International Relations

The Bachelor's Programme in International Relations at Malmö University offers students a comprehensive understanding of global political processes, international cooperation, and the complex interconnections that shape our world today. This program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, practical knowledge, and a deep awareness of international issues, preparing graduates for diverse careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, journalism, and policy analysis. Throughout the program, students explore a wide range of topics including international security, human rights, development, global economics, environmental policy, and global governance.

The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with real-world case studies, debates, and project work, encouraging students to think critically and develop a nuanced perspective on international affairs. The programme emphasizes intercultural understanding, communication skills, and ethical considerations, fostering a thorough appreciation of the cultural and political diversity encountered in international relations. Students have opportunities to engage in internships, exchange programs, and collaborations with global organizations, providing practical experience and networking opportunities that are invaluable for future career development.

The program’s faculty are experienced scholars and practitioners with extensive expertise in global politics, diplomacy, and international law, ensuring a high-quality education grounded in current challenges and emerging trends. Malmö University’s location in Sweden, a country known for its active role in peacebuilding, international diplomacy, and international development, offers students a unique vantage point to study international relations in a serene yet globally connected environment. Graduates are well-prepared for advanced studies or direct entry into international careers, armed with the knowledge, skills, and intercultural competence necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.

Detailed Course Facts

• Free
• EUR 7375 Year (Non-EEA)

Tuition fees:
for non-EU students only First instalment: 70000 SEK
Full tuition Fee: 210000 SEK

• English

Course Content

International Relations as an academic subject contains a number of theoretical perspectives seeking to illuminate and explain relations between different types of actors and structures within global politics.

The overarching aim of the bachelor program of international relations is to provide students with the ability to gain skills, knowledge and insight in relation to the following main areas: the basic features of international relations; the changeable nature of international relations; the relationship between global politics the state and the individual; the nature and modes of operation of the international system; and the emergence of international norms and institutions. Furthermore, the program seeks to provide knowledge and insight into salient theoretical endeavors, methodological issues and current research debates within the field of study.

The program also aims to equip students with the necessary analytical skills in order to be able to work with subject related issues in national and international environments, for example within voluntary organizations, national public authorities and international organizations. In addition, the program provides necessary skills and knowledge for continued studies on master or graduate studies levels.

The bachelor program consists of six terms of study and leads to a bachelor’s degree in International Relations.

The program is organized in the following way:

• Term 1: International relations 1. This term is based on the theoretically pluralist character of the discipline, i.e. it engages different perspectives on IR, providing the foundation for further study. This course also gives students an introduction to current issues and trends in global politics, and their historical background and development. In addition, an introduction to scientific methods and academic writing is given.

• Term 2: International Relations 2. This course builds on the theoretical and empirical knowledge gained in the first semester, but focuses on specific processes and structures central to the development and operation of the contemporary international system, as well as on questions relating methodology and the research of international relations. The latter includes the writing of a research paper.

• Term 3: Elective. This semester makes it possible for students to enroll in elective courses, but it is recommended that students chose subjects either related to IR or courses of relevance for future professional careers.

• Term 4: Elective. This semester also makes it possible for students to enroll in elective courses but it is recommended that students either conduct studies at a university abroad, or do an internship which the program coordinator deems relevant to the study program.

• Term 5: In–Depth Studies in Global Politics. This course aims to provide students with deepened understanding of theory within the discipline and to broaden their knowledge of the empirical scope of Global Politics. Specific attention is given to global governance and foreign policy strategies.

• Term 6: International Relations 3. In the final semester, we focus on analysis of contemporary challenges in Global Politics in relation to more advanced studies of methodology and philosophy of science. Specific attention is given to the research process and the design and completion of a research project. The course ends with a Bachelor Thesis (15 credits).

Content

Courses

For programme with start Autumn 2015:

Autumn 2015

• International Relations I, 1-30 credits (IR110L) compulsory
  Main field: International Relations

Spring 2016

• International Relations II, 31-60 credits (IR102L) compulsory
  Main field: International Relations

Spring 2018

• International Relations III, 61-90 credits (IR103L) compulsory
  Main field: International Relations

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 575 TOEFL iBT® test : 90

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

The special prerequisite for this programme focus, besides basic eligibility for university studies, is fieldeligibility 6: English B.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Malmö University.

The International Relations programme at Malmö University offers students a comprehensive understanding of global politics, international cooperation, and the complex issues that define our interconnected world. Designed to prepare students for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, and global policy analysis, the programme combines theoretical frameworks with practical insights into international affairs. Students explore key topics such as international security, economic development, human rights, environmental challenges, and the role of regional organizations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical skills, enabling graduates to navigate and influence international systems effectively.

Malmö University's programme is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, integrating political science, economics, sociology, and law to provide a holistic perspective on global issues. The course structure typically includes core modules, elective courses, and a research project or thesis, all designed to foster in-depth understanding and independent investigation. The programme often encourages student mobility, offering opportunities for exchanges and internships that enhance practical experience and global networking.

Furthermore, the university promotes a diverse and inclusive learning environment, attracting students from various backgrounds and nationalities. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and prepares students for the multicultural realities of international relations careers. Malmö University also collaborates with international institutions and organizations, providing students with valuable opportunities for engagement and practical training.

Graduates of the International Relations programme possess a solid foundation in the theories and practices of international politics, along with the skills needed to analyze complex global issues critically. They are well-equipped to pursue careers in international policy analysis, diplomatic service, international development, and related fields. The programme aims to cultivate globally conscious professionals who can contribute to solutions in an increasingly interconnected world.

Overall, Malmö University's International Relations programme offers a dynamic learning environment that combines academic rigor, practical relevance, and international exposure. It prepares students not only for professional success but also for active participation in shaping a more peaceful and sustainable global society.