International Relations with Business Management with Year Abroad BA (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

The BA(Hons) International Relations with Business Management at QMUL combines the study of global politics with practical business skills, giving you a well-rounded perspective on how the world works. It's perfect for students who want to understand international issues while also gaining hands-on knowledge in business management.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year, you'll get a solid foundation in both international relations and business. Core modules like Fundamentals of Management, Economics for Business, Introduction to International Relations, Global Histories, and Politics in Action will give you the basics you need. You’ll also choose modules such as Thinking Politically or Political Analysis to start thinking critically about politics and society.

Year 2

Year two goes deeper, helping you connect theory to real-world situations. You’ll study modules such as International Relations Theory, Introduction to Social Science Methodologies, Introduction to Marketing and Communications, and Management and Organisational Behaviour. You’ll also pick a research-focused module, like Qualitative Methods or Quantitative Methods, to strengthen your analytical skills and prepare for advanced projects.

Year 3

In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics and independent research. Modules such as International Political Economy, Global Security, and International Relations in Practice let you explore your interests in depth. You’ll also complete a dissertation or project, which is your chance to investigate a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your skills to future employers.

Focus Areas

International Relations Theory, Global Political Economy, Business Strategy, Marketing, Organisational Behaviour, Research Methods

Learning Outcomes

Develop critical thinking on global political issues, apply business management principles, conduct solid research, communicate effectively, and understand the international political and economic landscape.

Professional Alignment

This program equips you for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, multinational companies, or government agencies, giving you a versatile skill set that employers value.

Reputation

Queen Mary University of London is part of the prestigious Russell Group, known for its research excellence and strong graduate employability. Studying here means being part of a university that values global engagement and social responsibility.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Queen Mary, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. In the BA(Hons) International Relations with Business Management program, you’ll gain hands-on experience that connects what you study in class with the real world. From using professional financial tools to working on group projects, internships, and study abroad opportunities, the program is designed to help you develop practical skills and a global perspective that employers really value.

You’ll also benefit from the university’s fantastic facilities and London location, giving you access to international organisations, policy think tanks, and businesses, all within easy reach. Everything you do, from research projects to simulations and collaborative assignments, is aimed at preparing you for the challenges of a career in international relations or business management.

Here’s how that looks in practice:

Bloomberg Terminals & Financial Databases: Work with Bloomberg terminals, Eikon, and Datastream to analyse real-time financial and economic data.
Internships & Insight Weeks: Take part in short-term placements with companies, NGOs, or social enterprises to gain practical workplace experience.
Study Abroad Programs: Spend a semester at a partner university overseas to broaden your global understanding.
Internship Modules: Earn academic credit while working on community projects or civil society initiatives.
Policy Associate Roles: Get hands-on experience with the Global Policy Institute, working on real policy development.
Media Suite Facilities: Use dedicated workstations for research and practical exercises with professional tools.
Library & Research Centers: Access extensive library resources and specialised research centers to support your projects and dissertation work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program leave Queen Mary with a powerful combination of global political insight and practical business skills, making them highly sought-after in a range of careers. Many go on to exciting roles such as Policy Analyst, International Business Consultant, Diplomatic Service Officer, or Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager — all positions where they can make a real impact on global and business issues.

With so many pathways available, here’s how Queen Mary supports your career journey:

Careers and Enterprise Team: Get personalized guidance, internship opportunities, and access to networking events with potential employers.
Industry Connections: Work with organizations like the Global Policy Institute and multinational corporations to gain real-world experience.
Accreditation: The School of Business and Management is AACSB accredited, a mark of excellence recognized globally in business education.
Graduate Success: A strong track record shows most graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing your degree, there are plenty of options if you want to continue studying. You could pursue a Master’s in International Relations, Business Administration (MBA), or Public Policy, or even take a PhD to specialize in research and deepen your expertise. These pathways give you the flexibility to focus on your passions and prepare for leadership roles in your chosen field.