International Relations, BA (Hons)

Goldsmiths' BA in International Relations explores the evolving dynamics of global politics, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to tackle 21st-century challenges. The programme provides an in-depth examination of world politics, including state relations, security, conflict, and global governance, while emphasising critical perspectives from Non-Western and Global South actors. It integrates interdisciplinary approaches, covering topics like climate change, migration, human rights, and cultural practices such as non-Western political thought and music. Students develop transferable skills for careers or further study, with opportunities for work placements in NGOs, think-tanks, and international organisations. Located in London, the degree benefits from proximity to global business and diverse communities.The curriculum spans three years: Year 1 introduces foundational modules like World Politics and Political Theory; Year 2 delves into Theories of International Relations and Security Studies, alongside electives; and Year 3 culminates in a dissertation and advanced options. Assessment includes coursework, exams, group work, and projects, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of student learning.

Year 1 You will study the following compulsory modules: World Politics Colonialism, Power, Resistance Everything is a Text Researching our Lives and Worlds Political Theory and Ideologies Year 2 You will study the following compulsory modules: Theories and Methods in International Relations Global Governance and World Order Security Studies The Goldsmiths Elective Optional modules You will also choose optional modules to the value of 60 credits from a list approved by the Department of Politics and International Relations. Work Placement module This optional module gives students experience of working in a range of organisations in the NGO sector such as charities, think-tanks and pressure groups, bodies connected with international organisations, appropriate businesses, and political parties. There will be a pool of guaranteed places which will be allocated on the basis appropriateness of the placement to the student's interests. However, we also encourage you to take the opportunity to find your own placements and will support you in that process. We would hope that all students will be able to take up the opportunity should an appropriate placement be found. Year 3 Students write a dissertation (30 credits) and will then choose a total of 90 credits of optional modules from the Politics and International Relations department for a total of 120 credits. Current examples include: Colonialism and Non-Western Political Thought Migration, Technology, and Humanitarianism The Politics of Memory Ethics and Economics of Environmental Protection Fascisms, Old and New The Politics of Popular Music Work Placement (Politics) Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.