International Relations

Study global issues such as poverty, debt and famine, and how we can address the challenges faced by humanity from an international relations perspective.

You'll choose a pathway to study:


• BA (Hons) International Relations



• BA (Hons) International Relations with Global Development



• BA (Hons) International Relations with Politics



• BA (Hons) International Relations with Human Rights



Gain an international perspective by exploring how nations interact on the global stage.

As part of this course, you’ll:


• Critically explore global issues such as security, poverty, debt and famine



• Understand how we can address the challenges faced by humanity from an international relations perspective



• Examine global inequalities, the rise of the superpower nations and what power looks like at a global level



• Understand how major developments, including the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, globalisation, changing global power relations and the emergence of new terror threats and social movements have shaped the world



• Evaluate theories of international relations and diplomacy and analyse the ideas, ideologies, policies and institutions that form the foundations of global politics



• Analyse what happens during conflict, and the challenges faced by states and world organisations trying to preserve peace and security



• Undertake a volunteering placement giving you work experience in the field



• Blend critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills



*You can apply to study the single honours degree or one of the combined awards listed below. You'll be able to apply direct to UCAS for the combined awards using the UCAS codes provided.

BA (Hons) International Relations with Global Development (UCAS code L258)

BA (Hons) International Relations with Politics (UCAS code L254)

BA (Hons) International Relations with Human Rights (UCAS code L253)

International perspective
You’ll gain experiences and insight that will enhance your world view and help build your network of international contacts. Studying the roles of international organisations such as the World Bank, the World Trade Organisation and the United Nations will give you an understanding of their working processes and limitations. You’ll be encouraged to think critically and develop ideas that might help them to achieve their goals.

High profile speakers
Our annual Politics & International Relations Festival and Peace Lecture have previously attracted guest speakers such as Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, former Labour MP David Miliband, and former Green Party co-leader Caroline Lucas.

Research expertise
Our academic team are research-active and are involved in international activism and global development.

Building your future potential
As a student in the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, you'll be encouraged to think about your future career right from the start of your learning journey. Information and advice about relevant future career options will be built into the first year of your degree. During your second and third years of study, you'll be able to choose modules with live brief learning challenges (real life projects designed by employers) and work placement opportunities.

You’ll also carry out a volunteering placement of your choice, enriching your concept of society and citizenship, and developing your skills for employment.

Why study the BA (Hons) International Relations course at Leeds Beckett University?


• Pathways available, with the option to change direction after Year 1



• Fantastic placement opportunities



• Guest lectures, including annual festival of Politics and International Relations



• Volunteering opportunities

Curiosity needs thinkers, makers, and dreamers. It needs you!

Leeds Beckett believes that when unlike minds come together, incredible things happen. That’s why they don’t just teach; they collaborate, challenge and inspire.

Their courses are meticulously designed, combining practical experience through work placements with a vibrant location at the heart of one of the UK’s largest student communities. Boasting a top 10 UK ranking for both course quality and student life (Uni Compare 2026) and a prestigious five-star QS rating, LBU sets the standard for excellence.

The university prioritises student wellbeing and stands among just seven universities nationwide to earn the University Mental Health Charter Award - proof of their unwavering commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing.

All of this is why 98% of Leeds Beckett students and graduates would recommend studying at the university to a friend (Uni Compare, 2026 reviews).