International Relations

International relations examines how states, international organisations, non-governmental actors, and individuals interact in a world where no single authority governs behaviour across borders. It asks why wars occur and how they end, how cooperation on global challenges is achieved, how power is distributed in the international system, and what norms and institutions shape the behaviour of states and other actors in world politics. From climate change and nuclear security to migration, trade, and human rights, the problems that international relations addresses are among the most consequential of our time.

This three-year full-time BA at the University of East Anglia immerses you in the discipline with the aim of producing graduates who not only understand global politics but can contribute to shaping it.

You will develop rigorous analytical skills and a thorough grounding in the major theoretical traditions that international relations scholars use to interpret world events, from realism and liberalism to constructivism and critical theory. The programme combines this theoretical depth with attention to empirical cases and contemporary developments, asking you to apply conceptual tools to real situations in global politics. The University of East Anglia's emphasis on combining rigorous thinking with real-world application gives the degree a practical as well as intellectual orientation.

A typical entry tariff of 120 UCAS points reflects a broadly accessible admissions standard. Graduates from international relations programmes at UEA pursue careers in the diplomatic service and foreign affairs, international organisations, non-governmental organisations and civil society, think tanks and policy research, journalism, international business, the civil service, conflict resolution, and development. Many continue to postgraduate study in international relations, security studies, global governance, or international law.