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The BA (Hons) International Relations at the University of Liverpool gives you the tools to understand and engage with global politics, diplomacy, and international systems. It’s ideal for curious and ambitious students who want to explore how international affairs shape the world and gain skills that open doors to impactful careers.
The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, teaching you to critically evaluate political events, ideas, and institutions, and to communicate effectively in a professional context. Students also have the opportunity to enrich their studies through study abroad programs, gaining international experience that enhances both personal growth and career prospects.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of International Relations
In the first year, you’ll be introduced to the key concepts and theories that underpin international relations. Modules such as Introduction to International Relations, Political Ideas, and Global Politics provide a strong foundation for understanding the global political landscape.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding and Specialization
The second year builds on your foundational knowledge, allowing you to explore areas such as security, development, and international organizations. Modules like International Political Economy, Conflict and Security, and International Organizations help you develop specialized knowledge and critical analytical skills.
Year 3: Advanced Analysis and Independent Research
In the final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics and independent research. The Dissertation in International Relations, alongside modules such as Global Governance and Human Rights and Global Justice, enables you to critically assess contemporary international issues and propose informed solutions.
Focus Areas
International Relations, Global Politics, Political Theory, International Security, Human Rights, Global Governance, International Political Economy, Conflict Resolution, International Organizations, Diplomacy, Global Justice, Comparative Politics, International Law, Development Studies, Political Economy
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
Understand global political systems and international relations theories.
Analyze international issues from multiple perspectives.
Conduct independent research and present findings effectively.
Communicate complex ideas clearly to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Apply theoretical knowledge to practical international challenges.
Professional Alignment
The program prepares students for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, and governmental agencies. Strong industry connections provide opportunities for internships, placements, and real-world engagement in international relations.
Reputation and Employability
The University of Liverpool is known for its excellence in research and teaching. Graduates leave with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional support needed to succeed in global careers. Alumni benefit from a strong network and dedicated career services.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Students can enhance their studies with global experiences that develop cultural understanding and professional skills:
Year Abroad: Spend an extra year studying at partner universities in countries such as Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and the USA.
Semester Abroad: Study for a semester at a partner institution during your second year.
Summer Abroad: Short-term summer programs, including summer schools or research projects, ranging from 1–8 weeks.
The Global Opportunities Team supports you through applications and preparation, with funding options available to help make these experiences accessible. Participating in these programs strengthens employability and provides unique international exposure.
At Liverpool, studying International Relations isn’t just about reading textbooks — it’s about putting theory into practice. You’ll gain real-world skills through interactive group projects, engaging seminars, and research opportunities that let you explore global issues in depth. The university provides fantastic facilities, from well-stocked libraries to digital resources, helping you learn, collaborate, and grow as a future professional in international affairs.
Here’s how you’ll get hands-on experience:
Group Projects & Seminars: Work closely with classmates to tackle real-world political issues and develop teamwork and communication skills.
Independent & Guided Research: Conduct research on global topics, applying theories to practical scenarios under guidance from expert faculty.
Library & Digital Resources: Access an extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online tools to support your studies.
Career Support & Networking: Benefit from dedicated services that help you prepare for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, NGOs, and more.
Student Support Services: Get help with academic, personal, and financial matters to make the most of your university experience.
These experiences ensure you leave Liverpool not only with knowledge but with the practical skills and confidence to thrive in international relations.
Graduating with a BA (Hons) in International Relations from Liverpool opens doors to a wide range of exciting and meaningful careers. The program equips you with the skills and confidence to work in global affairs, policy, and diplomacy. Typical roles graduates move into include:
Diplomatic Service Officer – Represent your country abroad, negotiate international agreements, and help shape foreign policy.
Policy Analyst – Research and advise on policies for governments or organisations to tackle global challenges.
International Development Specialist – Plan and deliver programs that make a real difference in communities around the world.
NGO Consultant – Support non-governmental organisations with strategies and operations to address international issues.
To help you land these opportunities, the University of Liverpool provides excellent support:
Careers and Employability Service – Guidance on CVs, interviews, networking, and job hunting.
Employer Engagement – Career fairs and workshops connecting you with potential employers in international relations.
Internships & Placements – Hands-on experience in organisations relevant to your field.
Global Opportunities Team – Support for study abroad and international internships, giving you a global perspective.
Employment Stats – 92% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, and 83% report their roles are meaningful.
University–Industry Connections – Partnerships and events that link students to professional networks.
Long-Term Value – Skills and knowledge from this degree are recognised internationally, boosting career prospects.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BA, you could continue your studies with postgraduate programs such as the MA in International Relations and Security at Liverpool. This allows you to specialise in areas like conflict resolution, international security, and non-state actor violence — perfect for advancing your career or academic ambitions.
A-level - ABB, but applicants with an Extended Project Qualification can receive a reduced offer of BBB with an A in the EPQ.IB - 32 points overall with no score less than 4 or pass the IB Diploma plus 6,5,5 in 3 HL subjects.GCSE - 4/C in English and 4/C in MathematicsIELTS - 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5TOEFL iBT - 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.India - Standard X and XII with 70–85% in the best four core subjects (including English), excluding non-academic subjects.India - 75%+ for CBSE/CISCE, 80%+ for accepted State Boards in english (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan, MP, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand); must be English medium. Note: NIOS and Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, UP, Uttarakhand boards not acceptedUSA - High school diploma with a GPA of 3.0 plus one of the following: 3 AP exams (4, 4, 4 to 5, 5, 5), or 2 AP exams plus an externally-assessed qualification, or 2 AP exams plus an Honors/College-level class (B+ or higher).First-year university completion with a good GPA may also be considered for entry. Students can take a Year Abroad, Semester Abroad, or Summer Abroad at partner universities worldwide, gaining international experience and boosting employability. Year Abroad Fees - For UK students (including Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Republic of Ireland) the year abroad fee is £1,385 (applies to Year in China); for international students, the fee is £12,050 (applies to year in China)Diplomatic Service OfficerPolicy AnalystInternational Development SpecialistNGO ConsultantInternational Relations ConsultantPolitical Risk AnalystResearcher in think tanksHuman Rights OfficerInternational Organisation Project ManagerForeign Affairs CorrespondentGovernment AdvisorInternational Trade SpecialistGlobal Communications OfficerIntelligence Analyst
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University of Liverpool
