International Relations

International relations is the discipline that attempts to make sense of how the world is organised politically and how nation-states, international organisations, and other global actors interact, compete, and co-operate. It draws on political science, history, economics, law, and sociology to examine questions that range from the causes of war and the conditions for peace to the governance of trade, the management of migration, and the response to shared challenges such as climate change and global health. In a world where decisions made in one country so quickly affect others, understanding the structures and dynamics of the international system has never been more important.

At Regent's University London, which is unusual among UK universities in the genuinely international character of its student body and faculty, you will study international relations with the benefit of that cosmopolitan environment. You will explore the major theoretical traditions that scholars use to explain international events, from realism and liberal institutionalism to constructivist and post-colonial approaches. The programme covers contemporary global challenges including terrorism, foreign intervention, and sustainability, as well as the historical processes that have shaped the current international order.

A year abroad is built into the course, giving you the opportunity to study in a different national context and to experience international relations, in a sense, from another vantage point.

Graduates from international relations programmes pursue careers in diplomacy, the civil service, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, journalism, international business, and law. The analytical, research, and communication skills developed through the degree are valuable across a wide range of sectors. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in international relations, security studies, international law, or public policy.