Program Overview

Prepare for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree in a range of accounting, business, economics, finance, humanities, social sciences and law-related subjects at Queen's University Belfast.

Leading to:- Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in International Relations and Conflict Studies

The programme in International Relations and Conflict Studies provides students with an in-depth, interdisciplinary understanding of contemporary politics, international affairs and conflict situations in their political, historical, cultural, economic and legal dimensions. Dedicated modules introduce students to core concepts and debates in International Relations and the study of conflict. Students will acquire familiarity with the experiences of differing national polities and societies.

International Relations at Queen’s is about more than just armed conflict and insurgency. It also examines such trends as globalisation and considers the challenge from the rise of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the process of European integration, humanitarian issues (such as poverty, development and refugees), and the role of the media in conflict. The academic study of politics is concerned with the sources of conflict, co-operation, power and decision-making within and between societies, how differences are expressed through ideology and organisation, and how, if at all, disagreements and problems are resolved. We look at conflict, co-operation and its origins, dynamics and trajectories, at theories of society, at the value and ethical basis of political ideas and action, and at politics in different national and historical contexts.