International Relations and Asian Studies, BA (Hons)

Our BA in International Relations and Asian Studies examines Asia's rising economic and political impact on global affairs, covering key themes like the continent's evolution and global political challenges. Supported by our Asia Research Institute and Taiwan Research Hub, the programme draws on expert insights into regional political, social, and economic issues. Students can immerse themselves in the culture by studying abroad in year two at our China or Malaysia campuses, with options to tailor the degree through modules on topics such as environmental governance, security, media, or global justice. Graduates pursue diverse roles in sectors like government, media, and finance, including positions at organisations such as the BBC and Civil Service, equipping them with skills for navigating international dynamics.The course structure begins in year one with foundational topics in international relations, comparative politics, and Asian politics, plus optional explorations of British politics and historical ideas. Year two typically involves studying abroad, focusing on China's modern history, economy, and Mandarin, or Malaysia's Asia-Pacific relations and cultural context, subject to any travel restrictions. In the final year, students may complete a dissertation with supervisor support and select specialised modules to align with their interests.

In year one, you will cover topics like international relations, comparative politics, and Asian politics. Optional modules explore controversies in British politics and key political ideas and historical developments. The intention is for you to spend your second year studying abroad at the University's campuses in China or Malaysia, where teaching will be in English. Please note, in the event of government or University restrictions on study abroad are in place at the intended year of study, you will then study the modules on the UK pathway. In China, you will explore the country's modern political history, economy and society, developing research techniques. You can also choose to study the Mandarin language. In Malaysia, you will examine Asia Pacific relations and developing an understanding of the Malay world. You can choose to delve further into the country's culture, economy and security. In your final year, you have the option to complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice in international relations and Asian studies. You'll be allocated a dedicated supervisor to support you. You will also select from a wide range of optional modules that allow you to specialise in the areas that interest you.