BA(Hons) International Relations

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Chester are required to have completed their secondary education with a minimum overall percentage of 65% or above.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 overall, with no individual band score below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based Test (iBT), with no section below 17.
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 61 overall, with no communicative skills score below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Chester offers various scholarships and financial support options to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students with financial needs, and promote diversity and inclusivity. 

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is available to international undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarship provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 for the first year of study. The selection is based on academic achievement and personal statement.

Chevening Scholarships: The University of Chester is a participating institution in the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program. Chevening Scholarships are awarded by the UK government to outstanding individuals with leadership potential from around the world. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances for a one-year master's degree.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The university participates in the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offering scholarships to students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for selected master's degree programs.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships are open to international students applying for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree at the University of Chester. The scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction of £2,000 for the first year of study. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Chester offers country-specific scholarships to students from selected countries. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application process. They are designed to attract talented students from specific regions and support their educational journey at the university.

Alumni Discount: The University of Chester offers an Alumni Discount to international students who have previously completed a degree at the university and wish to pursue further studies. This discount provides a reduction in tuition fees for eligible students.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

The BA (Hons) International Relations program at the University of Chester prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in various sectors of international affairs and diplomacy. Graduates of this program acquire a range of skills and knowledge that are highly valued in today's globalized world.  

1. Diplomatic Service: Many graduates pursue careers in the diplomatic service, representing their country's interests abroad. They work as diplomats, foreign service officers, or consular officers, engaging in international negotiations, promoting diplomatic relations, and analyzing global political developments.

2. International Organizations: Graduates find employment opportunities in international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and NATO. They contribute to global development, peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and policy research.

3. Government and Public Service: Graduates may work for government agencies, ministries, or departments related to foreign affairs, defense, trade, or international development. They analyze international trends, formulate foreign policies, and contribute to national security strategies.

4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Many graduates choose to work in NGOs focused on human rights, humanitarian aid, sustainable development, and conflict resolution. They participate in international projects, manage programs in conflict zones, and advocate for social justice on a global scale.

5. International Business and Trade: Graduates with a background in international relations are well-suited for roles in international business and trade. They work in global marketing, international market research, supply chain management, or government relations for multinational corporations.

6. Journalism and Media: Some graduates pursue careers in journalism, reporting on international affairs, global conflicts, and geopolitical events. They work as foreign correspondents, editors, or analysts for news agencies, newspapers, or online media outlets.

7. Research and Academia: Graduates can pursue further studies or research positions in academia, conducting research on international relations, political science, or global studies. They may work as university lecturers, researchers, or policy analysts in research institutions.

8. Consulting and Risk Analysis: Graduates may work in global consulting firms, advising businesses on international market entry strategies, political risks, and regulatory compliance in foreign markets.

9. Security and Intelligence: Some graduates enter careers in security and intelligence, working for intelligence agencies, defense contractors, or security consultancies. They analyze threats, conduct risk assessments, and contribute to national security strategies.

10. International Development: Graduates can work in international development organizations, focusing on poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects in developing countries. They contribute to sustainable development initiatives and global poverty reduction efforts.