Are you intrigued by how politics shapes our everyday lives? The influence of power and global affairs? International Relations at Keele covers world politics and the challenges associated with global order. Our wide-reaching expertise and our broad approach to the discipline will teach you how to interpret global, social, political, and economic interactions. Develop your skills and expertise and become a change maker for future generations. A degree in International Relations from Keele prepares you for a career of your choice in politics, business and beyond.

Course overview

Explore how global relationships impact everyday lives and how the international order is being challenged and redefined. Studying International Relations at Keele explores the complexities of world politics, examining personal, local, and global aspects of power, order, conflict, violence, and justice.

Our aim is to develop your expertise as a critical thinker, with insights into contemporary challenges, preparing you to become a future change maker. You'll study the politics and international relations of the West as well as the global majority world, investigating critical issues ranging from power and inequality, to race and decolonisation, environmental change, security and conflict, foreign policy, gender, activism, war and more.

Our curriculum is designed to be engaging and interactive, with opportunities to put theory into practice in real-world applications including crisis simulations, model United Nations, activist strategy development, funding proposals, and policy report writing. You will also have opportunities to network with practitioners in the field, discuss your ideas, and develop your analytical, research, and practical skills ready for various careers.

We support your academic and professional growth, with year-long and team-taught modules catering to diverse learning styles, and varied assessments to build and enhance your expertise. The course is built around three main themes: Understanding World Politics in Year 1, Making a Difference in World Politics in Year 2, and The Future of World Politics in Year 3. You can also opt to broaden your horizons by studying abroad, learning a language, or undertaking a work placement year, enriching your learning and career prospects.

By the end of your degree, youll have a deep understanding of global politics and how it shapes our future. You'll be equipped with the confidence, knowledge, and skills needed to make a significant impact in an ever-changing world.

Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Your future career

Enhance your employability

With a worldwide outlook, having a degree in International Relations will enhance your career prospects in range of different areas based on your subject expertise and understanding of global issues. You will have gained key transferable skills alongside your subject knowledge, with the ability to work well with others as well as independently.

With the support of staff and academics, you will be equipped with strong, adaptable skills, ensuring you are ready for employment.

You may wish to pursue a career in:

Journalism

Business

Politics

Civil Service

Policing

Public Relations

Media

Charities and NGOs

Education

Further study

Duration of study: 3 years / 4 years with international or placement year