International Relations with Global Development

Explore the global issues shaping our world. Discover how nations interact through politics, conflict, diplomacy, and cooperation to tackle global challenges.

Make sense of a changing world
Why do conflicts happen? Who holds power on the global stage? How do international organisations respond to today’s biggest challenges? Understand the forces shaping our future – and discover the role you could play in influencing it.

Explore the ideas, events, and power structures shaping global politics. On this course, you’ll develop the confidence to question assumptions, debate complex issues, and build your own informed perspective.

As part of this course, you’ll:
• Explore how global development confronts the ethical dilemmas facing the distribution of power and resources



• Examine theories of development, poverty and economic crises, and their relevance to the social and political challenges of the 21st century



• Look at the global issues shaping our world. Discover how nations interact through politics, conflict, diplomacy, and cooperation to tackle global challenges.



• Investigate why some of the world’s biggest issues – including security, poverty, debt, and famine – persist, and examine how international cooperation seeks to address them



• Discover how diplomacy, negotiation, and international policy can influence peace, security, and global change



• Study global inequality, shifting power between nations, and the changing balance of influence around the world



• Explore how defining moments such as the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, globalisation, and emerging security threats continue to influence today’s international landscape



• Discuss contemporary issues, challenge different viewpoints, and build the confidence to defend your ideas



• Tailor your degree through optional modules, specialist pathways, and your own dissertation topic



Find out more

International perspective
Develop a global outlook that goes beyond the headlines. Learn to see global events from multiple perspectives, understanding not just what’s happening, but why it matters and what could happen next. You'll explore how international organisations such as the World Bank (WB), World Trade Organisation (WTO), and United Nations (UN) influence global affairs, while examining both their successes and limitations.

Research expertise
Learn from academics whose research influences debates on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, international activism, and global development. Their expertise brings fresh perspectives and the latest global developments directly into your teaching.

Build your future potential
Complete a volunteering placement of your choice, gaining valuable experience while developing your understanding of citizenship and society, as well as the skills employers are looking for.

Why study the BA International Relations course (with pathways) at Leeds Beckett University?
- Choose from specialist pathways in global development, politics, or human rights, with flexibility to change direction after Year 1


- Build real-world experience by completing volunteering and placement opportunities


- Hear from leading political voices through our Politics & International Relations Festival, with previous speakers including Sir Keir Starmer, David Miliband, and Caroline Lucas


- Learn from research-active academics working on global development, peacebuilding, and international activism


- Develop the knowledge and transferable skills for careers tackling today’s global challenges

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).