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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of BirminghamThe BA in International Relations with Year Abroad at the University of Birmingham gives you the chance to explore global politics while gaining real-world international experience. It’s perfect for curious, ambitious students who want to understand how countries interact, tackle global challenges, and make a tangible impact on the world.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundations of International Relations
In your first year, you’ll dive into the essentials of international relations, from understanding different political systems to exploring the culture, society, and language of another country. You’ll also get introduced to research methods, giving you the skills to analyse political events and trends with confidence. Modules like “Foundations of International Relations” and “Global Society and Culture” set the stage for your deeper studies in later years.
Year 2: Global Challenges and Policy Analysis
Your second year builds on this foundation, helping you apply theory to real-world issues. You’ll examine global challenges through modules like “International Security,” “Global Governance,” and “Comparative Politics,” sharpening your analytical skills and giving you the tools to think critically about policy and diplomacy.
Year 3: Year Abroad – Immersive Global Experience
Year three is all about experience. You’ll study abroad, immersing yourself in a different political and cultural environment. This hands-on learning will not only deepen your understanding of global issues but also make you more adaptable, independent, and employable in an international career.
Year 4: Advanced Research and Dissertation
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics like international law, human rights, or international political economy, while completing a dissertation on a topic that truly excites you. This is your chance to showcase your ability to research independently, think critically, and contribute original insights to the field of international relations.
Focus Areas: Global Diplomacy, International Security, Comparative Politics, International Political Economy, Human Rights, Global Governance
Learning Outcomes: Critical Thinking, Research Skills, Policy Analysis, Cross-Cultural Communication, Global Awareness, Independent Research
Professional Alignment: This program prepares you for careers in international relations, government, NGOs, international organizations, and diplomacy. The year abroad gives you an extra edge by developing your global perspective and adaptability.
Reputation: The University of Birmingham is highly respected, ranked #1 in the UK for being most targeted by top employers (High Fliers Research 2024) and #9 for research power in Politics and International Studies (REF 2021). It’s also #15 in The Complete University Guide 2026.
At Birmingham, studying International Relations isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll get hands-on experience that brings global politics to life. From interactive simulations to research projects and real-world placements, the program gives you opportunities to practice the skills you’ll need in an international career. You’ll learn to negotiate, analyse, and communicate effectively while using the University’s excellent resources and networks to their fullest.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:
Model NATO Simulations: Take part in prestigious Model NATO events in Washington DC, London, or Lisbon, experiencing diplomacy and decision-making first-hand.
Year Abroad Opportunities: Spend a year studying at one of over 300 partner universities worldwide, immersing yourself in different political systems and cultures.
Research Projects: Conduct research within the Department of Political Science and International Studies, using facilities like Muirhead Tower and the University’s extensive libraries.
Employability Workshops & Internships: Join career development workshops or internships to gain professional experience and build your network.
Interactive Learning Environments: Engage in seminars, tutorials, and workshops designed to encourage debate, collaboration, and critical thinking.
These experiences help you build practical skills, develop a global perspective, and prepare you to stand out in the competitive world of international relations.
Graduates from this program leave Birmingham ready to step into exciting global careers. With a strong mix of academic knowledge, practical experience, and international exposure, you could find yourself working as a Diplomatic Service Officer, International Policy Analyst, NGO Program Coordinator, or Global Communications Specialist. The skills you develop here—critical thinking, cross-cultural awareness, and strategic decision-making—make you highly sought after by employers worldwide.
The University offers a range of support and opportunities to help you succeed:
Employability Workshops & Internships: Access career development workshops and internships that give you real-world experience and help you build professional networks.
Year Abroad Opportunities: Spend a year at one of over 300 partner universities worldwide, gaining cultural insight and international academic experience.
High Employer Engagement: Birmingham is ranked #1 in the UK for being most frequently targeted by top employers (High Fliers Research 2024), giving graduates a competitive edge.
Industry Partnerships: Participate in Model NATO simulations in Washington DC, London, and Lisbon, putting your diplomacy skills into practice.
Strong Academic Reputation: The program is informed by cutting-edge research, with the University ranked #9 in the UK for Politics and International Studies research power (REF 2021).
Excellent Graduation Outcomes: Around 82.5% of graduates achieve First or Upper Second Class honours, reflecting strong academic and professional preparation.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA, you can continue your studies through master’s programs in International Relations, Global Governance, or International Political Economy, pursue PhD research within the Department of Political Science and International Studies (POLSIS), or take professional development courses in diplomacy, international law, or conflict resolution. These pathways give you the flexibility to deepen your expertise and advance your career in global affairs.
TOEFL - 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing.IELTS - 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any bandIB - 32 points overall with 6,6,5 at Higher LevelEPQ - 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).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.GCSE/IGCSE – Maths and English grade C/4+Diplomatic OfficerPolicy AdvisorInternational Development SpecialistResearch AnalystRoles in government agencies and civil servicePositions in international organisations such as the United NationsOpportunities in non-governmental organisations (NGOs)Careers in global security and intelligence analysisPublic affairs consultantRoles in media and journalism related to international affairsPositions in business and consultancy with a global focusFurther opportunities in academia and teaching
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