International Relations (Study Abroad)

• Why Lancaster?*

• Untangle the complex issues facing the world, from the food crisis to rising energy costs

• Develop a sophisticated understanding of the world, by joining a department unlike any other in the UK, which combines politics, philosophy and religion

• Learn from our British, Russian, and Middle Eastern politics experts – their research reflects what’s happening in the world right now

• Hone your debating skills and your ability to make a compelling case

• Boost your job prospects, extend your knowledge and make professional contacts with an internship

How do religious beliefs influence politics? What is the best way to approach international crises? Is it possible to create a more peaceful world? Explore these questions and more as you develop the skills that will make you stand out.

How the world works
Human rights. Violence. Security. Make sense of the modern challenges nations face and the powers and limits of the decision makers at the fore of international politics. Studying with us, you’ll examine the concepts and debates at the heart of international politics and look closely at the inner workings of national and international institutions.

This course is run by our Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion, which combines three key disciplines and is the only one of its kind in the UK. You’ll take part in discussions about the latest world events while learning from experts in British, Russian, and Middle Eastern politics.

We regularly invite guest speakers to debate topical issues of major importance. For example, two recent events where students and staff discussed the challenges and ramifications of the war in Ukraine with external speakers.

Discover your interests
Throughout the course, you’ll get the chance to shape your study with optional modules. Perhaps you’ll look at security or sustainability. Or maybe you’ll focus on the politics of a particular country like Russia or China. Whatever you pick, you’ll be taught by experts in that area and explore key political areas.

You’ll have the option to write a dissertation in your final year. This piece of work will be supervised by an academic staff member. You can turn to them for support throughout the whole process, from choosing your topic to carrying out your research and writing it up.

A lively department
Several staff are involved in national and international advisory groups and our students benefit from these connections. We have events such as conferences, talks and seminars taking place throughout the year.

Study abroad
The study abroad option is an exciting opportunity for anyone who is thinking of working abroad during their career or who simply wants the experience of living and studying overseas as part of their degree.

Experience and skills
You will study in your third year at one of our international partner universities. This will help you to
• develop your global outlook
• expand your professional network
• increase your cultural awareness
• develop your personal skills

During your year abroad, you will choose specialist modules relating to your degree and potentially other modules offered by the host university that are specialisms of that university and country. The places available at our overseas partners vary each year, but destinations have previously included Australia, USA, Canada, Europe and Asia.

We will make reasonable endeavours to place students at an approved overseas partner university that offers appropriate modules. Occasionally places overseas may not be available for all students who want to study abroad or the place at the partner university may be withdrawn if core modules are unavailable.
If you are not offered a place to study overseas, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent standard 3-year degree scheme and would complete your studies at Lancaster. Lancaster University cannot accept responsibility for any financial aspects of the year abroad.