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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of BirminghamThe BA in International Relations with Economics with Year Abroad at the University of Birmingham is perfect for students who want to understand the world from both a political and economic perspective. You’ll explore global affairs, economic trends, and international policy, all while gaining first-hand experience through a year studying abroad.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Global Analysis
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in both international relations and economics. Core modules like Introduction to International Relations and Principles of Economics will give you the essential knowledge to understand global politics and economic systems, while Quantitative Methods for Business and Economics helps you develop practical analytical skills.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding and Specialisation
Your second year is about exploring topics in more depth. You’ll study modules such as International Political Economy, Microeconomics, and Comparative Politics, helping you understand how different political systems and economic policies shape the world. This is also the year where you start focusing on the areas that interest you most.
Year 3: Year Abroad
The third year takes you overseas to a partner university, giving you an amazing opportunity to experience a new culture and academic system. This immersive year broadens your perspective, strengthens your independence, and deepens your understanding of international relations and economics in a global context.
Year 4: Advanced Analysis and Dissertation
In your final year, you’ll tackle advanced modules like International Trade and Global Governance. You’ll also complete a 40-credit dissertation, giving you the chance to research a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Focus Areas
International Political Economy, Comparative Politics, Microeconomics, International Trade, Global Governance
Learning Outcomes
You’ll graduate able to analyse global issues critically, understand economic and political theory, conduct independent research, communicate across cultures, and adapt to international settings.
Professional Alignment
This program prepares you for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, global business, and economic research, equipping you with skills that employers value worldwide.
Reputation
The University of Birmingham is consistently ranked among the UK’s top universities, with the Department of Political Science and International Studies (POLSIS) recognised for its excellent teaching and research. Graduates are highly sought after by leading employers across the globe.
This program isn't just about theory; it's about applying what you learn in real-world settings. From participating in international conferences to engaging in research projects, you'll have numerous opportunities to gain practical experience. The university's strong connections with global institutions and its emphasis on hands-on learning ensure that you're well-prepared for your future career.
Here are some key experiential learning opportunities available to you:
Model NATO Conferences: Participate in prestigious events held in cities like Washington DC, London, and Lisbon. These conferences simulate NATO decision-making processes, providing you with firsthand experience in international diplomacy and policy-making.
Research Internships: Engage in research projects led by experts in the field. These internships allow you to delve deeper into topics of interest, enhancing your analytical and research skills.
Year Abroad: Spend a year studying at a partner institution abroad. This experience broadens your global perspective, exposes you to different academic environments, and enhances your intercultural communication skills.
B-Experienced Internship Programme: Access paid internships with local, national, and international organisations. This programme is designed to help you gain valuable work experience, develop professional skills, and build your network.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Utilise the university's extensive library resources, dedicated study spaces, and digital tools to support your learning and research activities.
These opportunities are designed to enrich your academic journey and prepare you for a successful career in international relations and economics.
Graduates from this program leave university ready to step into a wide range of exciting careers. By combining political science with economics, you’ll develop a unique skill set that’s highly sought after around the world. Typical roles include:
Policy Analyst – advising governments or organisations on policy decisions
International Trade Specialist – working with companies or trade bodies to manage global markets
Diplomatic Service Officer – representing national interests abroad
Economic Consultant – providing expert analysis on economic trends and strategies
Your employability is supported by a host of university services and opportunities:
B-Enterprising: internships, placements, and career workshops to build real-world experience
Model NATO Conferences: hands-on simulations of international diplomacy
Research Internships: work alongside experts on political and economic projects
Strong Industry Links: access to networking and partnerships with leading organisations
Graduate Outcomes: around 86% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months
Accreditation: recognised by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), adding long-term credibility to your degree
Further Academic Progression:
After finishing your degree, you’ll have several options to deepen your expertise:
Master’s Degrees in International Relations, Economics, or related fields
PhD Programs for advanced research in politics or economics
Professional Qualifications in areas like international trade, public policy, or economic analysis
These paths help you specialise further and open doors to higher-level careers in academia, research, or global professional roles.
A Levels - AAB (3 A levels required; General Studies not accepted)IB - 32 points overall with 6,6,5 at Higher LevelGCSE - Mathematics grade 7/A requiredEPQ - If you take the EPQ and meet the entry criteria, you may get an alternative offer one grade lower, plus grade A in EPQ (if Birmingham is your firm choice).IELTS - 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band.TOEFL - 88 overall, with minimum scores of Reading 21, Listening 20, Speaking 22, Writing 21.Indian Standard XII with 80% ISC/CBSE/Maharashtra, 75% West Bengal, or 85% Other State Boards is required.USA - High School Diploma with GPA 3.2+ plus three subject tests (AP, IB HL, Honours, or College-level). ACT 28+ or SAT-R 1350+ can replace one subject test. Maths/English must also be covered.Policy AnalystInternational Trade SpecialistDiplomatic Service OfficerEconomic ConsultantForeign Affairs AdvisorIntelligence AnalystInternational Development OfficerGlobal Risk AnalystPolitical ResearcherPublic Policy AdvisorEconomic Policy AdvisorHumanitarian Affairs OfficerCorporate Strategy AnalystInternational Organisation Officer
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