University of Leicester

International Relations and History BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

International relations are the product of historical change which means that in order to understand one, you must consider the other. With our International Relations and History BA you will explore the ways in which these two fascinating topics are linked. You will be able to study the most vital issues affecting the modern world and understand their historical backgrounds - from the world's foremost powers (the United States, the EU, Russia and China) to smaller nations that are impacted by their behaviour.

You will be able to examine the workings and the health of the political system in Britain and other states. You will also explore some of the most important and interesting issues in national and international politics: Who holds power and why? Is there a crisis of political participation?

What are the appropriate limits to individual liberty? Is globalisation a positive process? Flexibility of modules in your second and third years will allow you to delve deeper into the areas of history and international relations that fascinate you the most.

Our lecturers have in-depth knowledge across diverse interests, so whichever areas you study, you will receive knowledgeable support and insightful guidance. Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world. You can review some of the qualifications we accept on our countries page and English Language equivalencies.

If your qualification or country is not listed, please contact us for more information, including the name and result of the qualification you have studied. Second year entry may be possible with suitable qualifications. If you don’t quite meet the above entry requirements, why not consider our Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities Foundation Year ?

We welcome applications from motivated students whose predicted grades are slightly below our standard entry requirements. We understand that predicted grades are not always an accurate reflection of your final results, a

Key highlights

  • Studies major powers including the United States, EU, Russia and China
  • Examines how smaller nations are affected by major powers' behaviour
  • Analyses the workings and health of British and other political systems
  • Explores power, political participation, individual liberty and globalisation
  • Flexible module choice in second and third years
  • Lecturers with in-depth knowledge across diverse research interests

Entry requirements

  • A-level: BBB — A/AS Levels : BBB.
  • A-level: BBC — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass diploma with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 credits at Distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 28 points overall.
  • BTEC: DDM — BTEC Nationals : Full Diploma with DDM.
  • T-level: Merit — to include in Management and Administration

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Policy analyst
  • Civil servant
  • Diplomatic service officer
  • Political researcher
  • Journalist
  • Archivist

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £20,200

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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