Analyse the most significant issues of the 21st century, such as factors that influence states going to war, why some states are weaker than others are, and how global order is maintained. Our course will enable you to obtain an advanced understanding of the modern world, including the way in which states, regions and international organisations interact, and practice a range of methods and methodologies to support research and policy analysis.

Our wide range of core and optional modules – including Britain and European Integration, Global Health and International Trade Theory and Practice – will help you to develop the subject-specific knowledge and professional skills necessary for a career in any field related to international relations.

This course is ideal for those who wish to work in an international environment and where knowledge of international issues is essential, with our aim to prepare you for senior roles in private and public organisations where you can influence major decisions. Previous graduates from this course have landed roles with the European Union and UN agencies, non-governmental organisations and local government organisations in Leicester.

Key features

• Tailor the course to your interests by choosing from a wide variety of optional modules.
• Add an international experience to your CV by taking part in an overseas course-related trip offered through our DMU Global programme. Previously, students have travelled to Amsterdam to see the Transnational Institute and to hear a talk at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.
• Benefit from the input of high-profile visiting scholars and academic staff. Previous guest speakers have included Alan Charlton, former UK Ambassador to Brazil, and former Members of US Congress Martin Frost and Phil Gingrey.
• You will be taught in our purpose-built Hugh Aston Building, equipped with lecture theatres and classrooms, break-out spaces for group work, quiet study zones for individual work, and high-spec IT labs installed with professional software. We are also expanding this building, meaning new classrooms and study spaces to make studying more comfortable.
• You can benefit from the new Student Advice Centre (SAC) with appointment/private meeting rooms, allowing you to discuss any queries you may have in a more confidential nature.

Structure and assessment

Course modules

• Theory and Practice of International Relations – this module will provide you with an advanced understanding of international relations theory and its relationship to the contemporary world. The module starts by introducing the subject discipline of international relations and emphasises the significance and relevance of theory in explaining the contemporary world. The module then provides an understanding of the key theories and evaluates the main differences between the competing positions. By doing so, you will gain an understanding of how the practices of international relations are informed by theoretical perspectives.
• Globalisation – globalisation affects business and society at all levels. In this module, you will gain an understanding of the historical background to globalisation as well as an understanding of the economic, political and commercial contexts of globalisation. You will develop an awareness of globalisation debates together with an understanding of the effects of globalisation on various actors and an awareness of the relationship between globalisation and business
• Research Methodology – this module presents research in management and business as a strategic activity that occurs within the context of limited resources and within a framework of ethical, legal and social constraints. Attention is focused on data collection techniques appropriate for research in management and business, along with techniques for the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data

You will also select four elective modules which might include:

• Post-Cold War World Order
• US Foreign Policy
• Regional Security in the European Neighbourhood
• Britain and European Integration
• International Trade
• Global Health: Politics, Policy and Strategy
• International Human Resource Management

Dissertation: You must also undertake a dissertation, providing an invaluable opportunity to work in-depth on a particular aspect of any international relations topic of your choice. You will need to apply and enhance your technical knowledge and critical awareness in a subject of your choice.

Note: All modules are subject to change in order to keep content current.

Facilities and features