Economics and International Relations

Economics and international relations is a combination that addresses one of the most important questions in understanding the modern world: how do political forces and economic dynamics interact at the global level? Economics provides the analytical frameworks and quantitative tools for understanding how markets work, how resources are allocated, and how economic policy shapes welfare and growth. International relations adds the political dimension, examining how states and international organisations interact, how conflicts arise and are managed, and how global governance structures are created and contested.

Together, the two disciplines give you the tools to understand some of the most complex and consequential questions of our time.

At Aberystwyth University, this three-year full-time BSc draws on two departments with strong reputations for both teaching and research. You will develop a solid understanding of global markets and political systems, exploring questions about trade, financial crises, development, security, and international cooperation that are directly relevant to the world we are living in. The economics element builds rigorous analytical skills and quantitative reasoning, while international relations provides the conceptual and historical context that gives economic analysis its political meaning.

With a typical entry tariff of 104 UCAS points, the programme is accessible to students with strong academic ability and a genuine interest in global affairs.

Graduates from economics and international relations programmes are well placed across a wide range of careers. International organisations, government economic service, the civil service, think tanks, NGOs, financial services, international consultancy, journalism, and development agencies are all common destinations. The combination of economic rigour and international political awareness is particularly valuable in roles that require understanding the interaction of markets and policy across borders.

Postgraduate study in economics, international relations, international political economy, or development is a natural continuation.