Contemporary History and International Relations Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

At Chichester International Relations is primarily taught with an historical perspective, allowing students to study a succession of twentieth- and twenty-first century subject areas while debating the distinctive theoretical approaches and models of contemporary political analysis. The course also allows students to explore fully connections with the teaching of International Law. The programme at large embraces dimensions of British, European and international experience with courses on contemporary British politics, American history and European movements, studying the rivalries of democracies and dictatorships, civil rights, nationalism and populism and the diplomacy of ‘Soft Power’. It also offers students the opportunity to address the many challenges that are now shaping the twenty-first century, including globalization, the war in Ukraine, terrorism, migration, climate change and public health. The degree also integrates the study of international human rights law and environmental law, including study visits to various institutions, international and domestic in character. The programme seeks to offer students a distinctive range of co-curricular activities. A work placement course in the second year seeks to prepare students for employment in diverse sectors of public life while a visit to the Foreign Office conference centre at Wiston House provides an opportunity to discuss career advancement in the public and private sectors. A final-year dissertation provides students with an opportunity to pursue their own ideas, research and approaches with freedom under personal supervision. On this programme students will gain important skills in analysis, communication and negotiation. We welcome visiting speakers from the worlds of policymaking and think tanks, political affairs and journalism, to provide our students with fresh insights and opportunities. At large, the programme integrates the study of various traditions in political thought with an exploration of recent social patterns and cultural forms in order to develop a sustained analysis of the issues of contemporary political life.