School of Government & International Affairs | BA International Relations

BA International Relations at Durham University

[email protected]

Take a journey through different regions, political systems and contemporary world events to develop a deep understanding of the fast-changing global political landscape.

Our BA in International Relations will give you a grounding in global politics and so much more. Taking a research-led approach you’ll develop an understanding of many of the relationships that shape our complex and interconnected world. Issues that range from regional studies and global security to the balance of power and social norms.

Study is structured around three main themes: Political Thought, Political Institutions and International Relations. Following an introduction to these themes, you’ll begin to tailor the course to your interests and aspirations with a selection of optional modules. These include areas such as Security, Interdependence, Liberty, Comparative Studies of Political Economies, Democratic Practice and The Role of Global Politics in the Environment.

You can further tailor your course by applying to add a work placement, or an international dimension with an overseas study year in locations such as Boston College in the USA, the University of British Columbia in Canada, the University of Hong Kong or the National University of Singapore.

The School of Government & International Affairs is home to a number of research centres and institutes. This innovative work is fed into the BA, so you can be sure the curriculum is informed by contemporary political debate.

The critical analytical and research skills that underpin the course, coupled with an understanding of global current affairs and the connections between countries, governments, NGOs and the business sector, will put you in a strong position to pursue a career in areas including social policy, international finance, business, journalism and the charity sector.

Our courses are informed by both academic researchers and our links with industry. This specialist expertise develops the knowledge and skills that our students need to succeed in a competitive job market.

We offer a series of employment-related events which include talks from visiting speakers who explore the range of careers open to politics and international relations students and offer advice about applying for jobs. We also host a regular Civil Service Fast Stream event in which Durham alumni give first-hand advice about how to excel in the recruitment process.

Graduates are equipped with an academic and practical skill set that will take them into a wide range of fields including local and national government, newspaper and broadcast journalism, the charity sector, business and finance, publishing, law, manufacturing, teaching and academia and the armed forces. They have gone on to achieve great success in the political arena and beyond, with roles including Chief Operating Officer for the GB Equality and Human Rights Commission, Head of Defence Inquests and Disclosure in the Ministry of Defence and Political Officer in the British Embassy Mogadishu.

Durham University: Inspiring the Extraordinary

We believe that inspiring our people to do outstanding things at Durham enables Durham people to do outstanding things in the world.

A globally outstanding centre of teaching and research excellence, a collegiate community of extraordinary people, a unique and historic setting - Durham is a university like no other!