Modern History and International Relations

Modern history and international relations is a combination that bridges the study of the recent past and the analytical frameworks used to understand how the world is organised today. Modern history gives you the tools to examine events, processes and patterns from the nineteenth century to the present, developing the ability to work with primary sources, construct evidence-based arguments, and understand how the past continues to shape contemporary politics and society. International relations provides the theoretical architecture for understanding how states, institutions and non-state actors interact on the global stage.

At the University of Keele you will explore key historical events and periods alongside the major concepts and debates in international relations, from the development of the state system and the two world wars through to the Cold War, decolonisation and the challenges of contemporary global governance. You will develop skills in communication, analysis and research, learning to question established narratives and to think critically about the causes and consequences of historical and political change. The programme runs over three years full time and includes a sandwich year in industry, a year abroad and work placement opportunities, giving you professional experience and international exposure alongside your academic study.

Graduates of this combination move into careers in the civil service, foreign affairs, international organisations, think tanks, policy research, journalism, non-governmental organisations, education and the charitable sector. The combination of historical depth and international analytical thinking is valued by employers who need people capable of understanding complex situations with nuance and communicating clearly about them. Postgraduate study in modern history, international relations, security studies, public policy or diplomatic history is a natural further step for those seeking specialist or research-focused careers.