International Relations and History, BA (Hons)

Explore History, Human Rights, Peace and Conflict Developing Analytical Skills

Students laughing

Course Overview

International Relations and History explores globalization, human rights, international and regional politics, peace and conflict, political economy, security studies and strategic studies. You will also cover history through subjects including women’s history and gender, memory of war and conflict, and British social history.

Studying this three-year degree course opens up a range of exciting career opportunities by helping you develop skills, which are 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:

Choose a level 3 module, The National Assembly for Wales Internship, and work one morning a week for a semester at the National Assembly in Cardiff

  • Participate in workshops and seminars run by guest speakers
  • Study Welsh Medium modules

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’ll be taught by History research and teaching experts who specialise in the medieval, early modern and modern history of the UK, Europe and the world.

You have the option of a semester abroad in your second year. You can choose to go East and study in Hong Kong, China or Singapore or West and study in North America.

If you prefer to stay closer to home, and want to enhance your student experience and career prospects, The Swansea University Work Placement Programmes offer three work place programmes: Week of Work (WOW); Swansea paid Internship Programme (SPIN) and Santander Universities Funded Placements.

You can also link up with the Swansea Employability Academy (SEA). It provides a network connecting students with employers. You can attend talks and workshops as well as student led networking events.

Your International Relations and History Experience

During your three-year International Relations and History course you will have a personal tutor for any pastoral and academic support you may need, and The Society of Ancient Studies and History student society organises social and cultural events.

The degree structure is flexible, offering a wide-range of specialist modules, including international development, politics and democracy, which allow you to tailor your degree to suit your future career goals. You will be taught by innovative experts who have strong national and international links.

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
  • Law and Public Services

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

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications.

Typical A level Offer

BBB-BCC

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)