BA (Hons) International Relations with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L25A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Course Overview
Are you curious about how the world works? Do you wonder how we can find a collective response to urgent global issues such as climate change, conflict and warfare, emerging technologies, global inequality, and racism? If so, then you're already on your way to thinking like an international relations student. And studying International Relations with us is a sure way to gain a deeper understanding of these global issues.
Our International Relations with a Year Abroad undergraduate degree will help you better understand the dynamics of a constantly changing world. You’ll explore global issues and theories, learn how to challenge, collect and analyze information, construct arguments, and communicate your ideas in different ways. This will be done through core modules providing you with theoretical and applied foundations in international studies, as well as through a large choice of optional modules helping you tailor your course to your own interests and goals.
At UEA, you’ll be taught by cutting-edge specialists in international relations. You’ll develop the ability to think critically about regional, national, and international politics from Europe to the Indo-Pacific, to understand international issues such as combating climate change and the spread of weapons of mass destruction, and to interrogate structures such as the historical racial hierarchy of the modern world.
Our BA International Relations with a Year Abroad course prepares you for a variety of career paths in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Your personal adviser and dedicated School career adviser work with you to help you obtain the knowledge and skills you need to pursue your passion and make a difference. We also offer opportunities to take part in study trips, internships and placements, as well as an extended period of study abroad.
On this version of the course, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to spend your third year studying at one of our partner institutions across the globe.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
This 4-year version of the course gives you the opportunity to spend the third year of your degree studying with one of UEA's many partner institutions across the globe, which offers teaching in your subject and in English. Destinations range from Japan to Hong Kong, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and Canada and the USA.
Studying Abroad gives you the opportunity to broaden your academic and social horizons, giving you opportunities to develop your confidence and communication skills, while bringing a unique element to your CV that will help you stand out to prospective employers. Availability at our partner institutions does vary from year to year and we always recommend you bring an open mind about your destination preference. You'll also need to meet certain academic progression requirements (scoring an aggregate of 55% in your first- and second-year assessments). If for this or for any other reason you were to decide you were unable to spend your third year abroad, you can transfer to a 3-year version of your degree at any time.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your learning will be progressive. In the first year of your International Relations degree, you’ll build a solid foundation through core modules introducing you to the study of global politics. You'll discover the core theoretical approaches to the dynamics of global politics, and look at different international systems across history. You’ll also learn key concepts including sovereignty, the balance of power, international law, security, and globalization. You'll also begin to integrate modules of your choice, such as political communication.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
hroughout your degree, you'll be taught in a range of environments. These cover traditional lectures through to small-group seminars where you and your peers can discuss, and debate topics covered in the module. Our teaching is focused, interactive, and up to date with events around the world. You’ll learn crucial skills such as how to summarise and analyse information, how to develop and critique arguments, and how to speak in public. At the same time, you'll learn about the world of global politics.
In this year, you learn about the foundations of global politics, key concepts and topical debates, setting you up for your second year.
Independent Learning
You’ll prepare for your weekly teaching with a series of guided tasks, such as preparing answers to seminar questions, or completing small weekly writing tasks, helping you to develop key study skills. You'll also complete longer assessments like essays, presentations and projects.
How you'll spend your time:
- Teaching: 25%
- Independent Learning: 75%
Assessment
Our assessments are predominantly at the individual level. These include essays and other written assessments including mini-essays, portfolios, short critical summaries, and reading logs.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll develop analytical skills. You’ll cover the foundations of international relations theory and be introduced to the ways in which people interpret the world from various perspectives – liberalism, realism, constructivism, postcolonialism, gender studies, environmentalism, and so on. You’ll also acquire essential research methods skills, such as conducting interviews or running and analysing a survey. As you progress in your degree, you'll be encouraged to specialise in your studies by taking modules that focus on more specific topics, such as gender and power, global political economy, international security, or regions of the world, such as the United States or the Middle East. This allows you to help shape your expertise around topics about which you're most interested. You’ll also have the occasion to study abroad in the spring semester of this year.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional G Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The second year moves beyond the foundations to explore different areas of global politics, both geographically and theoretically. You’ll have more opportunities to speak in front of your peers and tutors, developing key analytical, writing and presentation skills.
Independent Learning
You’ll write longer pieces and start to develop your own research skills and areas of interest. You'll have the opportunity to take modules with a range of different assessments including writing policy briefs, reflective essays, or literature reviews.
How you'll spend your time:
- Teaching: 25%
- Independent Learning: 75%
Assessment
As you progress through your degree, you choose from a wide range of modules with a range of assessment formats. Most assessments are at the individual level, made up of written coursework. Students can take modules involving assessments by presentation, group projects, including group presentations, and a range of new types of writing including policy briefs.
Structure
On this course, you'll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our many partner institutions across the globe. This is a brilliant opportunity to experience living in another country, see how your subject and others are studied there, develop greater confidence and enhanced communication skills, and gain experiences that will help your CV stand out to employers.
Check out our Study Abroad pages to learn more.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
While on your Year Abroad, you'll usually have to study about 50% of your modules in your main area of academic specialism(s) at UEA, and you'll then have opportunities to explore other subjects if you wish (depending on exact topics and modules offered by your host university).
Assessment
On your year abroad you'll undertake assessments in modules in your host university. You'll need to pass the Year Abroad, but your marks do not count towards your final degree classification. In the unlikely event you did not pass the year abroad, reassessment options are available at UEA.
Structure
In your fourth year, you become an expert. You’ll take modules from leaders in their fields. These modules will range from topics on dystopias, weapons of war, climate politics, the Asia Pacific and political activism. With the support of a supervisor, you'll have the chance to conduct your own research on a topic of your choosing. Importantly, you’ll also have the chance to kick-start your career with employability skills, an internship or work placement and specifically dedicated career events.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your fourth year is about specialisation. You’ll write an individual dissertation or group research project, for which you'll select your own topic, question, and methodology, guided by one of our experts. You'll develop other skills such as reflective writing, drafting policy briefings, conducting research papers and submissions to select committees.
Independent Learning
By Year Four, you'll be able to develop, research and present your own ideas on international politics.
How you'll spend your time:
- Teaching: 20%
- Independent Learning: 80%
Assessment
The fourth year gives you the opportunity to write a dissertation or group project. You'll select the topic, research question and methodology, under the guidance of an academic expert. There are also opportunities to partake in activist campaigns, write reflective essays, as well reports and select committee submissions.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Contextual: DD plus C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A level.
Contextual: D plus BC at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year Options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA (Hons) Politics (with a Foundation Year)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB or above.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Our degree in International Relations will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. You'll graduate with a wide range of transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, analysis, and team working.
Popular career destinations for our graduates include the civil and foreign service, local government, the charity sector, international organisations, teaching, business, and the armed forces. This course also provides a good foundation for further studies at Masters level.
We work alongside you to develop your career skills at every stage of the course. UEA Career Central offers guidance, workshops and experiences that enable students to explore possible career pathways and the realities of job progression.
Careers
Examples of careers you could enter include:
- International organisations
- Political careers, such as working in Parliament
- Charities and NGOs
- Think tanks and other research careers
- Civil service
- Armed forces
Discover more on our Careers webpages.