International Relations

Why study International Relations at Aberystwyth University?

• We offer students high-quality teaching on a wide range of modules (around 20 to choose from in years 2 & 3), an intellectually stimulating and friendly environment with a strong sense of community.
• On this course, you will learn about the concepts, policies and histories that make up international relations as a discipline.
• You'll learn to assess global events from a range of perspectives and to look ‘behind the headlines’ to discover the deeper dynamics which drive the actions of countries, leaders and activists.
• You can study political dynamics like nationalism or the global economy, learn about development and colonial legacies, consider different perspectives like liberalism or gender, or analyse key security problems.
• In addition, you have the opportunity to study international institutions or regions like the Middle East, Africa or the Americas.    
• As well as honing your academic skills, our modules will equip you with the know-how you’ll need for life after university, like writing blogs and policy briefs, giving presentations and using your creativity to solve problems.
• We run role-play simulation modules every year which develop skills in negotiation, persuasion, collaboration and teamwork – all essential in the world of politics.
• Our graduates go into a wide range of career pathways, such as civil service, journalism and diplomacy, or working for political parties, NGOs or international organisations like the UN, defence, as well as graduate pathways in business, industry, education and the public sector.   
• In addition, we offer a number of modules taught entirely or partially through the medium of Welsh.

Opportunities – IR students at Aberystwyth can:

• Apply for our prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme: a three to four week internship which enables you to gain valuable experience working alongside an MP in Westminster) or an MS in Cardiff.
• Join our renowned ‘Crisis Games’ – a role-playing exercise in political, economic and diplomatic manoeuvres which will develop your negotiation and communication, critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills. A highlight of the course.
• Spend a semester abroad studying in many destinations, across North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific.
• Get involved and feel part of our departmental community through activities, like the regular ‘Roundtable’ discussions on key global events, Interpol Society activities, the student journal Interstate, Student Diversity Group and our popular social events.

Our Staff

Lecturers in the Department of International Politics are all research active and qualified to PhD level, and most also have a PGCHE.

Employability is embedded within all courses provided by us. Our degrees provide a solid foundation for a vast array of careers across a range of sectors. In a rapidly shifting global economy, our graduates are adaptable and able to draw on a range of transferable skills, ensuring that they are always in demand.

The skill sets include:

• effective problem solving and creative thinking skills
• information technology skills
• the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• time-management, organisational skills
• communication skills both written and oral
• self-motivation and self-reliance.

What opportunities are there for me after I complete my degree?

Our graduates have found work in the following areas:

• development sector
• local and national politics
• the Civil Service
• Government research
• social research
• the third sector, eg NGOs
• international organisations
• journalism.

What opportunities are there for me whilst studying at University? 

Employability is embedded across our teaching. We teach our students to aim for the career they want, not the job that they can get.

• Students can apply for our prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme, a 3-4 week internship for second years working alongside an MP in Westminster or an MS in Cardiff.
• We are also 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.

What work experience opportunities are available to me while I study?  

Find out about the various opportunities that our Careers Service offers. Enhance your employability prospects with our Year in Employment Scheme.

I love the International Relations course, because it's a subject that attracts a wide range of people from around the UK and internationally, meaning you encounter a wide range of people and opinions. The seminars allow for great discussion and learning, and the lectures themselves are interesting with just as interesting lecturers! Roxy Taylor

The Department of International Politics has provided me with a new-found understanding of the world through modules on issues surrounding concepts of globalisation and the lives of women in the Third World. With experts in so many fields it is great having such an approachable set of tutors. My three years here at Aberystwyth have been educational as well as enjoyable and I would recommend studying here to anyone. Hannah Mitchell

Great lecturers, great building, great people on the course! Matthew David Bold