Skip to main content
Panoramic collage of university campus architecture

International Relations and Sociology BSc

Aston University, United Kingdom
See University Details Apply with BHE UNI
Save

Course Overview

This degree programme combines the study of international relations with sociology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between global politics, economies, cultures, and societies. Students will gain a deep understanding of the structures, processes, and outcomes of international relations, as well as the role of sociology in shaping our understanding of these phenomena. The programme will also provide students with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and research methods necessary for pursuing careers in fields such as diplomacy, foreign policy, development, and human rights.

Additional Information

This programme is ideal for students who are interested in pursuing a career in international relations or sociology, and want to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The course will provide students with a range of skills, including critical thinking, cultural awareness, research methods, and the ability to analyze complex global issues.

A Leading Institution for International Relations and Sociology: Why Choose Aston University?

Aston University is a leading institution for the study of international relations and sociology, with a strong reputation for producing well-rounded graduates who are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in these fields. The university's location in Birmingham provides easy access to a range of cultural and economic institutions, including the United Nations and the European Union. Additionally, Aston University has a strong track record of research excellence in the field of international relations and sociology, with faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields.

Why You Should Study This Course

In this program, youll explore the major political and social issues faced by governments across the world. You will develop a knowledge and understanding of the international state system, the structure, and purpose of international organizations, and the roles played by international institutions, other intergovernmental organizations, multinational corporations, and NGOs. Important strengths of the program include its focus on key contemporary issues in international relations and policy, such as global economic change and the environment as well as international comparisons of government policies. On the sociology strand of the course, youll gain an in-depth understanding of social processes, organizational dynamics, and inter-group relationships. We explore the social constraints we encounter in our everyday lives and how they are reinforced by class, race, religion, and gender. To understand how these issues perpetuate existing inequalities and unequal life chances, we analyze how politics is intertwined with the profit-making aims pursued by big corporations and how their combined interests dominate our social imaginations. When learning about contemporary topics such as inequality, racism, health, migration, sexuality, identity, education, the media, crime, and climate change, you will be taught by experts in these fields.

General Eligibility

BBC (standard offer) BCC (with EPQ or Core Maths minimum grade B) CCC (contextual offer*) IB- 29 points overall with grades 5, 5, 4 in 3 higher level subjects. Standard level Maths and English grade 5 required in lieu of GCSE English and Maths grade C/4.

What You'll Study

1 Final Year
Core modules: Dissertation (Sociology or International Relations) Optional modules: A Great Misunderstanding: Britain and the EU African Politics: From the Colonial Period to the Present Day America in the World The American Presidency BRICS and Emerging Power Shifts in World Politics Chinese Politics and Society Conflict and Intervention Democracy, Authoritarianism and Regime Change Diplomacy and Soft Power Ethics and International Relations EuroSim: Learning Negotiation through Simulation Games Gender and Politics Interest Groups and Lobbying International Institutions Nationalism and Political Power Political Communication Leaders and Leadership: Case Studies and Comparative Perspectives Politics and Islam: Past and Present Politics and Protest in a Globalised World Politics of Development Religion and Politics in Contemporary Europe Sport and Politics The International Relations of East Asia The Populist Radical Right in Europe Understanding Foreign Policy Debates in Contemporary British Politics Changing Patterns of Warfare Intelligence Agencies and the Modern World – MI6, CIA, and ISI Political Parties Work, Organisations, and Society Bodies, Power and Resistance Contemporary Social Movements Pregnancy and Politics Education and Digital Society Religion and Society Corporate Power in a Globalised World Migration, Borders, and Belonging Health Policy The Challenges of Climate Change Community Engagement
2 Year 1
Core modules: Introduction to the Concepts and Methods of International Relations Introduction to the European Union Introduction to Social Theory Becoming a Social Scientist Optional modules: The Making of the Modern World What’s Trending (Current Affairs in Politics and International Relations)
3 Year 2
Core modules: International Relations: Theories Critical Approaches to Security Studies Advanced Social Theory Research Methods Optional modules: West European Politics and Society Russian and East European Politics and Society North American Politics and Society East Asian Politics and Society: China and Japan South Asian Politics and Society International Relations in Political Thought Security Studies: Theories and Issues The Politics and Policies of the European Union International Political Economy Advanced Research Methods Global Society Embodiment and Feminist Theory Media and Society Kith and Kin The Social Life of Stuff Crime, Subversion, and Injustice Racisms Contested Cities Welfare States and Welfare Change Organizing for Social Justice
4 Year 3
This course is available as a 3 year BSc without placement or a 4 year BSc with an integrated sandwich placement. Both options are available to home, EU, and international students.

Language Requirement

  • IELTS5.5
  • TOEFL59
  • PTE50
  • Duolingo69
IELTS Overall 6.0, Reading, Writing Listening, Speaking 5.5. Financial requirement You’ll need to show you have enough money to support yourself - unless you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application. How much money you need depends on where you will be studying. You’ll need either: £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses inside London If you’re applying for the Doctorate Extension Scheme, and you’ve been in the UK for less than 12 months, you need to prove you have a total of £2,668 for courses in London, or a total of £2,046 for courses outside London. If you’re boarding at a residential independent school, you’ll need to pay boarding fees instead. The amount you need to pay will be on your CAS. London means the City of London and the 32 London boroughs.

Similar Courses

Other programmes you might be interested in.

Undergraduate

BA (Hons) History

De Montfort University · £9,250
Undergraduate

International Relations BA (Hons)

Coventry University · £9,250, £15,000
Undergraduate

BA (Hons) International Relations

University of Chester · £9,250

Ready to get started?

For any enquiries or further details, please don't hesitate to contact us. Let's take the next step in your academic journey together.

Contact Us
Call
WhatsApp
Email