International Relations and Diplomacy (with optional Hague Exchange) BA (Hons)
Interested in international affairs, diplomatic practice and global politics? This course could be your passport to a career where you can contribute to peace-building initiatives worldwide.
This degree gives you a head start in securing a rewarding career within international organisations, diplomatic communities, governments, the civil service, national and transnational institutions
You’ll learn how to interpret, explain and forecast political, social and economic developments affecting different countries
You can broaden your horizons in the legal capital of the world – by choosing a year-long study exchange at The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands
We offer work-based learning opportunities; previous study visits have included trips to the United Nations Office in Geneva, the British Foreign Office and other international institutions
We equip you with vital skills in arbitration, conflict resolution and diplomatic practice alongside a deep knowledge of current international affairs
Our degree is truly interdisciplinary, and our emphasis on diplomacy is unique; you’ll engage with a broad spectrum of subjects throughout your study
“This course offers the perfect mix because it isn’t solely learning about world politics but covers diplomacy too. It’s a very rare course that includes trips to the UN and different embassies, as well as a chance to study abroad in The Hague.” Tyra Tucker Current International Relations and Diplomacy graduate.
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Stimulating, topical and challenging, the BA (Hons) International Relations and Diplomacy offers fascinating perspectives on how to promote good relations between people, communities and countries, equipping you for careers where you can play your part in international peace-building initiatives.
The degree reflects the growing need to resolve intra-national and international conflicts through diplomacy rather than the use of military force. You will therefore learn about the role of international political institutions in promoting democracy, world peace, political stability and development. You will also deepen your understanding of the varied diplomatic exchanges that take place between governments and inter-government institutions.
Throughout, you will develop your intellectual flexibility, confidence and critical skills by exploring key themes such as advocacy, democracy, human rights, social policy and international security in the context of global conflict, peace and international law.
Study overseas
One of the most exciting aspects of the BA (Hons) International Relations and Diplomacy is the option to spend the second stage of your programme studying at The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS) in the Netherlands.
At THUAS you will join a community of 25,000 students – representing 135 nationalities – at what is an internationally acclaimed institution. The year-long exchange will broaden your educational perspectives and provide an impressive addition to your CV.
The legal capital of the world and the third largest city in the Netherlands, The Hague has a long tradition of welcoming and inspiring students from overseas. In total, the city has a population of more than 35,000 students, including 4,500 international students.
Hands-on learning
Our emphasis on real-world learning helps you take the theory from the page and translate it into practice in ways that will significantly enhance your employability. Thanks to our strong links with institutions such as the UN and UNITAR, and our contacts in the wider diplomatic community, we can offer you unique opportunities for work-based learning and experience within the field.
As part of the course, there is the opportunity to undertake specialist training in diplomacy and diplomatic practice, giving you real experience of working in this vitally important field. You could complete vocational training with international institutions, governmental and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), or charities which are involved in promoting good relations internationally.
Fieldtrips are a highlight of the degree too. At Stage 1, all students have a national trip included in their fees. Past trips have included London which has given the opportunity to visit organisations such as embassies and the Foreign Office to see how they work with diplomats, ambassadors and other government representatives around the world.
Further experiences include a week-long visit to Geneva, taking in the United Nations Office and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). This visit is included in the fees for Derby-based Stage 2 students.
Alternatively, if you choose to spend your second year in The Hague, you will visit the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.
Expert teaching
Our enthusiastic, research-active lecturers are passionate about all aspects of international relations and diplomacy and are keen to share their knowledge and experience with you.
They have an established record of publication and scholarship in areas such as diplomatic practice, international security, arbitration, international dispute resolution, international institutions, human rights and public international law.
In addition, you will benefit from a vibrant programme of lectures and tutorials led by government representatives, UN officials and professionals who work in the field.
Global thinking
The BA (Hons) International Relations and Diplomacy introduces you to the very latest global debates surrounding power, justice, order, conflict, legitimacy, accountability, obligation, sovereignty, mediation, security, governance and other themes relating to inter-governmental relations and decision-making processes.
You will also learn about concepts such as anarchy, statism, security-dilemma, self-help, nationalism, institutionalism, regimes, realism, neo-realism, liberalism, globalisation, peace-building, conflict resolution and arbitration. Each of these concepts will help you understand, analyse and interpret political developments on the world stage.
