International Relations and Sociology BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

The International Relations and Sociology BA at Sussex combines the study of global politics with a deep dive into social structures and inequalities. It’s perfect for curious students who want to understand how societies function and interact on a global scale, tackling topics like migration, human rights, and conflict.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Laying the Foundations

In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in both international relations and sociology. Modules like Introduction to International Relations will introduce you to key political theories, while Introduction to Sociology explores how societies are organised and how people interact within them. These courses give you the tools to think critically about global and social issues.

Year 2: Building Knowledge and Skills

Year two deepens your understanding with more focused topics. Global Political Economy explores how politics and economics influence each other worldwide, and Social Inequality and Social Justice examines the roots and impacts of social disparities. You’ll start to connect theory with real-world issues, sharpening your analytical and research skills.

Year 3: Specialisation and Independent Research

In your final year, you can focus on areas that interest you most. Modules like Global Security and Development and Contemporary Social Theory let you dive deeper, while an independent research project gives you a chance to explore a topic in detail, showing off your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Focus Areas

Global politics, sociology, human rights, migration, social inequality, conflict and security, social justice

Learning Outcomes

Critical thinking, research and analysis, understanding of social and global systems, interdisciplinary approach, policy evaluation

Professional Alignment

The program equips you with the skills needed for careers in international organisations, NGOs, government, and social research, aligning with professional standards in social sciences and international relations.

Reputation

Sussex is widely respected for its social sciences research and teaching, consistently ranking among the UK’s top universities for Sociology and International Relations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Sussex, the International Relations and Sociology BA isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll gain real-world experience that brings your learning to life. From hands-on research projects to field trips and international placements, the program is designed to help you develop practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for a career in global and social fields. You’ll also have access to excellent facilities, digital tools, and support that make learning interactive and engaging. Here’s how your experience comes alive:

Global Work Experience Module: In your third year, you can take a work placement related to your degree, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge in a professional setting. Workshops and guidance help you develop both practical skills and employability.
Research Projects: Explore topics that interest you within international relations and sociology, building critical thinking, analytical skills, and independence.
Field Trips: Visit relevant sites and institutions to see theory in action, gaining real-world insights into global and social issues.
International Placements: Broaden your perspective with placements abroad, experiencing different cultures and global contexts firsthand.
Summer Schools: Participate in summer programs at top universities in Europe or Asia, learning in new environments and enriching your global understanding.
Student Societies: Join societies like the International Relations or Development societies, where you can network, attend events, and deepen your practical knowledge.
Seminar Rooms & Study Spaces: Access dedicated spaces for collaborative work and independent study, perfect for group projects or quiet research.
PC Cluster Room: Use computer labs equipped with the software and tools you need for coursework and research.

All these experiences combine to give you practical skills, global insights, and a real taste of what working in international relations and sociology is like.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Sussex’s International Relations and Sociology BA leave with a strong mix of analytical, research, and communication skills, ready to take on meaningful careers around the world. Many alumni move into roles where they can make a real impact, such as:

Policy Analyst – shaping and evaluating policies for governments or think tanks
International Development Officer – designing programs for NGOs and global organisations
Social Researcher – conducting research to inform social policy
Human Rights Advocate – promoting and protecting human rights

Sussex offers plenty of support to help you get there:

Career Services – personalised guidance, workshops, and resources to help you explore careers and prepare applications
Global Work Experience Module – gain practical work experience in your field with placements, supported by workshops and mentoring.
Alumni Network – connect with past graduates for advice and mentorship

The university’s strong partnerships also give you a head start:

Collaborations with international organisations and local agencies give you chances to work on research and community projects
Access to real-world projects ensures you can apply what you learn in meaningful ways

Graduate Outcomes

92.9% of Sussex graduates are employed or in further study within six months of finishing their degree.
86% of undergraduates complete work experience before graduating.

These stats show just how well the program prepares students for real-world success.

Further Academic Progression:

After your BA, you can take your studies further with postgraduate options, such as:

MA in International Relations – explore global challenges and systems in more depth
MA in Human Rights – focus on protecting and promoting human rights internationally
MSc in Social Research Methods – develop advanced research skills for social science careers.

These paths allow you to specialise, gain deeper expertise, and open doors to careers in academia, policy-making, international organisations, or specialised research roles.