International Relations and Economics BA (Hons)

Take a transdisciplinary approach to the study of world affairs and global issues, and explore international politics to shed light on the root causes of todays political, societal, economic, and environmental issues, whilst developing strong applied skills in the application of economic analysis to business issues.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE 


• Combining two subjects boosts your employability and gives you the opportunity to develop knowledge and expertise in two subject areas, making you a more versatile graduate



• Develop problem-solving skills and a can do attitude that will help you go into a wide range of job roles including in politics, campaigning, think-tanks, NGOs, charities, civil or diplomatic services, or a range of Business-related roles



• You’ll develop strong applied skills in the application of economic analysis to business issues



• Opportunities to go on international study trips will add an extra dimension to your studies



HOW YOU’LL LEARN

Real world learning is at the heart of our Economics programmes, with the focus on solving genuine business problems as well as engaging with external experts to discuss economic concepts. You’ll learn through a compelling combination of:


- interactive lectures


- expert speakers


- problem-solving seminars


- group work


- group discussion


- workshops


- case study analysis


- computer lab work


- practical analysis


Our teaching methods on International Relations will be varied, interactive and engaging. They include:


• Online and face-to-face lectures, sometimes involving guest speakers



• Seminars that encourage lots of debate and discussion



• Work experience and real projects



• Self-directed study



YOUR CAREER

When you have completed this degree, you will be well-informed about the major global issues of our time as well as Economic theory and practice, and have a range of skills that employers really value, particularly:


- negotiation and conflict resolution


- being able to analyse evidence objectively, including using basic data science techniques


- communication


- problem-solving


- cultural awareness


You can put these skills to good use in a range of high-level careers, such as in politics, journalism, campaigning, think-tanks, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations), charities, the civil or diplomatic services, inter-governmental institutions, management, finance, leadership, and consultancy.

STUDY OPTIONS: 

On the Joint Honours programme, there are different pathways of study available. You can often study both subjects equally or choose to major in a subject. Please view the course page on our website for more information on pathways. 

We're a Top 10 UK University* in the heart of England, with great transport links to London and the rest of the UK.

Ranked 2nd in the UK for employability and course quality*, the University of Derby offers expert, industry-relevant teaching, state-of-the-art study spaces, award-winning accommodation, and a welcoming, inclusive community.

(*Uni Compare 2026)