International Relations and History with a Year Abroad BA (Hons)

International Relations and History explores big questions of state formation, globalisation, human rights, security studies, or peace and conflict and asks how past events shape today’s world. You will learn about theories of International Relations and real-world case studies alike, such as wars and revolutions, decolonisation, or migration in the past and present. You will also cover history through subjects including women’s history and gender, memory of war and conflict, and race and racism.

Studying this degree course opens up a range of exciting career opportunities by helping you develop skills such as working with primary sources, applying concepts to real-world scenarios, and interpreting complex events, which are all highly valued by employers.

During your International Relations and History course you will have a personal tutor for any pastoral and academic support you may need. The student societies Politics and International Relations (PAIR), the Society of Ancient Studies and the History student society organise a range of social and cultural events in addition to talks from practitioners.

The degree structure is flexible, offering a wide range of specialist modules, including global justice and human rights, the Global South in IR, Shaping Planet Earth, Global Environmental Politics, Empire and Nationhood, or Covert Wars, which allow you to tailor your degree to suit your future career goals.

Highlights of the degree include:


• The Parliamentary Studies module that is delivered in collaboration with the House of Commons;



- the experiential learning module ‘Global Summit Simulation’ in which you can try out your negotiation skills and work on solutions for selected global challenges;


• Researching Politics and IR or Researching History – project based learning experiences in which you conduct research on topical questions and present your findings to your peers.



This programme includes opportunities to undertake Semester or Year Abroad, spent in locations such as Hong Kong, China or Singapore or North America, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience. This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Kickstart a bright future at Swansea University.

With around 300,000 residents, Swansea isn’t the biggest city this side of the Severn, but she’s got a big personality with a cost of living that’s refreshingly affordable compared to most other UK cities. Whether you like to explore the outdoors, take in a bit of culture, or anything in between, Swansea has something for everyone.

As a student at Swansea University, you'll benefit from a friendly, inclusive community and opportunities to gain skills that last a lifetime. Alongside first-class resources that include a mock court room, indoor athletics centre & virtual reality lab, you'll learn from leading academics, in a supportive and nurturing environment.

With 120 societies, 50 sports clubs and 12 months of must-see events, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy between lectures.

Whoever you are and whoever you want to be, you'll find yourself right at home in Swansea.