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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Swansea University
The BA (Hons) International Relations and History with a Year in Industry at Swansea University combines the study of global politics with historical perspectives, giving you a rich understanding of how the world works today. It’s perfect for curious students who want to explore international events, uncover historical patterns, and gain real-world experience through a year-long industry placement.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Global Politics and History
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in the essentials of international relations and history. Modules like Introduction to International Relations, Global Politics, and Modern History will help you understand political systems, global interactions, and key historical events—building a foundation for everything that follows.
Year 2: Deepening Knowledge and Analytical Skills
Year two takes you deeper, helping you develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills. You’ll explore courses such as International Political Economy, Conflict and Security, and European History, learning to connect historical events with contemporary global challenges.
Year 3: Year in Industry
Your third year is all about getting hands-on experience. The year-long industry placement allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a professional setting, gain practical skills, and start building a network that could help launch your career.
Year 4: Advanced Studies and Specialisation
In your final year, you’ll tackle advanced modules like International Relations Theory, Global Governance, and Modern British History. You’ll also complete a dissertation on a topic you’re passionate about, showcasing your research skills and deep understanding of your chosen area.
Focus Areas
International Relations, History, Political Economy, Conflict Resolution, European Politics, Global Governance
Learning Outcomes
Critical thinking, research and analytical skills, historical insight, political understanding, professional experience, communication skills
Professional Alignment
This program prepares you for careers in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector, giving you the knowledge and experience that employers value.
Reputation
Swansea University has a strong reputation for employability, with most graduates going on to work or further study within six months of finishing their degree.
At Swansea University, this program isn’t just about lectures and reading—it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for the real world. You’ll have the chance to apply your classroom knowledge in professional settings, explore historical sites, and make the most of the university’s fantastic resources and support networks. From dedicated libraries to industry placements, everything is designed to help you develop practical skills and confidence.
Here’s how students get that practical edge:
Year in Industry: Spend a full year working in a professional environment, gaining real-world experience and building connections in fields related to international relations and history.
Field Trips and Study Visits: Visit historical sites, museums, and institutions to see history and politics in action, bringing your studies to life.
Research Facilities: Take advantage of Swansea’s specialized libraries, archives, and digital resources for in-depth research projects.
Dedicated Study and Collaboration Spaces: Modern study areas and social spaces support both independent work and group projects, helping you learn in a collaborative environment.
Employability Support: Access expert guidance on internships, career planning, and skill development from the university’s dedicated employability team.
These experiences aren’t just about learning—they’re about preparing you for a career, giving you confidence, and helping you stand out in the job market.
Graduates from this program leave Swansea University ready to make their mark in the world. With a strong mix of political insight, historical knowledge, and practical industry experience, you’ll be prepared for careers in government, international organizations, media, or education. Typical roles include working as a Diplomatic Service Officer, a Policy Analyst, an International Development Specialist, or a Public Relations Consultant:
Employability and Enterprise Team: Swansea’s dedicated team helps you plan your career, polish your applications, and ace interviews.
Swansea Paid Internship Programme (SPIN): Gain real-world experience with paid internships, connecting you directly with employers.
Week of Work (WOW): Participate in workshops and networking events to meet potential employers and explore career paths.
Santander Universities Funded Placements: Opportunities to fund work placements in the UK or abroad, giving you a competitive edge.
Graduate Outcomes:
92% of Swansea graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing their degree (HESA 2023).
Swansea ranks 2nd in Wales and in the UK’s top 40 for graduate prospects (Complete University Guide 2026).
Further Academic Progression:
Once you’ve completed this degree, a wide range of postgraduate options are open to you. Many students continue to Master’s programs in International Relations, History, Political Science, or Public Policy, while others pursue research careers through postgraduate research projects. There are also professional development courses available to enhance specialist skills and boost career prospects even further.
India – Year XII Certificate / Standard XII / HSC / Year 12 Certificate (Central & State Boards): Overall score 70%In addition to IELTS scores, we also accept the following school leaving qualifications: CBSE/ICSE/ISC – 70%; Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal – 70%; Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana (2018+), Andhra Pradesh (2018+) – 75%USA – Standardized Tests: ACT 24; AP three exams (4,3,3); SAT 570 Math, 610 Reading & Writing; High School Diploma required; highest scores from combinations accepted.If you do not meet the entry requirements, a Foundation Year is available.Diplomatic Service OfficerPolicy AnalystInternational Development SpecialistPublic Relations ConsultantGovernment AdvisorIntelligence AnalystNGO Project ManagerInternational Trade SpecialistPolitical ResearcherHeritage and Museum OfficerMedia and Communications OfficerForeign Affairs CorrespondentConflict Resolution SpecialistLobbyistAcademic Researcher
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