BA (Hons) International Relations Bachelor's degree at Coventry University
BA (Hons) International Relations at Coventry University combines core theory, research and methods, applied practice, and specialist options, culminating in an independent project.
About this course
From war and terrorism, to the role of non-state actors and international competition, International Relations BA (Hons) at Coventry University will empower you to make a constructive contribution to a world that is in constant flux. From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) International Relations is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at Coventry University, based in Coventry Campus. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.
For Social sciences graduates from this provider, 65% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 60% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £30,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Politics & International Relations, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Limited evidence Published sample: 10; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 65% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year one 4 modules
- Power and Authority in a Changing WorldCompulsory30 credits
Module details
This module explores power and order in the modern and historical eras, examining how order is maintained, shaped and contested. You will examine order and power in a comparative manner, helping you understand how different societies have thought about, conceived and executed these concepts.
- Chaos: Catastrophe and ViolenceCompulsory30 credits
Module details
This module introduces you to a wide range of chaos-focused case studies, examining how and why these events occurred, alongside their long-term- and short-term consequences. You will consider the principal actors behind the chaos that affects, and is inflicted upon, society, from civil wars and genocides to environmental change, corruption and geopolitical conflict.
- Identity: Belief, Vision, and ValuesCompulsory30 credits
Module details
Identity is central to how individuals and societies understand themselves. In this module, you will examine how identity has been shaped across different spaces and times, drawing connections between themes, such as bigotry, xenophobia and gender politics.
- Motion: Migration, Trafficking and ColonisationCompulsory30 credits
Module details
Motion is key to understanding how different communities have evolved or collapsed in the past. It is also key to understand how societies and states in the modern era interact and shape policy. In this module, you will investigate the impact of movement, both voluntary and involuntary, on the global community.
Year two 4 modules
- Power Politics: Emerging States in the Global OrderCompulsory30 credits
Module details
This module examines the shifting global power dynamics as emerging states like China, India, Brazil and South Africa challenge the traditional dominance of the UK and Europe. It also explores the causes of power transitions, the implications for global order, and the domestic challenges and foreign policies of emerging states and their international alignments.
- Global Security, Reconciliation, and Human RightsCompulsory30 credits
Module details
Explore how the often-conflicting needs of state security and human security interact in the international arena, gaining insights into key security issues facing the world. This module aims to expose you to the international human rights framework, asking you to examine how communities and democratic institutions can be at the centre of effective solutions to global security threats.
- Managing Disorders: Challenges of Foreign Policy MakingCompulsory30 credits
Module details
This practice-oriented module immerses you in the role of foreign policymakers, requiring you to navigate complex policy challenges and environments that arise from state involvement in international relations. You will be presented with real-world policy issues in each session. The module places a particular emphasis on Europe. You should learn to: evaluate the challenges and complexities of foreign policy within the international system understand how foreign policy connects domestic and globa
- Dark Networks: Crime and TerrorCompulsory30 credits
Module details
This module explores the interconnected world of transnational crime and terrorism, examining how criminal organisations, terrorist networks and corrupt state actors shape global security and governance. Through case studies from Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, you will critically examine the global reach of criminal and terrorist networks and assess the effectiveness of national and international responses to these challenges. You should learn to: analyse how organised crime
Placement year 2 modules
- UK Work PlacementOptional
Module details
This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.
- International Study/Work PlacementOptional
Module details
This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.
Final year 5 modules
- Indispensable Nation: The United States in the 21st CenturyCompulsory30 credits
Module details
How does American society manifest itself in foreign policy? The module will consider debates about race, economy, government, media and security. These will be discussed through historical case studies and contemporary policy debates. Does America want to be great again or simply left alone? This module aims to foster critical perspectives on the US' role in the contemporary world.
- International Relations of the Middle East and South AsiaCompulsory30 credits
Module details
Through a comparative perspective, this module examines the processes of decolonisation and the challenges of post-colonial nation-building in both regions. It looks at the emergence of religious nationalism and extremism and analyses major regional conflicts such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, the India-Pakistan rivalry and the Kashmir conflict, as well as the involvement of external powers such as the US.
