Global Affairs, Politics and International Relations with a Language BA (Hons)

Apply as Home Student via UCAS Apply as International Student
Request a Prospectus Visit Us
A group of students sitting at desks in a classroom

Available with:

  • Foundation Year

You are viewing Course summary

Course Summary

Embark on an educational journey that transcends borders and cultures with the University of Chester's degree in Global Affairs, Politics and International Relations with a Language. Designed for the global-minded individual, this programme offers an integrated approach to understanding the complex interplay between political, economic and cultural forces shaping our world. 

At the University of Chester, we recognise that in an increasingly interconnected global landscape, proficiency in international affairs and languages is not just an asset but a necessity. Our degree course is meticulously crafted to provide students with a robust understanding of global governance, international conflict resolution and diplomatic strategies. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students gain insights into the dynamics of international relations and global politics. 

Our curriculum is enriched with a language component, allowing students to deepen their global perspective while enhancing their communication skills. Choose from a range of languages and immerse yourself in a new culture, opening doors to diverse career opportunities in diplomacy, international organisations, NGOs or multinational corporations.  

Our experienced staff, comprising accomplished scholars and practitioners, provide personalised guidance, ensuring a learning experience that is both comprehensive and tailored to individual career aspirations. With access to cutting-edge research, internships and a vibrant community of peers from around the world, students are equipped to become influential leaders and changemakers on the global stage. 

Join the University of Chester and shape your future with a degree that offers more than education – it offers a gateway to making a meaningful impact in the world. Apply now and select a language from Chinese, Spanish, French and German to study as part of your degree. 

Why you'll Love it

Multidisciplinary curriculum with language proficiency

Unlike traditional political science programmes, students gain fluency in a foreign language, enhancing their global communication skills and cultural understanding. This combination equips graduates with a competitive edge, enabling them to navigate and influence international landscapes more effectively, whether in diplomacy, global business or international NGOs.

Two people sat at a desk with laptops having a discussion

Real-world experience and global networking opportunities

Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences, including internships with international organisations, diplomatic missions or global corporations. These opportunities are complemented by a network of alumni and professionals in the field, offering valuable connections and insights into the workings of global institutions.

Aerial view of Thames river on a sunny day with the City Financial district skyscrapers and Tower of London

Expert academic team and tailored career guidance

The course is led by a team of expert staff members who are not just educators but also seasoned practitioners in global affairs and international relations. This ensures that the curriculum is grounded in real-world relevance and current global trends. Personalised career guidance, including mentorship and career planning, is provided to align your academic pursuits with your professional goals.

A group of smiling students in a language study class.

What you'llStudy

In their first year, students typically explore foundational concepts in global governance, political theory, and international relations. They also begin intensive language studies, focusing on linguistic skills and cultural context, and are introduced to research methodologies critical for analysing global political and social issues.

In their second year, students typically delve into intermediate topics in international relations theory, global political economy, comparative politics, and specialised language studies. They also explore thematic courses in areas like diplomacy, human rights, and conflict resolution, alongside practical modules in research methods and regional studies.

In their final year, students typically engage in advanced studies of global governance, diplomacy, and international policy analysis, culminating in a capstone project or dissertation. They also achieve higher proficiency in their chosen language, focusing on its use in professional and diplomatic contexts.

Who you'll Learn from

Dr Michael Francis

Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer, Politics
Dr Michael Francis

Dr Rachel Massey

Senior Lecturer, Politics and International Relations
Dr Rachel Massey

Dr Anna Clayfield

Programme Leader for BA Modern Languages & Lecturer in Spanish and Latin American Studies
Dr Anna Clayfield

Dr Brenda Garvey

Deputy Head of Department
A dark grey silhouette on a light grey background

Dr Suzanne Francis

Associate Professor of Conflict Transformation & Peace Studies; Programme Leader, International Relations
Suzanne Francis

Dr Mark Bendall

Senior Lecturer, Politics and International Relations
Dr Mark Bendall

Dr Min Ge

Lecturer in Chinese Studies, Programme Leader BA (Combined Hons) Chinese
Dr Min Ge

