International Relations

International Relations (IR) covers the broad themes and theories associated with the study of IR such as the state system, development, security, conflict and globalisation. It also draws on the School’s distinctive expertise in a number of areas which include British, French, European, American, Latin American, African and Middle Eastern Politics. You will undertake the historical study of IR, from the 1870s including the ‘scramble for Africa’, through to the Cold War, the origins of the war on terror, the financial crisis and the Arab Spring. You will learn how to apply these theories and reflect on their relevance through the use of both historical and contemporary examples.

Why study International Relations at QMUL?

You will learn from academics at the cutting-edge of their fields, who are contributing to our understanding of the subject. Our staff have diverse research interests, and this is reflected in the choice of modules available to students.

There are huge benefits to studying politics in London, with national political institutions, party headquarters, high-profile international organisations and think-tanks all based here. At QMUL, we exploit our location to the full, inviting a range of high-profile and inspiring speakers to the campus.

QMUL is also home to the Mile End Institute, a major policy centre. Drawing on its unique location within a Russell Group University situated in London’s East End, it brings together policymakers, academics and diverse local communities to address the major political challenges in the UK. They hold a number of exciting and engaging events throughout the year that are open to students.

Year 1

Core modules:

• Introduction to International Relations
• Introduction to Politics
• Political Analysis

​Optional modules:

• either Background to British Politics or one other module chosen from another School in the Faculty

Year 2

Core module:

• International Relations: Theories and Contemporary Issues

At least two from the following;

• War and Security in World Politics
• Global Governance
• International Politics of the Developing World
• Modernity: Theories of State, Economy and Society
• Plus options from within the School or another School within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. Click here to view modules from the School of Politics and International Relations

Year 3 (for students on the BA International Relations with a Year Abroad)

You will embark on a year abroad at a carefully selected partner university. You will choose your modules with the help of QM advisors. Although these modules will be non-credit bearing, you will need to pass them in order to progress to the next stage of the programme. You are encouraged to study the local language, but your studies would not depend on it.  All teaching will be delivered in English.

Final Year

Core module:

• The International Relations Research Project

Plus options from within the School which include the following:

• Analysing Public Policy
• Globalisation: Issues and Debates
• US Foriegn Policy
• The Politics of the Post-Colonial Middle East
• Nationalism & Ethnicity in International Relations
• Africa and International Politics
• Parliamentary Studies
• Parliamentary Studies (Internship)
• Race and Racism in World Politics
• Utopia and Dystopia: Political, Economic and Literary Dreamworlds
• The Political Economy of South East Asia
• Contemporary Russian Politics
• Political Violence and Liberal Modernity
• Global Ethics
• The European Union
• The Political Life of Security Methods
• Race and Racism in World Politics: Independent Research
• The International Politics of Africa: Independent Research

Requirements

• Applicants who have successfully completed their Certificate of Secondary Education (Attestat) will be considered for entry onto a Queen Mary International Foundation Programmes. Although our offer will vary from board to board, we will expect to see a minimum average score of 4.
• IELTS 6.5 overall
• The College accepts a wide range of qualifications such as; Access and Foundation programmes, vocational awards, Irish Leaving Certificate, Scottish Highers and other Baccalaureates. 
• Admission is based on academic merit and on the proven ability of the applicant to achieve success on their chosen programme of study. Every application to Queen Mary is considered on its individual merits with personal statement and reference taken into consideration. 

Scholarships

• Global Education