- Independent ProjectCompulsory30 credits
Module details
Working independently is a key skill for scholars studying the interconnected fields of history, international relations, politics and security. Being able to explore your own specialist topic in-depth provides an opportunity for you to hone the skills and experiences you gained in years one and two. This module provides you with an opportunity to complete an independent project of your choosing.
- The Politics of the Global SouthOptional30 credits
Module details
This module explores the historical and contemporary political dynamics of the Global South. Through comparative case studies, the module highlights the varied political trajectories of states across Latin America, Africa and Asia, exploring how historical legacies, economic structures and international pressures shape political outcomes.
- The Spy Game: Intelligence and SurveillanceOptional30 credits
Module details
This module critically examines the global and historical impact of intelligence and surveillance, exploring their evolution and contemporary significance. Engage with the ethical dilemmas of intelligence work, examining issues of privacy, governmental transparency, covert manipulation and extrajudicial operations. This module offers a critical perspective on how intelligence practices shape global security, democracy and state power.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course equips you to understand war, terrorism, non-state actors and international competition in a rapidly changing world. You'll usually begin with foundations in political science, international relations theory (realism to constructivism) and research skills. In your second year, a course like this typically moves into comparative politics, examining democracies and autocracies across countries, and international security, covering conflict, deterrence and emerging challenges from cyber threats to climate. You'll also develop quantitative and qualitative research methods. In your final year, you'll pursue specialist options such as global governance, human rights, political theory or public policy, and complete a supervised independent research project on a question you choose.
Who it's for
This course suits those interested in global politics, conflict, governance, and international institutions. Part-time study works well if you're balancing work or other commitments. You'll benefit from a structured approach to understanding how nations, organisations, and societies interact across borders. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed, though strong analytical and writing skills help.
Careers & job market
Across Politics and International Relations courses nationally, 85% of graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating. Of those working, 60% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. National earnings data shows starting salaries (15 months post-graduation) typically fall between £24,000 and £32,000, rising to £27,200–£38,400 after five years. Graduates pursue roles in government, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, law, and the civil service. Actual outcomes depend on your choices, experience, and the wider job market.
University & format
The BA (Hons) International Relations is studied part-time at Coventry University, a University located on Coventry Campus. The course is taught in English and leads to a nationally recognised Bachelor's degree. Coventry University is recognised as a UK degree-awarding body and holds Gold for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.
Entry & how to get in
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by Apply directly to the provider
Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at Coventry University →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Politics & International Relations graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £30,000 | £22,500 – £34,500 | 10 |
| 3 years after | £25,500 | £19,500 – £30,500 | 35 |
| 5 years after | £31,000 | £21,500 – £35,000 | 30 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 10; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in politics & international relations · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Politics & International Relations nationally
National figures for Politics & International Relations graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 10; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Politics & International Relations courses at the same study level.
Compared with 690 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Welfare ProfessionalsSOC 2020 246 · 35% of published destinations · ASHE median £39,047
- Caring personal servicesSOC 2020 613 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £23,668
- Teaching and Childcare Support OccupationDiscover Uni category · 10% of published destinations
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 45; response rate: 65%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Politics & International Relations graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Politics & International Relations graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Government & civil service (FCDO)
- Think tanks
- NGOs
- Public-affairs agencies
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Politics & International Relations graduates.
Is this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
65% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £30,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 7.4 out of 10: NSS 83.3% · in work or study 65%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Coventry University
Social sciences across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Coventry Campus
2,964 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Politics & International Relations right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to Coventry University from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £17,600 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check Coventry University’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with Coventry University and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at Coventry University
Politics & International Relations at other universities
BA (Hons) Drama and Theatre / International RelationsAberystwyth University
BA (Hons) Hanes / Cysylltiadau RhyngwladolAberystwyth University
BA (Hons) International Relations (with integrated year in Industry)Aberystwyth University
BA (Hons) International Relations (with integrated year studying abroad)Aberystwyth UniversityCommon questions
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
Request information about BA (Hons) International Relations
Prospectus, key dates, entry and funding, free to your inbox.