University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

International Relations BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The International Relations BA (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth equips you to critically analyse the complex forces shaping our globalised world, from geopolitical rivalries and international development to global security challenges and the dynamics of foreign policy. If you are passionate about understanding the causes of conflict, the intricacies of international cooperation, and the impact of global institutions, this degree provides the essential framework. You will explore key themes in international relations, delve into political thought, and examine the historical and contemporary dimensions of global power structures, preparing you for informed engagement with pressing world issues.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over three years, offering a structured yet flexible curriculum. You will engage with modules covering critical thinking, global development, and international thought, with opportunities to specialise through a wide range of optional subjects such as analysing foreign policy, global security, or transitional justice. Throughout your studies, you will develop crucial research and analytical skills, culminating in a dissertation or major project in your final year. You will graduate with the expertise to pursue careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, security, and diplomacy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) in International Relations program offers a comprehensive exploration of global affairs, commencing with foundational concepts in critical thinking, political thought, and key international relations themes. Students will delve into global development, the making of the global south, and international thought, while developing research methodologies. The curriculum further expands to cover contemporary security challenges, with a wide array of optional modules allowing for specialization in areas such as foreign policy analysis, regional studies, global security, and political theory.

1 Year 1

Critical thinking and professional identity
Global development
Key themes in international relations
Political thought
The making of the global south

2 Year 2

International thought
Bending the truth a little? Researching politics and international relations

3 Optional modules

Analysing foreign policy
Development and democracy in Latin America
East Asian states and societies
US politics
A history of US foreign policy: From the Great War to 9/11
Empire and its afterlives in Britain, Europe and Africa
Engaged citizenship in humanities and social sciences
Global security
Intercultural perspectives on communication
Marketing and communication
Modernity and globalisation
Nationalism and migration: Chaos, crisis and the everyday
News, discourse and media
Principles of economic crime investigation
Professional experience
Puritans to postmodernists: American literature
Russia, Central Europe and the world
The geopolitics and geo-economics of Africa
Transitional justice and human rights
Wildlife crime: Threats and response

4 Year 3

Security challenges in the twenty-first century

5 Optional modules

Dissertation (International Relations)
Major project
Global capitalism: Past, present and future
NGOs and social movements
Professional development: Recruiters and candidates
Race, rights and development: Global perspectives on inequality and social justice
Independent project (International Relations)
Decolonial politics and theory in international relations
France in the world: Global actor or global maverick?
Global health
International security in the Asia-Pacific
Professional experience
Religion and politics in global perspective
The European Union: A global power in the making?

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,586.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Architecture & Urban PlanningCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCommercial & Industrial ConstructionConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsElectrical & Mechanical InstallationEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionProject & Construction ManagementQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationReal Estate DevelopmentResidential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

Why Study International Relations BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth 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 BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you need specific scores, such as an overall TOEFL score of 91 or an IELTS score of 6.0. Ensure you meet these standards for successful admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, international relations specialists, and roles in local and national government.

What will I actually study in this course?

In this program, you will examine major issues like global migration and the rise of populist politics. You'll also learn the skills needed to enact positive change in society.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The International Relations BA (Hons) program has its intake in September. Make sure to apply early to secure your spot in this engaging course.
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