International Relations BA (Hons)
Course Overview - International Relations BA (Hons)
International relations examine the role of states, international alliances, non-governmental organisations and multinational companies in an increasingly globalised world.
While studying our BA in International Relations, youll have the opportunity to focus on global politics and world affairs. Our objective is to challenge the preconceptions that you’ll bring to the subject and to actively encourage a critical attitude to the nature of the political and the international. You can explore exciting topics such as the politics of the climate crisis, the situation in the Midd...
International relations examine the role of states, international alliances, non-governmental organisations and multinational companies in an increasingly globalised world.<br/><br/>While studying our BA in International Relations, youll have the opportunity to focus on global politics and world affairs. Our objective is to challenge the preconceptions that you’ll bring to the subject and to actively encourage a critical attitude to the nature of the political and the international. You can explore exciting topics such as the politics of the climate crisis, the situation in the Middle East, the world of international espionage, and the growing significance of China in the world. You’ll also have the opportunity to work on an extended research project, which could involve a dissertation, a grand challenge project, or a simulation-based group activity. The last of these presents the chance to research deeply a particular country which you will then represent at a Model United Nations Conference.<br/><br/>As well as working with our expert and specialist academic staff, you’ll have the opportunity to attend a lecture series hosted by the University on International Relations and International Law, which has featured high profile speakers from institutions such as NATO and the UN Security Council. This will give you access to first-hand insights and experiences from past and present practitioners in the field.<br/><br/>International relations graduates find careers in a wide range of fields and varied job roles. These include diplomatic posts, working for non-governmental organisations, positions within the intelligence services, and employment within international organisations such as the UN.<br/><br/><strong>Distinctive Features of the Programme</strong> <br/><br/><strong>Study current global issues</strong> – Choose modules ranging from cyber security and nuclear politics to climate change and feminism.<br/><br/><strong>Look to the future and the past</strong> – Explore international relations in a historical and a contemporary context.<br/><br/><strong>Worldwide career opportunities</strong> – Recent graduates have found roles in global development, international business, diplomacy, government intelligence and journalism.<br/><br/><strong>Professional insights</strong> – Take part in visits from high profile speakers from the UK Government, NATO and the UN Security Council. <br/><br/><strong>Bilingual study</strong> - Participate in innovative and high-quality Welsh-medium provision available through a selection of modules.
Course Information
1 option available
Some courses vary and have tailored teaching options, select a course option below.
Course Details
Information
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
3 Years
Start Date
28/09/2026
Campus
Main Site - Cardiff
Application Details
14 January
Application deadline
Provider Details
Codes/info
Course Code
310Q
Institution Code
C15
Points of Entry
Year 1
Entry Requirements
UCAS Tariff
Not Accepted
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
32
30
32-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
DDM
DMM
in any subject.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
You must have or be working towards: - English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
Extended Project
A
For applicants taking the EPQ qualification, an A in the EPQ can be recognised to lower the entry requirements by a single grade. For example, an AAB offer would be “AAB from 3 A-levels or ABB from 3 A-levels and a grade A in the EPQ”. Please note that any subject specific requirements must be met.
A level
A,B,B
B,B,C
T Level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (last awarded Summer 2024)
The Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in place of one A-level at the A-level grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements.
WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales will be accepted in lieu of one A level at the A level grades specified, excluding any subject specific requirements.
Search Undergraduate Courses at Cardiff University
Find more courses from Cardiff University with our undergraduate course search.
Fees and funding
| Region | Costs | Academic Year | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Channel Islands, Republic of Ireland | £9,790 | 2026/27 | Year 1 |
| EU, International | £24,700 | 2026/27 | Year 1 |












































.jpg)





















,-Bristol.jpg)
