International Relations - BA (Hons)
Lancaster University
Student rating
This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni.
( 4.2) View reviews

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Qualification

Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

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Location

Main Campus

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-26

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Duration

3 Years

Course info

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Qualification

Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Location

Main Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-26

Duration

3 Years

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Qualification

Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Location

Main Site

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-26

Duration

3 Years

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Subjects

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Politics
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A level
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Access to HE Diploma
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International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
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Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
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Course info

International Relations at Lancaster equips students with a unique understanding of global dynamics and the analytical tools necessary to navigate complex international issues. You will explore global challenges, foreign policy, security threats, and international cooperation and rivalry, while developing critical thinking skills, practical expertise, and the ability to evaluate different perspectives on contemporary global events.Guided by academics who shape national and international policy, ...Read more

International Relations at Lancaster equips students with a unique understanding of global dynamics and the analytical tools necessary to navigate complex international issues. You will explore global challenges, foreign policy, security threats, and international cooperation and rivalry, while developing critical thinking skills, practical expertise, and the ability to evaluate different perspectives on contemporary global events.Guided by academics who shape national and international policy, you’ll emerge inspired and confident to tackle the challenges of our times.


Why Lancaster?

- Be inspired by influential academics who shape policy at local and global levels, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of international relations from an expert perspective- Apply for one of our annual internships, giving you the chance to work with external organisations on live projects- Develop a critical insight into an ever-changing global landscape and the complexities of diplomacy- Learn how to ask difficult questions with confidence, whilst building on transferable skills such as debating, presentation skills, and writing policy briefs


Tackling the big questions

How do AI and cyber technologies change our understanding of politics, security and war? How are emerging powers altering the global order? Can international institutions address global poverty and environmental crises? How is the continued rise of China reshaping the global balance of power? Is the Global South an invention of the North?Taught by influential, inspiring academics who shape policy at global and local levels, International Relations at Lancaster will give you the skills necessary to address these questions and tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our times. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of contemporary international relations from top experts in the field, and acquire the necessary skills for a career in local and international politics.


A global perspective

Renowned for our critical thinking in the arts, humanities and social sciences, International Relations at Lancaster offers a unique blend of intellectual depth across a range of disciplines, and real-world application. This course will explore the interconnectedness of global and local issues, enabling you to understand the broader context of political events.You will cover key themes such as:- Global governance and international institutions: Evaluating the effectiveness of organisations in addressing global challenges, such as the regulation of AI- Environmental challenges and sustainability: Tackling the urgent issue of climate change, resource scarcity, and sustainable development- War, (in)security, and conflict: Analysing the dynamics of contemporary conflicts, the evolving nature of warfare, and challenges to international security- Cyber threats and disinformation: Analysing the challenges posed by cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and the erosion of trust in digital information- A changing global order: Exploring the rise of new powers, the decline of the old guard, and the implications for global governance


Prepare for your future

You will master research and data analysis techniques, vitally important for many competitive global careers. Driven by cutting-edge research and current global developments, hands-on projects and collaborative experiences that mirror the challenges of the professional world, this course will equip you with the problem-solving and critical thinking skills to tackle global issues.You will have the opportunity to boost your prospects further by applying for one of the annual internships offered by Lancaster’s Richardson Institute for Peace Studies.


Important Information

Key stats

  UCAS
WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2025 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
66/279
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
22nd
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
10th
What students say
S
sophia
17 Dec 25

Lancaster University is a great place to study because its smaller campus and city size create a strong sense of community that is often harder to find at larger UK universities...Read more

E
Emily
14 Dec 25

Best aspects are the university facilities - the library and lecture theatres, along with various study spaces are great. worst - sometimes the union can let down students (such..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
Modules (Year 2)
Modules (Year 3)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

Exam type

A level

A level:

ABB Grades / Points required

UCAS Tariff:

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Access to HE Diploma:

D30M15 Grades / Points required

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme:

32 Grades / Points required

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016):

DDM Grades / Points required

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if you live within Domestic. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

To be confirmed

£24,700 per year

This information comes from UCAS, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: fees do vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

This is the fee you pay if you are an International student. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

This is the fee you pay if you are an International student. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

UCAS/IDP Connect

Latest reviews

Latest International Relations reviews

International Relations
International Relations
S
sophia
17 Dec 25
Politics and International Relations (Placement Year) - BA (Hons)
Lancaster University is a great place to study because its smaller campus and city size create a strong sense of community that is often harder to find at larger UK universities....
Read more
E
Emily
14 Dec 25
History and International Relations (Placement Year) - BA (Hons)
Best aspects are the university facilities - the library and lecture theatres, along with various study spaces are great. worst - sometimes the union can let down students (such...
Read more
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How International Relations students rated:

Student rating
( 4.1) 34 reviews
5 star
30%
4 stars
56%
3 stars
9%
2 stars
5%
1 star
0%

How all students rated:

Student rating
( 4.2) 1,675 reviews
5 star
38%
4 stars
51%
3 stars
10%
2 stars
1%
1 star
0%
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Uni info

Lancaster University
Lancaster University , Lancaster

Lancaster University is a highly rated, research-intensive university, ranked within the top 15 in three major UK league...

Student rating
( 4.2) View reviews
CUG ranking
10th
Lancaster University
Lancaster, Bailrigg Lancaster Lancashire LA1 4YW United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Lancaster  1.7 miles away

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