International Relations and Development with Foundation
International relations and development is a combination that connects the study of how the world is organised politically with a focus on why so much of it remains poor and unequal, and what might be done about it. International relations provides the conceptual tools to understand how states, international organisations, and non-state actors interact, including how power, norms, and institutions shape global affairs. Development studies examines the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality across the world, interrogating the policies, institutions, and historical forces that have shaped radically different outcomes for different countries and populations.
At the University of Westminster, this four-year, full-time programme begins with a foundation year, making it accessible to students who need additional preparation before the main degree. The foundation year provides a supported academic transition before you move into the full honours programme. As you progress, you will study the major theories of international relations and development, the institutions through which global governance is attempted, and the political economy of the global system.
The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, giving you professional and international experience that deepens your understanding of the real-world contexts you are studying academically. The typical entry tariff is 88 UCAS points.
Graduates from international relations and development programmes are well placed for careers in NGOs, international development agencies, the United Nations and related bodies, the foreign office and diplomatic service, government departments working on aid and development, journalism covering international affairs, and research and policy organisations. The combination of political and developmental understanding is particularly relevant to organisations working to address poverty, inequality, and conflict. Postgraduate study in international relations, development studies, or humanitarian affairs is a common next step.