Modern History and International Relations (including Year Abroad)

Modern History and International Relations with Year Abroad at the University of Essex offers an in-depth exploration of the key historical events, political developments, and international dynamics that have shaped the modern world. This programme combines rigorous academic study of historical processes with contemporary issues in international relations, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of global affairs. Throughout the course, students will examine topics such as the causes and consequences of major conflicts, the evolution of political ideologies, and the development of international institutions. The inclusion of a Year Abroad offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a different cultural and academic environment, enhancing their language skills and intercultural competencies. During this year, students typically spend their time studying at a partner university in another country, which broadens their perspectives and deepens their understanding of global issues. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research abilities, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, journalism, and academia. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, seminars, and independent study, with assessments comprising essays, presentations, and examinations. Special modules may cover topics such as human rights, security studies, regional conflicts, and historical methodologies. The Year Abroad is facilitated through established partnerships with universities across Europe, North America, and beyond, offering a variety of options tailored to students’ interests. Students benefit from the expertise of academics who are active researchers and practitioners in their fields, ensuring that the course content remains relevant and engaging. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and digital literacy, which are valuable in a wide range of professional contexts. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue further postgraduate study or to enter the job market with a strong foundation in historical and international analysis. With its combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and cultural immersion, the Modern History and International Relations with Year Abroad programme at the University of Essex provides an exceptional platform for those interested in understanding the complexities of the modern world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking a humanities or social science, then you have the greatest choice, as most of our first-year modules do not assume any specialist knowledge.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available. We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

• The Making of the Modern World, 1776-1989
• Introduction to Politics
• Introduction to International Relations
• And choose 30 credits from a range of History or outside options.

Year 2

• Making Histories: Concepts, themes and sources
• International Relations
• And choose from a range of history and politics options.

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

• History Independent Research Project and
• Choose from a range of history options and politics options.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above).
• We welcome applications from students whose A-levels do not include History.

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

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

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

Modern History and International Relations (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive exploration of historical developments and international political dynamics. The programme is designed to equip students with a nuanced understanding of key events and themes that have shaped the modern world, alongside developing critical skills in analysis, research, and communication. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including the causes and consequences of major conflicts, the evolution of political ideologies, and the functioning of international institutions. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides students with invaluable intercultural experience, language skills, and practical understanding of international relations in a global context. The curriculum combines core modules in modern history with modules in international relations, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. Students will learn through lectures, seminars, independent research, and practical projects, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills, such as critical thinking, essay writing, and oral presentation, which are highly valued in various careers related to politics, academia, journalism, and public policy. The Year Abroad component usually involves studying at a partner university abroad, undertaking internships, or participating in international projects, which enhances employability and global awareness. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in diplomatic service, international organizations, research institutes, or further academic study. The University of Essex provides excellent resources, expert staff, and a vibrant campus community to support student success. Overall, this degree offers a balanced and rigorous approach to understanding the complexities of modern history and the global political landscape, preparing students for active participation in international affairs.