International Relations

The International Relations undergraduate programme at King's College London offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the complex relationships between nations, governments, and international organizations. Designed to provide students with a solid foundation in political theory, comparative politics, and international law, the course prepares graduates to critically analyze global issues and contribute effectively to international policy discussions. The curriculum covers key topics such as global security, diplomacy, human rights, international political economy, and environmental challenges, integrating both theoretical understanding and practical applications. Students will engage with a diverse range of case studies, participate in simulations, and collaborate on research projects that foster analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. The programme is delivered by experienced academics renowned for their expertise in fields such as security studies, diplomatic history, and global governance. Students benefit from King's College London's excellent links with international institutions, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world insights. The coursework emphasizes critical analysis, written and verbal communication, and research methodology, equipping graduates with skills highly sought after in diplomatic service, international consultancy, policy analysis, and NGOs. Additionally, opportunities for study abroad and internships enrich the student experience, allowing practical application of theoretical knowledge in diverse international settings. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers across various sectors, including international organizations, government departments, think tanks, and multinational corporations. Overall, the International Relations programme at King's College London offers a dynamic and rigorous education that combines academic excellence with practical engagement, enabling students to understand and influence the global affairs shaping our world.

Required Modules

Students on the course take modules totalling 180 credits.

Required modules

• Theories, Concepts and Methods in International Relations (40 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits)

If you are a part-time student, you will take Theories, Concepts and Methods in International Relations in your first year, along with 40 credits of optional modules. In your second year you will undertake your dissertation and 40 further credits of optional modules.

• Theories, Concepts and Methods in International Relations

Optional modules

Choose two to four modules (totalling 80 credits) from a range which typically includes:

• The War on Terror: Anglo-American Foreign and Security Policy since 9/11 (20 credits)
• War and Insurgency in the Middle East since 195 (40 credits)
• Interdisciplinary Approaches to (In)Security (20 credits)
• Complex Political Emergencies, Health and Security (40 credits)
• Risk and Uncertainty in Global Politics (20 credits)
• Or any of the other 50 options offered by the department of War Studies

We regularly review our modules to make sure our programmes are as up-to-date, innovative and relevant as possible. The modules we offer may therefore change. We suggest that you check the course finder for updates: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/index.aspx.

• Afghan and South Asian Security
• Civil War In The US 1861-1865
• Comparative Civil Wars (40 Credits)
• Complex Political Emergencies, Health & Security
• Conflict Simulation
• Conflict, Development And Islam In Russia, The Caucasus And Central Asia
• Contemporary British Defence Policy
• Current Issues In Science & Security
• Diplomacy, Intelligence and Armaments Competition: The origins of the Second World War, 1931-1941
• East Asian Security
• Ethics In International Relations (20 Credits)
• Gender In International Politics & Security
• History Of War
• Human Rights in a World of States (20 credits)
• Interdisciplinary Approaches To (In)Security
• International Law & War
• International Politics Of The Middle East
• Media and Intelligence
• Nationalism And Security
• Navies And Seapower, 1793-2001
• Mind, Body And Spirit In The First World War
• Reporting Wars
• Proliferation & International Security
• Propaganda
• Responding to Terrorism
• Seapower And National Strategy
• The Evolution Of Insurgency
• The Science and Security of Nuclear and Biological Weapons
• The Occupied Territories Since 1967
• War and Insurgency in the Middle East since 1945
• Wars Within Wars

• The Diplom Bakalavr or post-1991 Diploma Specialista, with an overall score of 4 out of 5, will be considered for programmes requiring a UK Bachelor (Honours) degree at 2:1.
• A score of 4.5 out of 5 will be considered for more competitive programmes requiring a UK Bachelor (Honours) degree at high 2:1.
• IELTS (Academic)
• TOEFL iBT

Tuition fees for the International Relations undergraduate program at King’s College London vary depending on residency status and are subject to annual increases. For the 2023/2024 academic year, home (UK) students paid approximately £9,250 per year in tuition fees, consistent with the standard undergraduate fee for UK residents. International students, including EU and non-EU students, paid higher tuition fees, typically around £22,650 per year. These fees cover access to university facilities, library resources, and academic support services.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider additional costs such as accommodation, living expenses, learning materials, and personal expenses. Estimated living costs for students studying in London range from £1,200 to £1,500 per month, encompassing accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. On-campus accommodation options vary in price but generally cost between £150 and £300 per week, depending on the type of accommodation and amenities provided. Off-campus housing costs depend on the location and size of the accommodation and are typically higher in central London.

Funding opportunities for International Relations students include government grants, scholarships, and bursaries offered by King’s College London. The university awards a range of scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and nationality. For example, the King’s International Hardship Fund provides financial assistance to international students facing unexpected financial difficulties. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including government scholarship programs, international organization grants, and private scholarships.

Many students finance their studies through part-time work, as university regulations permit working during term time within specified hours. The university’s career services provide resources and advice for securing part-time employment both on and off-campus. Furthermore, some students take advantage of student loan schemes available through their home country or international financial institutions.

Students are advised to budget carefully to cover both tuition and living costs and to explore all available funding options early in their application process. King’s College London also offers guidance on financial planning and managing student finances through its dedicated support services. Overall, studying International Relations at King’s College London involves significant financial planning, but various funding options and support services are available to help students manage the costs associated with their education.

The International Relations programme at King's College London offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex dynamics of global politics, international institutions, conflicts, and diplomacy. This degree provides students with a solid foundation in political theory, international law, and comparative politics, while also emphasizing contemporary issues such as security, human rights, environmental challenges, and economic development. The curriculum is designed to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and research capabilities, enabling graduates to engage effectively with global political processes and policymaking. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of topics, including international organizations, global governance, foreign policy analysis, and regional security studies. The programme benefits from King's College London's strong international connections, renowned research centres, and expert faculty members who are active researchers and practitioners in the field of International Relations.
Throughout their studies, students may participate in internships, model UN conferences, and research projects that enhance their practical understanding of international affairs. The degree prepares students for careers in diplomacy, international NGOs, governmental agencies, journalism, or further academic study. Additionally, the university offers a vibrant campus life with diverse student societies, seminars, and guest lectures that enrich the learning experience. The programme is suitable for students interested in engaging with pressing global issues and seeking to understand the interconnected nature of modern international relations. With the option to specialize in areas such as security studies, international political economy, or human rights, students can tailor their degree to match their career aspirations. Overall, the International Relations programme at King's College London provides an intellectually rigorous environment where students can develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills vital for making meaningful contributions in the international arena.