International Relations and Sociology

Take a transdisciplinary approach to the study of world affairs and global issues and tackle a range of issues to gain an insight into the trends that affect human societies, policies and the planet so you can navigate and influence some of the world’s most important questions and problems.   

Explore how the modern world has developed, where it’s going, and ways to bring about change for the better. While we all have our own ideas about society, our course helps you build a more accurate picture of the dramatic and diverse changes influencing our lives today. 

Real-world learning

On your International Relations modules, 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. So even while you're studying, you will have the chance to start making a difference. 

Your Sociology modules will explore a variety of societal issues such as media, culture and society, patterns of inequality, globalisation and social change, youth justice, the sociology of politics and protest and a Sociology Independent module providing you with a full understanding of societal issues.

Real-world research

We give you a thorough grounding in research methods, fieldwork, data collection and the analysis of statistics. Through your independent study module, you will have the chance to conduct in-depth research into the sociological themes that have most captured your interest. 

By the end of your degree, you will have developed skills in applying research findings to practical uses, together with the ability to analyse arguments and the confidence to justify your opinions. 

You will get the opportunity to devise solutions to real problems and present your ideas to external audiences, so even while you're studying, you will have the chance to start making a difference.

What is a Joint Honours degree?

A Joint Honours degree offers students the opportunity to study two subjects.

A Joint Honours degree is a great option if:

• You want to study two subjects you’re passionate about
• You’ve got a specific career in mind and want to create a tailored degree to prepare you for the future
• You want to study a new subject alongside one you’re already familiar with

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.

For International Relations and Sociology, you’ll learn through:

• lectures
• seminars
• multimedia presentations
• online collaboration
• guest lectures
• class debates 

We are determined to keep things fresh and interesting and involve projects that include the close reading of music videos, the design of your own conspiracy theory, the production of wikis and an extended final year piece of research in which you showcase your sociological interest in a topic of your choice.

How you are assessed

You will be assessed through a broad range of methods which allows you to demonstrate your individual strengths and abilities. These include:

• essays
• case studies
• project work
• group work presentations
• online discussions

2025 entry

These are the typical qualification requirements for September 2025 entry.

Contextual offers may apply to students who meet certain criteria.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

2025/26

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

Additional costs and optional extras

Because this course delivers such a broad spectrum of skills and insights, it’s no surprise to find our graduates excelling in a wide variety of careers where critical thinking, analytical know-how and research abilities are valued.

Our graduates have used their degree to become teachers, lecturers, social workers, probation officers, civil servants, social researchers, business owners, marketeers, counsellors, charity workers, journalists and to work in politics – to name but a few roles.

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.

Additional information about your studies

You will typically study your two subjects equally at stage one, before choosing whether you want to major in one subject at stages two and three.

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.