BA(Hons) International Relations and Politics

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 and Politics program equips graduates with versatile skills in critical thinking, research, communication, and intercultural understanding, preparing them for a wide range of dynamic and impactful careers in the global arena. Graduates emerge as informed and adaptable professionals ready to contribute positively to international affairs and societal change.

1. Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs: Graduates can pursue careers in diplomacy and foreign affairs, working for government agencies, diplomatic missions, or international organizations. They may serve as diplomats, political analysts, or policy advisors, engaging in international negotiations, conflict resolution, and diplomatic communication.

2. Government and Public Service: Many graduates enter careers in government and public service, working for national or local governments, parliamentary offices, or civil service departments. They may specialize in policy analysis, political research, or public administration, contributing to policy development and governance.

3. International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates find opportunities in international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), or World Bank, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) focused on humanitarian aid, development, human rights, and global advocacy.

4. Political Consulting and Analysis: Some graduates pursue careers in political consulting firms, think tanks, or research institutes, providing strategic advice, conducting policy research, and analyzing political trends for public and private sector clients.

5. Journalism and Media: Graduates with strong communication skills may work as journalists, political correspondents, or media analysts, covering international affairs, geopolitical events, and policy debates for print, broadcast, or online media outlets.

6. Security and Intelligence: Careers in security and intelligence agencies are also options for graduates, focusing on national security, intelligence analysis, counterterrorism, and risk assessment.

7. Academia and Research: For those interested in academia, the program provides a solid foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies and research in political science, international relations, or related fields.

8. Business and Corporate Affairs: Graduates with international relations and politics expertise can work in multinational corporations, advising on geopolitical risks, government relations, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies.

9. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Careers in advocacy, campaign management, and community organizing are possible, with opportunities to work for advocacy groups, grassroots organizations, or political campaigns.