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The BA (Hons) International Relations at Nottingham Trent University is your gateway to understanding how the world works. It’s perfect for anyone curious about global affairs, covering topics like diplomacy, security, and international ethics while helping you build the skills to think critically and make sense of complex global issues. You also have the option to take a placement year, giving you real-world experience and a head start in your career.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundations of International Relations
Your first year lays the groundwork, introducing key theories and historical events that shape global politics. Modules such as Introduction to International Relations and Global Politics help you explore how nations interact and the forces that influence world events.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding
In year two, you’ll dive deeper into specific areas like security and European politics. Modules like Security Studies and Contemporary European Politics develop your ability to analyze current global challenges and understand the complexities of international relations.
Placement Year (Optional): Real-World Experience
After your second year, you can take an optional placement year. This gives you hands-on experience in an international organization, NGO, government agency, or business, helping you develop practical skills, build professional networks, and enhance your employability.
Year 3: Specialization and Research
In your final year, you’ll focus on areas that interest you most, choosing optional modules and completing a dissertation. Modules such as Justice, Ethics, and Democracy and Understanding Foreign Policy allow you to explore topics in depth, building expertise and confidence for your future career.
Focus Areas:
Security Studies, European Politics, Global Ethics, Foreign Policy Analysis
Learning Outcomes:
Critical Thinking, Research Skills, Ethical Reasoning, Policy Evaluation
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The course prepares you for careers in international relations, diplomacy, policy, and research, equipping you with skills that meet industry expectations even though formal professional accreditation isn’t specified.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
NTU is known for strong graduate employability, with many students moving into relevant jobs or further study shortly after finishing their degree.
At Nottingham Trent University, learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom—you’ll get hands-on, real-world experience that brings global politics to life. From placements and study abroad opportunities to collaborative projects and research, the program is designed to help you develop the skills employers value most and gain confidence navigating international issues.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:
Work Placements: Take a one-year paid placement with an organization in the UK or abroad, giving you firsthand experience in international relations.
Study Abroad: Spend part of your second year at one of NTU’s partner universities worldwide, broadening your global perspective and cultural understanding.
Collaborative Projects: Work on group projects that simulate real-world international scenarios, building teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Access to Facilities: Make the most of the Boots Library for research, the Students’ Union, and the Global Lounge for networking and events.
Digital Tools: Learn to use digital platforms and data visualization tools that are essential for research and analysis in international relations.
Research Opportunities: Carry out independent or guided research projects under expert faculty supervision, giving you hands-on experience in investigating global issues.
These experiences ensure that you graduate not just with knowledge, but with practical skills, confidence, and a professional network that can help launch your career.
Graduating with a BA (Hons) in International Relations from Nottingham Trent University opens up a wide range of exciting career paths. Our graduates move into roles in diplomacy, policy analysis, international development, and consultancy, showing how versatile and globally relevant this degree is. The program also equips you with practical skills and networks to make your transition into the professional world smoother:
Career Opportunities:
Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: Represent your country internationally, negotiate agreements, and build diplomatic relations.
Policy Analyst or Researcher: Examine global policies and provide insights to guide governmental or organizational strategies.
International Development Specialist: Work with NGOs or government agencies on development projects worldwide.
International Relations Consultant: Advise organizations on global strategies, international partnerships, and risk management.
Support Services at NTU:
Employability Team: Receive tailored career guidance, CV workshops, and interview coaching to ensure you’re job-ready.
NTU Global: Get help exploring international career opportunities and support for global placements.
NTU Alumni Network: Connect with graduates for mentorship and insider insights into career paths.
Graduate Outcomes:
Employment Rate: A high proportion of NTU graduates move into work or further study soon after completing their degree.
Salary Expectations: Graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, with strong growth potential as experience builds.
University–Industry Partnerships:
NTU collaborates with international organizations to offer internships and real-world project opportunities.
Industry experts help shape course content, ensuring what you learn is relevant and practical.
Long-Term Accreditation Value:
NTU degrees are globally recognised, boosting employability worldwide.
The curriculum is regularly updated to meet international standards and industry needs.
Graduation Outcomes:
Graduates have pursued careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, and global business.
Many continue to postgraduate study in areas like international relations, law, or business to specialise further.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you could continue with:
MA in International Relations: Deepen your knowledge of global issues and research skills.
MA in International Relations and Security Studies: Focus on global security and conflict resolution.
MA in International Relations and Development: Explore international development and sustainable growth strategies.
Professional Development: Gain certifications in project management, international law, or enhance language skills to boost career prospects.
By choosing NTU’s BA (Hons) International Relations, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re preparing for a dynamic, impactful career on the global stage.
A-level - BBC Equivalent to112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualificationsIELTS - 6.5 with minimum of 5.5 in each componentTOEFL iBT (Home Edition accepted): 79 overall with minimum 18 Reading, 17 Listening, 20 Speaking, 18 Writing (Essentials/MyBest not accepted).India - Minimum 65% overall in four relevant subjects at the higher secondary (12th) level.India - English language: CBSE and select state boards (Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala) with a minimum score of 70% (70/100) or 80% (160/200).USA - High School Diploma with a minimum 3.0 GPA, along with acceptable standardized tests or qualifications such as SAT (1090), ACT (23), AP exams, IB Diploma or certificates, College Credit, Dual Enrollment, and Honors Classes.Placement and Study Abroad Fees - UK and international students pay £1,850 for a placement year, while a study abroad year costs £1,385.DiplomatForeign Service OfficerPolicy AnalystResearcherInternational Development SpecialistInternational Relations ConsultantCivil ServantPolitical Risk AnalystHumanitarian Aid CoordinatorIntelligence AnalystNGO Project ManagerInternational Trade AdvisorCommunications and Public Affairs OfficerGlobal Policy AdvisorSecurity and Conflict Resolution Specialist
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Nottingham Trent University
