University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

International Relations with International Development 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 with International Development BA (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth equips you to critically analyse global challenges and contribute to solutions. You will explore the complex interplay of political, economic, and social forces shaping our world, from the causes of conflict and migration to the intricacies of international development and global inequality. This degree is designed for students eager to understand the structures of power, the dynamics of global governance, and the institutions aiming to foster peace and prosperity worldwide, preparing you for impactful careers.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging with core modules in political thought, international theory, and research methods, alongside specialised topics such as the geopolitics of Africa, climate crises, and decolonial politics. The curriculum integrates practical skills development, including opportunities for professional experience through placements and a significant final-year dissertation or major project. Upon graduation, you will possess the analytical acumen and interdisciplinary knowledge to pursue careers in diplomacy, international organisations, NGOs, policy analysis, and further postgraduate study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) program in International Relations with International Development offers a comprehensive exploration of global dynamics and development challenges. Across three years, students will engage with core concepts in international relations, political thought, and global development, examining themes such as the making of the Global South and the geopolitics of Africa. The curriculum also includes compulsory modules on rethinking aid, security challenges, and professional identity, alongside a wide array of elective options allowing for specialization in areas like foreign policy analysis, climate crises, or specific regional studies.

1 Year 1

Critical Thinking and Professional Identity Compulsory
Global Development Compulsory
Key Themes in International Relations Compulsory
Political Thought Compulsory
The Making of the Global South Compulsory

2 Year 2

International Thought Compulsory
Bending the Truth A Little? Researching Politics and International Relations Compulsory
The Geopolitics and Geo-Economics of Africa Compulsory

3 Optional modules

Analysing Foreign Policy Elective
East Asian States and Societies Elective
US Politics Elective
Climate Crises Elective
Gender and Social Justice Elective
A History of US Foreign Policy: From the Great War to 9/11 Elective
Empire and its Afterlives in Britain, Europe and Africa Elective
Professional Experience Elective
Russia, Central Europe and the World Elective

4 Year 3

Rethinking Aid and Development Compulsory
Security Challenges in the Twenty-First Century Compulsory

5 Optional modules

Dissertation (International Relations) Elective
Major Project Elective
Global Capitalism: Past, Present and Future Elective
NGOs and Social Movements Elective
Professional Development: Recruiters and Candidates Elective
Race, Rights and Development: Global Perspectives on Inequality and Social Justice Elective
Independent Project (International Relations) Elective
Decolonial Politics and Theory in International Relations Elective
France in the World: Global Actor or Global Maverick? Elective
Global Health Elective
International Security in the Asia-Pacific Elective
Professional Experience Elective
Religion and Politics in Global Perspective Elective
The European Union: A Global Power in the Making? Elective

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

Alternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityArchitecture & Urban PlanningAutomation & RoboticsAviation Maintenance & RepairCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCustomer Experience & SupportForestry & LoggingIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionSatellite CommunicationsTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BAE System

EY

European commission

HSBC Bank

IBM

National Farmers'​ Union

University of Portsmouth

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

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, you need to meet our English language requirements. Acceptable scores include TOEFL with a minimum overall of 91 or IELTS with a minimum overall of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, program coordinators, international aid workers, and roles in government or NGOs.

What will I actually study in this course?

This BA (Hons) in International Relations with International Development focuses on global challenges like conflict causes and climate change responses. You'll engage with current problems and study the roles of various international actors.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for this program is September. Make sure to check application deadlines and prepare your documents in advance.
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