International Relations BA (Hons)

Undergraduate

Empty indoor amphitheatre with benches on green carpet

This course is designed for visionary thinkers eager to make a global impact. It is ideal for those aspiring to work with organisations like the United Nations or Amnesty International.

Year of entry

2025-26 2026-27

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

L250

Start date

September 2026

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

The need for global co-operation has never been greater. As we face challenges like conflict, competition for resources and climate change, the future depends on international collaboration. This degree is designed to prepare you for that future.

Global perspective: gain a truly global perspective that goes far beyond traditional Western viewpoints. Study regions such as the United States, Middle East, South Asia, Africa and Latin America.
Project-based learning: work on complex problems, create tangible solutions, and develop essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Assessments are designed to replicate the type of work and tasks carried out by international relations course graduates. By the end of the course, you should have a portfolio of experience to showcase your expertise and real-world readiness.
Simulations and dynamic learning: take part in immersive crisis simulations like war games and Model United Nations.² Learn how to design your own crisis simulations and deploy them in real-world corporate, government and non-governmental organisation settings.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2025

Why you should study this course

Industry-focused skills: the skills and knowledge you learn on this course should appeal to a variety of employers, from media outlets to multinationals, the civil service to the European Parliament, NGOs to think tanks.
Beyond the written word: build a broad portfolio throughout your studies, from writing op-eds and policy papers to producing short documentary films and other industry-relevant material.
Academic community: work closely with our teaching staff, who will provide a welcoming learning community.
Employability: in a globalised world where companies increasingly do business across national boundaries, benefit from your in-depth understanding of the international political, commercial, social and cultural landscape.

20th

Coventry University ranked No.20 for International Relations

Guardian University Guide 2024

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

History BA (Hons)
History and Politics BA (Hons)
International Relations BA (Hons)
Politics BA (Hons)
Politics and International Relations BA (Hons)

Modules

Order: Power and Authority in a Changing World – 30 credits

This module explores power and order in the modern and historical eras, examining how order is maintained, shaped and contested. You will examine order and power in a comparative manner, helping you understand how different societies have thought about, conceived and executed these concepts.

Compulsory

Chaos: Catastrophe and Violence – 30 credits

This module introduces you to a wide range of chaos-focused case studies, examining how and why these events occurred, alongside their long-term- and short–term consequences. You will consider the principal actors behind the chaos that affects, and is inflicted upon, society, from civil wars and genocides to environmental change, corruption and geopolitical conflict.

Compulsory

Identity: Belief, Vision, and Values – 30 credits

Motion: Migration, Trafficking and Colonisation – 30 credits

Motion is key to understanding how different communities have evolved or collapsed in the past. It is also key to understand how societies and states in the modern era interact and shape policy. In this module, you will investigate the impact of movement, both voluntary and involuntary, on the global community.

Compulsory

Modules

Power Politics: Emerging States in the Global Order – 30 credits

This module examines the shifting global power dynamics as emerging states like China, India, Brazil and South Africa challenge the traditional dominance of the UK and Europe. It also explores the causes of power transitions, the implications for global order, and the domestic challenges and foreign policies of emerging states and their international alignments.

Compulsory

Global Security, Reconciliation, and Human Rights – 30 credits

Explore how the often-conflicting needs of state security and human security interact in the international arena, gaining insights into key security issues facing the world. This module aims to expose you to the international human rights framework, asking you to examine how communities and democratic institutions can be at the centre of effective solutions to global security threats.

Compulsory

Managing Disorders: Challenges of Foreign Policy Making - 30 credits

This practice-oriented module immerses you in the role of foreign policymakers, requiring you to navigate complex policy challenges and environments that arise from state involvement in international relations. You will be presented with real-world policy issues in each session. The module places a particular emphasis on Europe.

You should learn to:

evaluate the challenges and complexities of foreign policy within the international system
understand how foreign policy connects domestic and global politics
analyse foreign policy decision-making processes and their implications
develop critical thinking and decision-making skills by engaging with real-world policy issues.

Compulsory

Dark Networks: Crime and Terror – 30 credits

This module explores the interconnected world of transnational crime and terrorism, examining how criminal organisations, terrorist networks and corrupt state actors shape global security and governance. Through case studies from Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, you will critically examine the global reach of criminal and terrorist networks and assess the effectiveness of national and international responses to these challenges.

You should learn to:

analyse how organised crime groups, terrorist organisations and illicit financial networks operate, adapt and collaborate across borders
examine how financial crimes, including money laundering and illicit funding, sustain organised crime and terrorism while undermining global financial stability
evaluate the effectiveness of national and international strategies in disrupting dark networks, tackling corruption and countering organised crime and terrorism.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final years of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement– 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

Modules

Indispensable Nation: The United States in the 21st Century – 30 credits

How does American society manifest itself in foreign policy? The module will consider debates about race, economy, government, media and security. These will be discussed through historical case studies and contemporary policy debates. Does America want to be great again or simply left alone? This module aims to foster critical perspectives on the US’ role in the contemporary world.

