MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) International Relations and Development
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program at the University of Sussex is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of global political systems, development theories, and the interconnectedness of global issues. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of international relations with a focus on international development, providing students with the tools to critically examine global poverty, inequality, and the role of international organizations in addressing these challenges. Graduates of this program are prepared to engage with global development issues in a range of professional fields, from policy analysis and international diplomacy to humanitarian work and development agencies.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program at Sussex blends political science with development studies, allowing students to explore the dynamics of international relations, global governance, and economic development. Core modules cover topics such as the foundations of international relations, global political economy, the politics of development, and international human rights. Students will also engage with issues such as sustainability, conflict resolution, and the global response to migration and displacement. The program offers flexibility with a range of optional modules, enabling students to specialize in areas like gender and development, environmental politics, and development economics. This diverse curriculum ensures that students gain both a broad understanding of global issues and the specialized knowledge necessary for careers in international development.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is globally recognized for its research in international development and international relations. The program benefits from the university's commitment to research excellence in areas such as social justice, global inequality, development policies, and global governance. The university's research output focuses on critical global challenges, including climate change, poverty alleviation, peacebuilding, and the political dimensions of international aid. Sussex's interdisciplinary approach encourages students to engage with cutting-edge research and apply theoretical frameworks to real-world issues. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects and engage with the university’s vibrant academic community, contributing to ongoing discussions around global development.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is an integral part of the BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program, offering students opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and collaborative projects with international organizations, NGOs, and development agencies. The program’s close ties with various governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) ensure that students can apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, students benefit from the university's extensive network of alumni who work across global organizations, enhancing opportunities for career development. Sussex’s career services also support students in securing internships and job placements, helping them build valuable industry connections and gain practical skills relevant to their chosen career path.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program at Sussex is designed with a global perspective in mind. It prepares students to understand and address international development challenges from a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary standpoint. Students explore the political, economic, and social dynamics of different regions of the world, gaining an in-depth understanding of how global systems operate and affect local communities. Through study abroad opportunities, field trips, and interactions with international experts, students develop a well-rounded perspective on global development issues. The program also encourages students to critically assess the role of international organizations, governments, and local actors in shaping development outcomes. By the end of the program, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in diverse international settings, contributing to global development efforts.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% 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.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program at the University of Sussex offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of this program, which combines international relations with a focus on global development, prepares students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address some of the world's most pressing issues. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for roles in international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government, the private sector, and academia.
International Development and Humanitarian Aid: Graduates are highly sought after by organizations working in international development and humanitarian aid. Their expertise in global inequality, development policies, and international relations makes them well-suited for roles such as project coordinator, program manager, or field officer within NGOs, international aid agencies, and humanitarian organizations. These roles involve working on issues such as poverty alleviation, disaster relief, education, and healthcare in developing countries.
Government and Public Policy: With a solid understanding of global political systems and international development, graduates can pursue careers in government and public policy. They may work for national or local governments, or within international bodies such as the United Nations or the European Union. Potential career roles include policy advisor, diplomatic officer, or public sector analyst, where graduates can influence policy decisions related to international relations, development, security, and economic growth.
International Relations and Diplomacy: Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in international relations and diplomacy. Their knowledge of international governance, conflict resolution, and human rights positions them for roles as diplomats, foreign service officers, or international relations analysts. These positions involve representing countries or international organizations, negotiating treaties, and advocating for global peace and security.
International Business and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Graduates with an interest in business and sustainability can enter the corporate sector, particularly in roles related to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Many multinational corporations and organizations focus on sustainable development and ethical business practices, and graduates of the BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program are well-positioned to contribute. Career paths may include CSR manager, sustainability consultant, or international business analyst, where graduates help companies develop policies that promote social, environmental, and economic sustainability.
Research and Academia: For those inclined toward further study, the BA (Hons) International Relations and Development program offers a strong foundation for postgraduate research. Graduates can pursue master’s or doctoral programs in international relations, development studies, or political science. Additionally, they may work in research roles within universities, think tanks, or policy research organizations, where they can analyze and contribute to the academic discourse on global development and international relations.
Media and Communication: Graduates can also enter careers in media and communication, particularly in roles that focus on international development, global politics, and human rights. With a deep understanding of global issues, graduates can work as foreign correspondents, journalists, or media analysts, reporting on international conflicts, social justice issues, or development initiatives. They may also work as communications officers or media relations specialists for NGOs, government agencies, or global institutions.
International Law and Human Rights: With a focus on global governance, international law, and human rights, graduates can pursue careers in international law firms, NGOs, or government agencies that specialize in human rights and international law. Roles such as human rights lawyer, international legal advisor, or policy advocate are common career paths for those interested in addressing global legal challenges and advocating for the protection of human rights worldwide.
International Trade and Economics: Graduates with a strong interest in global economics can explore careers in international trade, economics, and finance. Roles such as international trade analyst, economic development specialist, or financial consultant allow graduates to apply their knowledge of global development and international relations to the economic sector. They may work for government agencies, multinational corporations, or financial institutions focused on international trade and development.
Education and Teaching: Graduates of the program may choose to pursue a career in education, either by teaching international relations or development studies at a secondary or higher education level, or by working with international educational organizations. They may also work in educational development, particularly with NGOs or non-profit organizations that focus on improving education in underdeveloped regions.
Advocacy and Social Justice: Graduates can pursue careers in advocacy and social justice, working for organizations that promote human rights, gender equality, environmental justice, and global peace. They may take on roles such as advocacy coordinator, policy officer, or program officer within human rights organizations, social justice groups, or environmental agencies, where they will work to influence policies and promote equality and human dignity on a global scale.