Dr Christopher Hull

Programme Leader for BA Spanish, Portuguese & Latin American Studies; Senior Lecturer in Spanish & Latin American Studies
Dr Christopher Hull

Marta Marquez-Fernandez

Senior Lecturer in Spanish
Marta Marquez-Fernandez

Dr Richard Millington

Programme Leader German / Lecturer in German
Dr Richard Millington

Carmen Usategui

Senior Lecturer in Spanish
Carmen Usategui

How you'll Learn

In person lectures, small group seminars, and practical workshops

There are a variety of problem-based learning tasks, coursework and simulations

This course is designed around in-person study

There may be some online learning activities

Our approach to learning and teaching is broad and includes:

Interactive Lectures: Engaging students in interactive lectures that include multimedia presentations, case studies, and open-ended questions to stimulate discussions and critical thinking.

Small Group Discussions: Promoting peer learning, collaboration, and the exchange of diverse perspectives.

Case-Based Learning: Presenting real-life cases for analysis. This allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Research Projects: Research projects that require students to explore specific topics, conduct empirical research, and present their findings.

Ethical Dilemmas and Discussions: Engaging students in discussions about ethical considerations, including topics like oppression, wealth, advocacy, identity, humanitarian support, political systems, and research ethics.

Guest Speakers and Practitioners: Invited guest speakers to share their experiences and insights with students.

Simulation Exercises: Organised simulation exercises where students take on roles.

Beyond the Classroom

On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience.

Our Experiential Overseas Learning module offers a unique opportunity to participate in a short-term placement around the world.

This course offers a Year Abroad option - an exciting opportunity to study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP (International Student Exchange Programs), a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide.

Entry Requirements

112 UCAS points

UCAS Tariff 112 points
GCE A Level Typical offer – BCC-BBC
BTEC BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM
BTEC Diploma: D*D*
International Baccalaureate 26 points
Irish / Scottish Highers Irish Highers: BBBB
Scottish Highers: BBBB
Access requirements Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above
OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR National Extended Diploma - Merit 2
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - DMM
OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma - D*D* 
Extra Information Please note that we accept a maximum of 8 UCAS points from GCE AS Levels and that the Welsh Baccalaureate (core) and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. 

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Where you'll Study Exton Park, Chester

The location

Exton Park is close to the city centre of Chester, a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student. While it is undoubtedly beautiful and packed with history, Chester is also a bustling 21st-century city balancing big-name shopping, eating and living with a thriving independent scene.

Modern learning resources and library

We have dedicated resources and IT services across campus, as well as our Seaborne Library; home to an extensive selection of books, e-books and e-journals, as well as bookable multimedia rooms, video conferencing space, 24-hour access computer labs, and The Hub; a comfortable two-floor study zone, suitable for independent and group study.

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Support Services

Exton Park is home to a number of our central support services, including Disability and Inclusion, Careers and Employability, and Student Support.

Fitness Facilities

Exton Park boasts an impressive choice of indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities, which are used for both competitive and recreational sports. Our facilities include a swimming pool, gym, squash, and tennis courts, running track and two floodlit pitches.

A male student wearing goggles is swimming in the training pool between the red rope lane marker lines.

Chapel, Chaplaincy and Multi-Faith Spaces

Built in 1847 by former students, the University Chapel offers regular services and a venue to services. The University of Chester also has multi-faith spaces across the campus for prayer or quiet reflection.

Accommodation

Most of our student accommodation is located either on or near Exton Park.

Catering

We have several catering outlets available onsite, offering a wide selection of hot and cold food to students and visitors. Term-time Meal Schemes are also available for those students interested in non-residential catering schemes.

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. 

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Graduates of this degree have a wide array of career options, owing to their diverse skill set and knowledge base. Some of these career paths include:

  • Diplomacy and Foreign Service
  • International Organisations
  • Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
  • Multinational Corporations
  • Intelligence and Security Services
  • International Journalism
  • Academia and Research
  • Policy Analysis and Think Tanks
  • Legal Careers
  • Translation and Interpretation

Each of these careers leverages the unique combination of political, cultural, and linguistic expertise gained from a degree in Global Affairs, Politics and International Relations with a Language.

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.