University of Leicester

International Relations BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Over the course of our International Relations BA you will explore some of the most important and interesting issues in international relations, including order and disorder in international relations, human rights in the global order, old and new security challenges, and the impact of globalisation. Our lecturers produce internationally renowned, cutting-edge research, and are keen to share their knowledge. During your time with us, we will encourage you to focus your studies on your own areas of interest.

You will benefit from a wide range of exciting module choices – and as our lecturers have such diverse interests, you will receive enthusiastic support and guidance for whichever area you choose. Your core modules will cover international relations from 1945 to the present, ethics and international relations, the world economy, theories of international relations, international security and foreign policy. You will also be able to choose from a range of option modules covering issues such as gender and international relations, old and new wars, counter-terrorism and international development.

Regions covered in depth on the course include the US, Europe, Africa and Latin America. 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, and we’re happy to consid

Key highlights

  • Core modules span international relations from 1945 to the present
  • Study ethics, world economy, international security and foreign policy
  • Options include gender, old and new wars, and counter-terrorism
  • In-depth regional coverage of the US, Europe, Africa and Latin America
  • Taught by lecturers producing internationally renowned, cutting-edge research
  • Wide module choice lets you focus on your own 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
  • Diplomatic service officer
  • Political risk analyst
  • International development officer
  • Researcher for a think tank or NGO
  • Public affairs consultant

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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