Politics and International Relations - BA (Hons)

Durham University

Immerse yourself in the study of key global issues. Explore the history and structure of the international political order, the modern state, and the nature and purpose of politics. The study of politics and international relations combines two fascinating and complementary disciplines. Politics is a rapidly evolving field. It touches every area of our lives, covering issues from national security and inequalities in society to the climate crisis. With international relations you’ll develop an understanding of many of the relationships that shape our complex and interconnected world. The degree will equip you with a systematic and rigorous understanding of the two disciplines while developing many transferable skills that are valued by employers. You can further tailor your course by applying to add a year-long work placement, or an international dimension with an overseas study year. If you are selected this will increase the course from three years to four. The School of Government and International Affairs is home to several research centres and institutes, and many lecturers are actively engaged in research. This innovative work is fed into the BA, so you can be sure the curriculum is informed by contemporary political debate. The critical analytical and research skills that underpin the course, coupled with a deep understanding of global current affairs and the connections between nations, ruling parties and the business sector, will put you in a strong position to pursue a career in social policy research, journalism, academia, the charity sector, the Civil Service, the Foreign Office and more.Studies are structured around three main themes: political thought, political institutions and international relations. Following a general introduction, you’ll begin to tailor the course to your interests and aspirations with optional modules in areas such as security, interdependence, crises and conflict, comparative politics, democratic practice and the impact of global politics on the environment.Course structureYear 1 modulesCore modules:Researching Politics and International Relations introduces a range of strategies used to produce knowledge in politics and international relations. This module examines the strengths and weaknesses of a range of research methods. You will gain some practical experience of carrying out research in politics and international relations.Introduction to Comparative Politics introduces methods, approaches and key concepts in comparative politics. Drawing on historical texts and contemporary research you will explore a range of policy-relevant issues and begin to develop a problem-solving view of politics.Introduction to International Relations provides an overview of the field of international relations including its historical context and traditions of thought. The module addresses core concepts in the field including power, sovereignty, the international system, the international society, the state and norms.Introduction to Political Theory provides an overview of the role that key political ideals, values and theories play in shaping modern political thought: justifying and evaluating political institutions and public policy, and influencing political behaviour and change.Optional modules:In recent years, optional modules have included: Democratic Political SystemsInternational Security, Interdependence and OrganisationPerspectives of Political Economy. Year 2 modulesCore modules:Research Project is an extended piece of work produced within a structured framework that will help prepare you for the demands of writing a dissertation. You will gain a deeper understanding of politics as an academic subject and as an aspect of wider human activity.Foundations of Western Political Thought examines some of the main currents of European political thought in the ancient and modern worlds. It will also deve