International Relations and History, BA (Hons) With a Year Abroad

At Swansea University, this program doesn’t just teach you about international relations and history in the classroom—you’ll get hands-on experience that brings your studies to life. From spending a year abroad to exploring historical sites and engaging directly with political institutions, you’ll gain practical skills, cultural insights, and professional experience that make you stand out. The program also offers access to excellent facilities, digital resources, and dedicated support to help you thrive both academically and professionally.

Here’s how you’ll get real-world experience:

• Study Abroad Opportunities: Spend a semester or a full year at a partner university in Europe, Asia, or North America, experiencing different cultures and academic approaches firsthand. 

• Internships: Take part in placements such as the National Assembly for Wales Internship, working one morning a week to see politics in action and develop professional skills. 

• Work Placement Programmes: Benefit from Swansea’s SPIN internships or the Week of Work (WOW), connecting with employers and gaining practical experience that boosts your employability. 

• Field Trips and Study Modules: Explore historical sites and real-world locations through department-organized trips, applying your learning outside the classroom.

• Dedicated Facilities: Access specialist study spaces, collaborative areas, and digital resources designed to support your research and learning journey. 

These experiences ensure you graduate not only with strong academic knowledge but also with practical skills, cultural awareness, and professional confidence that employers highly value.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) International Relations and History with a Year Abroad leave Swansea University with a strong mix of analytical, research, and global skills that employers value. You’ll be ready for exciting roles in both the public and private sectors, such as:

• Policy Analyst – shaping policies for governments or think tanks

• Diplomatic Service Officer – representing national interests abroad

• International Development Coordinator – managing projects that make a global impact

• Historical Consultant – advising museums, media, or heritage organizations

Swansea University provides plenty of support to help you turn your degree into a successful career:

• Employability Support: The Swansea Employability Academy (SEA) offers tailored workshops, career fairs, and internships to help you prepare for your chosen path. 

• Graduate Outcomes: 94% of History graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.

• Industry Partnerships: Work with organizations such as the National Assembly for Wales through internships, gaining real-world experience. 

• Accreditation Value: The degree is respected globally, providing strong long-term career prospects.

• Career Outcomes: Alumni go on to roles in education, government, research, international organizations, and events management.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, you can continue your studies with postgraduate degrees in International Relations, History, Political Science, or Public Policy. Swansea University offers a range of master’s and doctoral programs, giving you the opportunity to specialize further and advance your career. The skills gained during your BA also provide a strong foundation for professional qualifications or certifications in related fields.