Program Overview

International Relations is about how we tackle global challenges. World politics stands at a fascinating but difficult historical juncture, one that as political beings, we all need to understand, explain and, in part shape. With the relative decline of the ‘West’, the emergence of new powers and actors, and the increasingly complex and intertwined nature of local, national, regional, international and global problems, ‘international politics’ is entering a new era.

The degree in International Relations with integrated Foundation Year offers students the opportunity to study the concepts, practices, policies, histories and regions that make up international politics as a discipline and to explore the ways in which, all these factors are undergoing a radical transformation in the twenty-first century.

This course with integrated foundation year is the perfect option if you do not have a sufficient or relevant academic background but want to access this highly sought-after degree scheme. The Foundation Year will provide you with a solid base from where you can go on and enjoy the full undergraduate degree in your second year.

Why study International Relations at Aberystwyth?

• You will be taught in the world’s first department of international politics, founded in 1919 after the end of World War I to help people to understand the world.
• You will be guided and mentored by lecturers who are enthusiastic, committed in providing you with an outstanding and dynamic learning environment.
• During the duration of your course, you will have the opportunity to participate in our renowned ‘Crisis Games’ - a three-day role playing exercise in political, economic and diplomatic manoeuvre, developing negotiation and communication, critical thinking, team work, and problem-solving skills.
• We operate a prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme, enabling you to gain valuable experience working alongside an MP (House of Commons, Westminster) or an AM (Welsh Assembly, Cardiff) for a period of 4-6 weeks during the summer. During this time you will write reports and speeches, undertake research projects, and respond to constituency issues. There may be further opportunities for you to get involved in elections and various international issues.
• We also run an International Student Exchange Programme based on close links with carefully selected universities in Europe, Asia, North America and Australia, offering you an excellent opportunity to expand your academic and social horizons by spending a part of your university experience abroad.
• We are home to Interstate, the oldest student-run international politics journal in the United Kingdom, providing a unique opportunity for you to publish your work (particularly advantageous if you wish to progress to postgraduate study) or gain valuable experience working as part of the editorial team.
• Stimulating student societies foster a strong sense of community within the department, offering a programme of political debates, visiting speakers, conferences and workshops, alongside numerous social activities such as an annual ball.
• Last, but not least, we offer a number of degree schemes and modules taught entirely or partially through the medium of Welsh. Check out the module tab for further information.