Fast Track to Clearing
If you're still looking for a place at university, have changed your mind about what and where you want to study, or are worried about your grades, register now to beat the results day rush.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Undergraduate Open Days
The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.
We nurture an atmosphere in which your enthusiasm for reading, writing and debating about international relations, diplomacy and world affairs will flourish as you progress through the course.
You will enjoy a student-centred and varied learning experience which employs different approaches including:
formal lectures
student-led seminars
workshops
tutorials
We encourage active student participation in a relaxed, inclusive environment where you can learn from each other and with each other.
How you are assessed
Most core modules in the BA (Hons) International Relations and Diplomacy are assessed entirely by coursework which incorporates a variety of tasks and modes such as:
essays of varied length, scale and scope
document analyses
policy papers and reports
project and dissertation work
individual and group oral presentations
poster exhibitions
portfolio compilation
seminar presentation and participation
Who you’ll meet
We pride ourselves on being approachable, welcoming and supportive. A personal tutor will help and advise you throughout your degree, providing an exceptional level of support which has been commended by external examiners.
Our teaching team is made up of highly qualified, experienced and research-active lecturers. They are committed to exploring the broad interdisciplinary aspects of the subject but all have their own individual areas of expertise, publication and research interests. They include:
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Francesco Belcastro is a Lecturer and the programme leader of International Relations at the College of Business, Law and Social Sciences here at the University of Derby. He is currently the admissions tutor for International Relations and Diplomacy. He is also a Fellow of the Centre for Syrian Studies, University of St Andrews.
These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2022 entry.
Requirement
What we're looking for
UCAS points
112-120
A Level
BBB-BBC
BTEC
DDM-DMM
GCSE
GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
Access to HE
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15, Merit: 24, Pass: 6. Must include passes in compulsory Level 3 subjects
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
2023 entry
These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2023 entry.
Requirement
What we're looking for
UCAS points
112-120
A Level
BBB-BBC
T Level
Merit
BTEC
DDM-DMM
GCSE
GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
Access to HE
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15, Merit: 24, Pass: 6. Must include passes in compulsory Level 3 subjects
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
The BA (Hons) International Relations and Diplomacy sets you apart as an independent and confident individual who can see the world from multiple perspectives. Your understanding of the complex relationships between governments internationally will prepare you for career success in an era when business operations are becoming increasingly global.
The work-based learning experience you gain on the degree will help you build an impressive CV and make you highly competitive in the graduate employment market. You will be able to show prospective employers that you are adept at linking theories to practice.
Your career opportunities could span to organisations such as government embassies, international agencies, international development organisations, public and voluntary bodies, and transnational corporations. You will also be well equipped for roles in the private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGO’s) including teaching, political analysis, media, law, the civil service and the uniformed services.
Our Careers and Employment Service will provide you with support from day one of your course to ensure you leave Derby as a ‘work-ready’ graduate – industry aware, motivated and enterprising. Throughout your studies, you’ll also benefit from our Personal Development Planning (PDP) scheme which enables you to reflect on your learning and develop your career ambitions.
The support continues once you’ve completed your course too: you are entitled to further help and guidance from the Careers and Employment Service for up to three years after leaving the University.
Further study
You could consider taking your studies to the next level and if you have a particular interest in research, our MRes Social Sciences and Humanities enables you to undertake an original research project in a specialist area of your choice. Our MSc Intelligence Security and Disaster Management develops your professional focus and ability in emergency preparedness, resilience and response.
“I have been able to immerse myself into a world of research and study in areas that I am passionate about. I really respect every academic who has taught me. They are very approachable and have a great sense of humor which is so important when doing a course as intense as a Masters.” Danielle Roe, MA Social and Political Studies.
Contact us
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
Please also note that due to the current Covid-19 situation, if your course offers fieldtrips, the location of these may change or be cancelled. If this happens, you will be communicated to in advance and we will do our very best to seek out other practical opportunities to ensure your experience is not affected.
The information below is correct for entry in the academic year September 2021 - August 2022 only. Entry for future academic years may be subject to change.
Included in your fees
International Governmental Organisation field trip for stage 2 students
Study visit to London for stage 1 students.
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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