BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations

Liverpool Hope University's BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations program offers students a comprehensive understanding of global issues from both geographical and political perspectives. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of geography, which examines the physical and human aspects of the Earth's surface, with international relations, which focuses on the interactions between states, non-state actors, and global institutions. Through a combination of theoretical study, practical research, and real-world application, students gain insights into the complex interplay between geographical factors and international politics.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations program covers a wide range of topics, including political geography, geopolitics, global governance, international security, environmental diplomacy, and development studies. Students explore geographical concepts such as spatial patterns, environmental change, and resource distribution, while also analyzing political theories, diplomatic strategies, and global issues such as conflict resolution, human rights, and sustainable development. The program includes modules on regional studies, global challenges, and research methods, providing students with a solid foundation in both geographical and international relations theory and practice.

Research Focus: Liverpool Hope University emphasizes research-led teaching, and the BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations program reflects this commitment. Faculty members are actively engaged in research projects that address global challenges, geopolitical issues, and environmental concerns, including studies on migration, climate change, humanitarian intervention, and global governance. Students have the opportunity to participate in research seminars, undertake independent research projects, and contribute to ongoing discussions in the fields of geography and international relations.

Industry Engagement: The university maintains strong connections with industry partners, governmental agencies, and international organizations, providing students with opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Through internships, study abroad programs, and guest lectures from industry experts, students gain practical experience and develop transferable skills that are valued in a variety of professional settings. The program also includes modules on professional skills, communication, and networking, preparing students for careers in fields such as diplomacy, international development, or environmental policy.

Global Perspective: Liverpool Hope University's BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations program promotes a global perspective by examining global issues and geopolitical dynamics from diverse cultural, social, and historical perspectives. Students explore the interconnectedness of global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, while also considering the role of geographical factors such as borders, resources, and landscapes in shaping international relations. The program includes opportunities for international study exchanges, cross-cultural dialogue, and fieldwork experiences, enriching students' understanding of global issues and fostering intercultural competence.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 17 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59 with no individual score below 51.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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.

Liverpool Hope University offers various scholarships and financial support options to international students, recognizing their academic excellence and potential. These scholarships aim to make higher education more accessible and affordable for international students. 

International Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international undergraduate and postgraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. The scholarship is worth up to £2,000 and is awarded based on academic merit.

Vice-Chancellor's International Attainment Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students who have achieved exceptional academic results. The scholarship is worth up to £3,000 and is based on academic performance.

Partnership Scholarships: Liverpool Hope University has established partnerships with various institutions worldwide. Through these partnerships, international students may be eligible for specific scholarships or fee reductions when applying to Liverpool Hope University. 

Country-Specific Scholarships: Liverpool Hope University offers scholarships tailored to students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application process.

External Scholarships: Liverpool Hope University encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by governments, organizations, and foundations in their home countries or other sources. The university provides guidance and support to students in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary from year to year.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Geography and International Relations program at Liverpool Hope University possess a unique skill set that prepares them for a variety of career paths in both public and private sectors. 

Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing their country's interests abroad, negotiating treaties, and promoting international cooperation. They may work for government agencies, embassies, or international organizations, utilizing their knowledge of international relations, diplomacy, and geographical factors to address global challenges and foster diplomatic relations between nations.

Policy Analyst/Researcher: Graduates may work as policy analysts or researchers for think tanks, research institutes, or governmental agencies, conducting research, analyzing data, and providing recommendations on global issues such as security, development, and environmental sustainability. They can contribute to policy formulation, evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies, and propose evidence-based solutions to complex geopolitical problems.

International Development Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in international development, working for NGOs, aid organizations, or development agencies to implement projects that promote economic growth, poverty alleviation, and social justice in developing countries. They may focus on areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, or environmental conservation, using their understanding of geographical contexts and international relations dynamics to design and manage development initiatives.

Environmental Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as environmental policy analysts for governmental agencies, environmental NGOs, or consulting firms, analyzing environmental issues, evaluating policy options, and advocating for sustainable practices at local, national, or international levels. They can contribute to environmental impact assessments, climate change mitigation strategies, and conservation initiatives, integrating geographical knowledge with political analysis to address environmental challenges.

Intelligence Analyst/Security Consultant: Graduates can pursue careers in intelligence analysis or security consulting, working for intelligence agencies, security firms, or multinational corporations to assess geopolitical risks, analyze security threats, and develop strategies to protect assets and interests. They may specialize in areas such as counterterrorism, cybersecurity, or geopolitical forecasting, providing insights and recommendations to clients based on their understanding of global politics and geographical dynamics.

International Relations Officer: Graduates may work as international relations officers for multinational corporations, international organizations, or non-state actors, managing international partnerships, facilitating cross-border collaborations, and navigating regulatory environments in different countries. They can contribute to business expansion strategies, cultural exchange programs, or humanitarian initiatives, leveraging their knowledge of international relations and geographical contexts to build networks and forge alliances across borders.

Journalist/Correspondent: Graduates can pursue careers as journalists or correspondents, reporting on international affairs, geopolitical events, and global trends for newspapers, magazines, television networks, or online media outlets. They may cover topics such as conflict zones, diplomatic negotiations, or humanitarian crises, using their understanding of international relations and geographical contexts to provide in-depth analysis and informed commentary on global issues.

International Trade Specialist: Graduates may work as international trade specialists for government agencies, trade associations, or multinational corporations, facilitating international trade agreements, conducting market research, and promoting cross-border commerce. They can help businesses navigate trade regulations, assess market opportunities, and develop export strategies, drawing on their knowledge of international relations and geographical factors to identify potential trade partners and markets.

Humanitarian Aid Worker: Graduates can pursue careers as humanitarian aid workers, providing assistance and support to communities affected by conflict, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises around the world. They may work for humanitarian organizations, UN agencies, or grassroots NGOs, delivering emergency relief, coordinating humanitarian responses, and advocating for the protection of vulnerable populations. They can apply their understanding of international relations and geographical contexts to address humanitarian needs and promote sustainable development in crisis-affected areas.

Corporate Social Responsibility Manager: Graduates may work as corporate social responsibility (CSR) managers for corporations, overseeing CSR initiatives, sustainability programs, and community engagement efforts that align with corporate values and contribute to positive social and environmental impact. They can develop partnerships with NGOs, coordinate philanthropic activities, and implement responsible business practices, leveraging their knowledge of international relations and geographical considerations to address global challenges and promote corporate sustainability.