International Relations (Placement Year) BA (Hons)

Lancaster University

We live in an increasingly globalised world: one in which trade, politics and collaboration takes place across international borders. Studying International Relations at Lancaster will develop your ability to think in global terms – and to understand the nature of the political, economic and environmental challenges that confront us in the twenty-first century.

By working closely with our academics, you’ll develop the ability to analyse international events, conduct research, and apply that knowledge effectively.

The degree covers a very wide range of topics and, as you advance through the degree, you increasingly have the opportunity to tailor the degree to your own interests by choosing from a wide range of modules. You will find that the core topics we offer are typical of most International Relations degrees in the UK. An important difference however is that we also offer modules in many areas of specific and topical staff expertise concerning government and politics in Britain, Europe and the world, as well a range of other relevant optional modules due to the interdisciplinary (Politics, Philosophy and Religion) nature of our department.

The cornerstones of your first year is the core module International Relations: Theory and Practice, which explores the challenges that confront states and international organisations in an increasingly global world and introduces the methods and theoretical approaches that we use in the study of International Relations at university level. You will also take two optional modules. We recommend that you choose Politics in the Modern World, which introduces key themes, concepts and events that are important in the study of modern politics at university level. You will be able to choose a third module from a range of subjects that complement your studies.

In the second year and final years you will be able to choose from a broad range of options. These are just some examples of the many modules we offer:

• International Relations, Security and Sustainability (recommended)
• International Relations and Politics of the Asia Pacific
• Politics of Development - Latin America
• Russian International Politics
• China’s International Relations
• Contemporary Issues in the Middle East
• Britain in the World
• Contemporary Issues in Human Rights
• Understanding External Intervention in Violent Conflicts
• Religion and Violence

In your final year, you have the opportunity to undertake a sustained investigation of a specific subject that interests you via the dissertation option.

Your placement year

To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments.

The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year.