Compulsory

International Relations of the Middle East and South Asia – 30 credits

Through a comparative perspective, this module examines the processes of decolonisation and the challenges of post-colonial nation-building in both regions. It looks at the emergence of religious nationalism and extremism and analyses major regional conflicts such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, the India-Pakistan rivalry and the Kashmir conflict, as well as the involvement of external powers such as the US.

Compulsory

Independent Project – 30 credits

Working independently is a key skill for scholars studying the interconnected fields of history, international relations, politics and security. Being able to explore your own specialist topic in-depth provides an opportunity for you to hone the skills and experiences you gained in years one and two. This module provides you with an opportunity to complete an independent project of your choosing.

Compulsory

Optional modules

Choose one from the following two:

The Politics of the Global South – 30 credits

This module explores the historical and contemporary political dynamics of the Global South. Through comparative case studies, the module highlights the varied political trajectories of states across Latin America, Africa and Asia, exploring how historical legacies, economic structures and international pressures shape political outcomes.

The Spy Game: Intelligence and Surveillance – 30 credits

This module critically examines the global and historical impact of intelligence and surveillance, exploring their evolution and contemporary significance. Engage with the ethical dilemmas of intelligence work, examining issues of privacy, governmental transparency, covert manipulation and extrajudicial operations. This module offers a critical perspective on how intelligence practices shape global security, democracy and state power.

Optional

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Teaching on this course looks at global issues, helping you build an international perspective and understand the changing world around us. You'll learn through hands-on activities and real-world examples, using the same approaches professionals use in the field. It’s about creating experiences that allow you to apply knowledge, gain confidence and feel prepared for your future career.

Teaching methods may include:

crisis simulations such as Model United Nations and historic emulations, allowing you to apply knowledge to simulated real-world settings
interactive lectures that help to make learning relatable, relevant and engaging
immersive workshops and seminars which help to develop key skills that will empower you to pursue a wide range of careers
regular ‘course hours’ that will allow you to meet your lecturers and course director and build a sense of community within your subject area.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. You will normally study one 30-credit module at a time. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary depending on your year of study and selected modules. During your first year, you can expect 12-15 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course incorporates new and innovative assessment methods aligned with current industry standards, providing you with practical, real-world skills designed to advance your professional readiness and career prospects.

Assessment methods may include:

writing exercises such as essays, reports, policy reviews and briefings
live simulations and reflective journals
individual and group presentations
curation and public communication
podcasts, academic posters and other media projects.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Humanities field trip

Humanities students explore the value of their field trip to Sicily, on an educational and personal level.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

Requirement	What we're looking for
UCAS points	112
A level	BBC
GCSE	GCSE English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards
BTEC	DMM
IB Diploma	29 points
Access to HE	The Access to HE Diploma. Plus GCSE English at grade 4 / C or above.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area).

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year	Not available
EU	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year with EU Support Bursary 2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £16,800 per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £16,800 per year	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,800 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Students will benefit from studying on our well-equipped, modern campus⁴.

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George Eliot building

Named after one of the leading writers of the Victorian age, the George Eliot building is the city centre home of English studies at Coventry University. Mingle with like minded students, cross the Edible Garden campus to relax at the Hub, or take the few minutes walk to immerse yourself in books at the Lanchester library.

Library

The library offers a team of dedicated academic liaison librarians who provide specialist help and support. You’ll also have access to subject specific databases of journal articles related to criminology and forensics.

Academic support

No matter which degree you’re studying, you’ll find a lot of support on campus, including the Centre of Academic Writing and sigma, which offers mathematics and statistics support.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Throughout the course, you should develop a broad range of highly valued skills to reflect the changing and dynamic needs of industry, including exceptional communication, project planning, critical thinking and analysis, crisis management, problem-solving, and powerful presentation and listening skills.

On successful completion of the course, you should be a globally and interculturally aware graduate ready to make a dynamic difference in the world. You could find yourself working in the following areas:

International organisations, like the EU and UN.
Police and intelligence services
Human resources
Local authorities
Banking and finance
NGO, international security and charities.

Where our graduates work

Some of our previous graduates are now employed in the private sector, ranging from marketing, human resources, banking, and finance to media, and across the public sector in education, the civil service, police forces, local authorities, charities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and international organisations.

Our students work for organisations including: Control Risks; Geneva Peace Building Platform; Capita; KPMG; Birmingham City Council.

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Discover Phoenix+

Phoenix+ brings you together with other students to learn, experience and develop essential knowledge and skills. Whatever destination you choose, it's about preparing you for life after university.

Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students will be able to apply for this course through UCAS from September 2025. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
CASU011

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and membershipsons

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2025/2026 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2026/2027 contract will apply for the 2026/2027 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.