 15 credits
Gender and Politics Optional 15 credits
Interest Groups and Lobbying Optional 15 credits
Politics and Islam: Past and Present Optional 15 credits
Politics and Protest in a Globalised World Optional 15 credits
Religion and Politics in Contemporary Europe Optional 15 credits
Sport and Politics Optional 15 credits
Technology and Digital Politics Optional 15 credits
The International Relations of East Asia Optional 15 credits
The Populist Radical Right in Europe Optional 15 credits
Debates in Contemporary British Politics Optional 15 credits
Political Parties Optional 15 credits
Work, Organisations and Society Optional 15 credits
Bodies, Power and Resistance Optional 15 credits
Contemporary Social Movements Optional 15 credits
Pregnancy and Politics Optional 15 credits
Education for the 21st Century Optional 15 credits
Religion and Society Optional 15 credits
Corporate Power in a Globalised World Optional 15 credits
Migration, Borders and Belonging Optional 15 credits
Health Policy Optional 15 credits
The Challenges of Climate Change Optional 15 credits
Community Engagement Optional 15 credits
Elites Optional 15 credits

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

Commercial & Industrial ConstructionCorporate Training & DevelopmentHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHigher Education & UniversitiesHome Health & Long‑Term CareIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

City Year UK

European commission

Goldman Sachs

United Nations

Why Study International Relations and Sociology BSc (Hons) with placement 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 International Relations and Sociology BSc (Hons) with placement at Aston University

Can I work while studying?

Students are permitted to work while studying, with a maximum of 20 hours per week. Those in the program may work up to 40 hours outside study commitments.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

This course is accredited by Chartered Institute of Public Relations. You can verify details at https://cipr.co.uk/.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, applicants can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, TOEFL requires an overall score of 78, while IELTS requires at least 6.0 overall.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policymakers, researchers, or roles in NGOs, international business, and academia.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program explores global politics and societal structures, emphasizing international conflict, security, and social inequality. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills to address complex world issues.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the International Relations and Sociology BSc (Hons) is September. This gives students the chance to start their academic journey at the beginning of the academic year.
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