Global Affairs and Politics

The highlights

• A course for people who want to really understand the world we live in and have a burning desire to make things better
• It's unique because it blends the study of history, politics and journalism to shed light on the root causes of today's societal issues
• Develop problem-solving skills and a 'can do' attitude that will help you go into a wide range of job roles including in politics, campaigning, think-tanks, NGOs, charities, civil or diplomatic services

First understand. Then influence.

This unique BA (Hons) in International Relations and Politics is for people who want to understand and influence what is happening in the world — at either a local, regional, national or international level. It's the perfect time to launch this programme because never in human history has so much rapid change been apparent. The climate crisis, biodiversity and habitat loss, the Covid-19 pandemic, the rise of populism, threats to free speech and democracy around the world, ageing populations: these are just some of the challenges we face as we begin the 2020s. 

At the same time there are many areas of opportunity. New and sustainable technologies promise a future with clean energy and zero-emissions vehicles, while social media enables people to work together to challenge  prevailing orthodoxies, prejudices and governments. There is youth activism and widespread movements for racial and societal justice.

If you want to play a role in shaping some of these crucial global issues, this BA (Hons) in International Relations and Politics is a great starting point. The world needs well-informed, culturally aware citizens who can research and analyse the data, problem-solve and negotiate — and this is exactly what you will learn to do on this degree. 

If these quotes resonate with you, we think you're right for this course:

"I have learned that you are never too small to make a difference" 

— Greta Thunberg, environmental activist

"I'm an idealist without illusions"

— John F Kennedy

"The time is always right to do what is right."

— Martin Luther King Jr.

See issues from all angles

We'll discuss what's going on in the news each week and analyse the impact it's having — from political developments and technological or scientific breakthroughs, to economic matters and social movements. We'll also consider how the news is created and shaped, considering big issues such as freedom of the press and 'fake news'.

This course covers a huge variety of subjects, from politics and international affairs to anthropology, cultural studies, economics, data science, sociology, geography, history, languages, law, literature, international development, philosophy, marketing and media.

As well as giving you great all-round knowledge, this enables you to analyse issues from different viewpoints and learn that there is never just one way to look at a problem.

You will learn about:

• Political power, by studying politics and government at all levels, from parish councils to the UN 
• Policy making and influencing: How to bring about meaningful change by researching, analysing and proposing solutions to defined issues in society, the environment, or in government
• Analysis and reporting: The journalistic approaches used to research, analyse and report on the big issues of the day. You'll also work alongside journalists to produce your own news stories
• Cultural contexts: The different norms, attitudes, and disadvantage of the past and today and how this affects attitudes and behaviours. You'll learn to to work sensitively and with cultural intelligence.

We will also ensure you leave with a good understanding of the basics of data science, so that you can carefully assess some of the claims made by politicians and organisations in today's statistics-driven society.

Global and diverse

We expect this course to attract students from all over the world and are working with overseas universities to forge links. You will study issues from a wide range of countries including China, India, Brazil and America and you'll also learn from a diverse range of guest speakers. We also hope you will get involved in community projects, including those supporting the BAME (Black And Ethnic Minority) populations in our city and region.

Solve real problems

During this degree, you will get the opportunity to devise solutions to real problems and present your ideas to external audiences. In year two for example, there is a work experience module in which you'll be expected to work with a group, organisation or company on a project that either recommends or implements change. Then in year three, you'll get another opportunity to problem-solve with an advanced community or digital project, plus you'll develop a research paper about future sustainability and present its findings at a conference. So even while you're studying, you will have the chance to start making a difference.

The following are modules in which students may require Research Ethics Approval: Effecting and Negotiating Change, Global Affairs Dissertation and Advanced Community or Digital Project. 

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.

Our teaching methods will be varied, interactive and engaging. They include:

• Online and face-to-face lectures, sometimes involving guest speakers 
• Seminars that encourage lots of debate and discussion
• Work experience and real projects
• Self-directed study

How you are assessed

In your final year, you will undertake an Independent Study module which incorporates quantitative data analysis and you'll also need to write a dissertation.

When you have completed this degree, you will be well-informed about the major global issues of our time and have a range of skills that employers really value, particularly:

• negotiation and conflict resolution
• being able to analyse evidence objectively, including using basic data science techniques
• communication
• problem-solving
• cultural awareness.

You can put these skills to good use in a range of high-level careers, such as in politics, journalism, campaigning, think-tanks, NGOs (Non-Govermental Organisations), charities, the civil or diplomatic services, and inter-governmental institutions. 

2025 entry

These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2025 entry.

Contextual offers may apply to students who meet certain criteria.

2025/26

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

Additional costs and optional extras

Additional information about your studies

Teaching hours

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.

Course updates

The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.

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.

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.