BA International Relations / History

At Aberystwyth, studying International Relations and History isn’t just about lectures and essays — it’s about living the subjects you study. You’ll step into the shoes of diplomats, researchers, and historians, gaining practical experience that helps you stand out in the real world. The program blends traditional academic study with immersive, hands-on learning — from working in Parliament to handling original manuscripts in world-class archives.

Here’s how you’ll gain that real-world experience:

• Parliamentary Placement Scheme: Spend a few weeks working alongside a Member of Parliament or a Member of the Senedd. You’ll help research issues, draft reports, and see how decisions are made at the heart of politics — an unforgettable experience that connects theory with real-life governance.

• Crisis Games: Take part in one of Aberystwyth’s most exciting traditions. Over several days, you’ll join other students in simulating an international crisis — making quick decisions, negotiating deals, and handling media pressure. It’s the perfect way to build confidence and teamwork while seeing how global politics unfolds under pressure.

• Student-run Journal Interstate: You’ll have the chance to publish your own work or join the editorial team of this respected undergraduate journal. It’s a great way to sharpen your writing, editing, and analytical skills — and have your name on a real academic publication.

• Heritage and Archive Placements: For history students, Aberystwyth’s partnerships with the National Library of Wales, Ceredigion Archives, and Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Wales open doors to incredible hands-on experiences. You could help preserve historical documents, assist in cataloguing collections, or learn about heritage management directly from professionals.

• World-class Library and Research Access: The National Library of Wales, right next to campus, is one of the UK’s great research libraries. Combined with the university’s Hugh Owen Library, it gives you access to rare manuscripts, archives, and digital databases — a dream for any student of history or politics.

• Research Centres and Seminars: You’ll be part of a thriving academic community. The departments host research events, visiting speakers, and seminars through centres like the Centre for Media History — giving you a chance to network and learn from leading academics and professionals.

• Field Visits and Society Activities: The History and International Politics Societies organise trips to heritage sites, guest lectures, and an annual residential conference at the historic Gregynog Hall. These experiences make learning social, memorable, and deeply connected to the real world.

Graduates from International Relations and History at Aberystwyth go on to exciting and wide-ranging careers — from government and diplomacy to heritage, teaching, and journalism. This degree builds the kind of skills that employers truly value: critical thinking, research, communication, and the ability to understand complex global issues. Many alumni have found success in roles such as civil servants, heritage officers, policy analysts, or teachers, while others pursue work in media, law, or research.

And what makes Aberystwyth stand out is how actively it supports your next steps — with dedicated services, strong graduate outcomes, and genuine professional connections:

• Career Support from Day One: The university’s Careers Service helps you shape your goals from the start. You’ll have one-to-one career guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive placements and internships — all designed to help you confidently step into your chosen field.

• Strong Graduate Results: Around 85% of students are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, and unemployment rates are consistently low (around 5%). Average salaries start around £25,000, with many graduates progressing to higher-earning roles within a few years.

• Industry & Public Sector Connections: Aberystwyth works closely with government departments, heritage organisations, and NGOs. Students often gain experience through opportunities like the Parliamentary Placement Scheme, or heritage internships at the National Library of Wales and Ceredigion Archives, located right on your doorstep.

• Long-Term Career Value: A joint degree in International Relations and History opens doors to many sectors. Whether you want to work in politics, education, policy, media, or heritage, you’ll graduate with versatile skills that keep your options open and your career future-proof.

• Graduate Outcomes: The History & Welsh History department has achieved a 99% employment or further study rate in previous surveys — proof that Aberystwyth graduates are in high demand for their analytical ability and global perspective.

Further Academic Progression:

If you love learning and want to keep going after your BA, Aberystwyth offers some great postgraduate options. Many students continue with a Master’s in International Relations, History, Global Development, or Politics, while others move into teacher training, law conversion, or heritage management programmes.

And for those drawn to research, your dissertation experience prepares you perfectly for MPhil or PhD study, whether you want to explore global diplomacy, historical change, or cultural identity in even greater depth.