MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of global political systems, economic interconnections, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international law. Students are exposed to a range of contemporary global issues such as international security, climate change, and human rights, all while learning about the key institutions, actors, and policies that shape the international system. The program includes a structured placement year, which offers students the unique opportunity to gain practical work experience in a professional setting, building valuable skills and enhancing their employability upon graduation. The blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience provides students with a strong foundation for a wide variety of career paths in global politics, international organizations, diplomacy, and business.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program at Loughborough is designed to offer both breadth and depth in the study of international relations. In the first year, students engage with core modules that provide a foundational understanding of political theory, international law, international institutions, and global governance. As students progress to their second and third years, they can choose from a wide variety of elective modules covering specialized topics such as international conflict, security studies, foreign policy analysis, human rights, and the political economy of globalization. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning based on their areas of interest. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are essential for understanding complex global issues. In addition to the placement year, students also complete a research project or dissertation in their final year, which allows them to explore a specific area of international relations in depth.
Research Focus: Loughborough University is renowned for its high-impact research, and the International Relations department is no exception. The university’s research focus spans a broad range of global issues, including security studies, conflict resolution, international law, diplomacy, and global governance. The department’s research aims to address some of the most pressing challenges in international relations today, such as the causes of conflict, international humanitarian law, and the role of international organizations in promoting peace and security. Students are encouraged to engage with faculty-led research projects, providing them with an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge studies while gaining valuable academic experience. The department's commitment to research excellence ensures that students are exposed to the latest scholarly perspectives and methodologies in the field.
Industry Engagement: Loughborough University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement, and the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program is a prime example of this commitment. The integration of a placement year into the program allows students to gain real-world experience in international organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations, and other relevant sectors. These placements give students the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting, whether it be in policy analysis, diplomacy, international development, or business. Through partnerships with industry professionals and organizations, Loughborough ensures that students can secure placements that align with their career goals and provide invaluable experience in the field. In addition to placements, the university also offers a range of networking events, career fairs, and industry workshops to help students connect with potential employers and build professional relationships.
Global Perspective: Loughborough University promotes a global perspective throughout its BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program. The curriculum encourages students to examine global political and economic issues from multiple perspectives, with a focus on understanding the interconnectedness of nations and the role of international institutions. The program also offers students opportunities for international study, where they can engage with different political and cultural environments, gaining first-hand experience of international relations in diverse settings. Moreover, Loughborough’s diverse student body and global network of alumni contribute to a rich learning environment that helps students develop a broader understanding of global affairs. By encouraging students to engage with global issues both inside and outside the classroom, the program prepares them for careers in a globalized world.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23000
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 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Loughborough University, located in the United Kingdom, is a globally recognized institution known for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong focus on employability. The BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of global politics, international organizations, diplomacy, and international conflict resolution, while also providing them with valuable industry experience. The program’s unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience enhances the career prospects of graduates, making them highly competitive in the global job market. Graduates of this program can pursue a variety of career paths across public, private, and non-governmental sectors, with opportunities in international relations, government, business, and more.
Diplomacy and Foreign Service: Many graduates of the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program choose to pursue careers in diplomacy or foreign service. The program’s focus on international politics, diplomacy, and global governance equips students with the necessary skills to represent their country in diplomatic missions, consulates, and embassies. Graduates can work as diplomats, foreign affairs officers, or political analysts for government ministries or foreign service agencies. Loughborough’s strong academic foundation and real-world experience gained during the placement year give students a competitive edge in applying for roles in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) or international bodies like the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU).
International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates from the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program are well-prepared for roles in international organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that tackle global issues such as poverty, conflict, climate change, and human rights. Students gain a strong understanding of international law, international development, and global security, which are crucial in working with organizations such as the UN, World Bank, International Red Cross, or Amnesty International. Graduates may work as project managers, policy advisors, researchers, or coordinators in NGOs, helping to shape policies, implement humanitarian aid programs, or contribute to international development projects.
Public Policy and Government: The program provides a solid foundation for students interested in shaping public policy at local, national, or international levels. Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, political advisors, or civil servants. Many international relations graduates go on to work in governmental organizations, providing expertise on foreign policy, security issues, or trade agreements. Loughborough University’s emphasis on global governance and political theory ensures students are well-prepared to engage in policy development and analysis. Graduates may find roles in departments such as the Home Office, the Department for International Trade, or ministries responsible for international relations and foreign affairs.
Intelligence and National Security: Graduates with a focus on security studies and international conflict are well-positioned for careers in national security and intelligence. Organizations such as MI5, MI6, the CIA, and other intelligence agencies often seek graduates who have a deep understanding of global political threats and the ability to analyze political situations. Graduates of the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program can work as intelligence officers, security analysts, or national security consultants, contributing to efforts in counterterrorism, intelligence gathering, and geopolitical risk assessment.
International Business and Trade: A background in international relations is highly relevant for careers in international business, trade, and global markets. Graduates can work as international trade analysts, business development managers, or global risk consultants, advising businesses on political, economic, and cultural factors that may affect their operations in foreign markets. The program's emphasis on international political economy, economic relations, and global trade policies equips students with the knowledge needed to succeed in multinational corporations, international financial institutions, and global consulting firms.
Journalism and Media: International relations graduates with strong writing, research, and communication skills often find fulfilling careers in journalism and media. The skills honed during the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program—such as analyzing international events, critical thinking, and presenting complex ideas—are highly transferable to roles in media. Graduates may pursue careers as foreign correspondents, political reporters, or analysts for global news agencies, television networks, or online publications. The program’s focus on global politics and security issues also prepares students for roles in political communication and media relations within governmental agencies or international organizations.
Research and Academia: For those who are passionate about studying and analyzing global political systems in more depth, pursuing postgraduate studies and a career in academia is a popular path. Graduates of Loughborough University’s BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program are well-equipped to continue their education at the postgraduate level. Many students go on to pursue a Master’s or PhD in international relations, political science, security studies, or related fields. This pathway can lead to careers as university lecturers, researchers, or policy advisors in think tanks and research organizations focused on international affairs.
Consultancy: International relations graduates also find opportunities in global consultancy firms. These firms provide expert advice to governments, multinational corporations, and international organizations on a variety of global issues such as market entry, political risk analysis, and international relations strategy. Graduates may work as political risk analysts, international consultants, or advisors, helping clients navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and make informed decisions in global markets. The analytical, research, and problem-solving skills developed during the program are highly valued in consulting firms.
Freelance and Entrepreneurship: For students with entrepreneurial aspirations, the BA (Hons) International Relations with Placement Year program provides a solid foundation for starting a freelance career or launching a consultancy business. Graduates may work as independent consultants, offering expertise on international relations, conflict resolution, or foreign policy to governments, organizations, or businesses. Additionally, graduates can create their own initiatives focused on international development, global education, or cross-cultural diplomacy.
