International Relations and History, BA (Hons)

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Course Overview

International Relations and History explores big questions of state formation, globalisation, human rights, security studies, or peace and conflict and asks how past events shape today’s world. You will learn about theories of International Relations and real-world case studies alike, such as wars and revolutions, decolonisation, or migration in the past and present. You will also cover history through subjects including women’s history and gender, memory of war and conflict, and race and racism.

Studying this degree course opens up a range of exciting career opportunities by helping you develop skills such as working with primary sources, applying concepts to real-world scenarios, and interpreting complex events, which are all highly valued by employers.

Why International Relations and History at Swansea?

Based at our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, our International Relations and History course at Swansea University is highly regarded by students and employers:

Studying International Relations and History at Swansea you can:

  • Select the final year British Parliamentary Studies module, where you will be taught by our specialist academic staff and Members of the Houses of Parliament.
  • Participate in workshops and seminars run by guest speakers.
  • Publish your excellent papers in Populo – the student journal, or become part of the editorial team

International Relations at Swansea is ranked:

  • Top 15 in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2026)

History at Swansea is ranked:

  • 94% of History graduates are in employment and/or study, or doing other activities such as travelling 15 months after leaving Swansea University (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025)

You will be taught by expert academics across both disciplines. Our History team includes specialists in medieval, early modern and modern history across the UK, Europe and the wider world. Alongside this, you will learn from internationally connected scholars in international relations, global politics, intelligence and security studies, giving you a broad and engaging learning experience.

To enhance your student experience and strengthen your career prospects, you can take part in the Swansea University Work Placement Programmes, including the Swansea Paid Internship Programme and Santander Universities Funded Placements

You can also connect with the University’s Employability team, which provides a network linking students with employers. Through this service you can attend talks, workshops and student led networking events that help you gain confidence, build your connections and develop your professional profile.

Your International Relations and History Experience

During your International Relations and History course you will have a personal tutor for any pastoral and academic support you may need. The student societies Politics and International Relations (PAIR), the Society of Ancient Studies and the History student society organise a range of social and cultural events in addition to talks from practitioners.

The degree structure is flexible, offering a wide range of specialist modules, including global justice and human rights, the Global South in IR, Shaping Planet Earth, Global Environmental Politics, Empire and Nationhood, or Covert Wars, which allow you to tailor your degree to suit your future career goals.

Highlights of the degree include:

  • The Parliamentary Studies module that is delivered in collaboration with the House of Commons;
  • the experiential learning module ‘Global Summit Simulation’ in which you can try out your negotiation skills and work on solutions for selected global challenges;
  • Researching Politics and IR or Researching History – project based learning experiences in which you conduct research on topical questions and present your findings to your peers.

This programme includes opportunities to undertake Semester or Year Abroad, spent in locations such as Hong Kong, China or Singapore or North America, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience. This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

The optional Foundation Year for this programme can give you an exciting introduction to higher education, setting you up with the skills, confidence, and knowledge that you will need to be successful in your undergraduate degree. It’s ideal if you need a little more support after further education, or are returning to education after a gap. Following successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will progress onto Year 1 of your BA.

International Relations and History Employment Opportunities

Students on this course typically develop excellent oral and writing skills and you will also learn to develop your ideas in a wide range of formats, along with strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Our graduates are truly international and enter careers in a wide range of sectors including:

  • Education
  • Government and Politics
  • Recruitment
  • Media and Public Relations
  • Heritage and Museums
  • Business
  • Business and Management

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

International Relations and History, BA (Hons)

International Relations and History with a Year Abroad, BA (Hons)

International Relations and History with a Year in Industry, BA (Hons)