History and International Relations BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Loughborough University

Program Overview

This degree blends history and international relations to give you a deep understanding of how the past shapes the world we live in today. It’s perfect for curious thinkers who want to explore global politics, historical change, and how societies interact on a local and international level.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1:
You’ll start by building a solid foundation in both history and international relations. Core modules like Academic Foundations in International Relations, Politics and History, The Atlantic World: The Americas, Europe and Africa since the 15th Century, and What is History? introduce you to key concepts, debates, and research skills. Optional modules such as The Contemporary World Arena let you explore modern global issues and understand the complex forces shaping today’s world.

Year 2:
In your second year, you’ll dig deeper. Modules like Theories and Methods in Political Research and Nation and Empire: Sources of British History develop your analytical and research abilities. Optional units such as Modern China in a Global Perspective and African States and Nations: Before and After Colonialism broaden your perspective on how different regions have evolved politically and historically. This year helps you start focusing on areas that interest you most.

Final Year:
The final year is all about independence and specialization. You’ll complete a Dissertation, choosing a topic that truly excites you, and can pick from advanced modules like War in the 21st Century, International Conflict Management, or The Asia-Pacific in Global Politics. It’s your chance to explore your passions, conduct in-depth research, and get ready for your career or further study.

Focus areas:
“Modern and global history, international relations theory, conflict and security, regional studies (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Middle East, US), research methods, and independent dissertation work.”

Learning outcomes:
“You’ll learn to think critically about historical and international questions, use and evaluate sources, apply theory to real-world issues, conduct independent research, communicate clearly, work in teams, and adapt your skills across sectors and cultures.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While this program doesn’t have formal professional accreditation, the research, analysis, communication, and critical thinking skills you develop are highly valued by employers worldwide. Optional placement or study abroad opportunities add real-world experience.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Loughborough is known for excellent employability outcomes. For example, it’s ranked 6th in the UK for International Relations by the Guardian University Guide 2026, and History sits in the UK top 15 according to the Complete University Guide 2025. Graduates leave well-equipped to enter a variety of careers globally.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Loughborough, you don’t just sit in lectures — you actively learn by doing. From day one, you’ll develop practical skills through hands-on research, group projects, workshops, and field trips, all supported by excellent campus facilities. Whether it’s digging into archives, collaborating with peers in seminars, or exploring global politics in real-world contexts, the programme ensures you gain experiences that go beyond textbooks.

Here’s how you’ll get involved:

Placement or year abroad: You can choose a work placement or study abroad year, giving you real-world experience in a professional or international setting.
Field trips and seminars: Participate in interactive field trips, workshops, and group sessions that bring history and international relations to life.
Library and digital resources: Access the Pilkington Library and campus computer labs for independent research, digital archives, and developing critical research skills.
Independent research & dissertation: In your final year, complete a dissertation on a topic you’re passionate about, applying your research and analytical skills in a meaningful way.
Language and digital tools: Take optional language modules (French, German, Spanish, Mandarin) through the University Language Centre, boosting your communication and intercultural skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this programme opens doors to exciting careers such as policy analyst, international development officer, diplomatic service assistant, or research consultant. With a degree that combines history and international relations, you’ll leave Loughborough with the analytical, research, and communication skills that employers really value:

Here’s how Loughborough supports your future career:

Careers Network: Get one‑to‑one coaching, attend workshops, access job and internship listings, and practice interviews — all designed to prepare you for the real world.
Employment & salary outcomes: Graduates in history-related fields typically earn around £27,500 after three years, with many entering dynamic roles in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Professional experience: Optional placement or study-abroad years give you hands-on experience and real-world exposure, making your CV stand out.
Degree value: Ranked 6th in the UK for International Relations by the Guardian 2026, your joint honours degree signals quality, credibility, and versatility to employers worldwide.
Graduate destinations: Past students have gone on to roles such as Account Executive, Business Development Executive, Research Analyst, and Ministerial Correspondence Officer, among many others.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to keep studying, you could pursue a master’s (MA/MSc) or research-focused route (MPhil/PhD) in areas like global security, diplomacy, public policy, heritage management, or advanced history research. This degree gives you the foundation to move seamlessly into postgraduate study both in the UK and internationally.