BA (Honours) in International Relations and Modern Languages in Colchester United Kingdom | University of Essex

What causes international conflicts to emerge? How do nations shape their foreign policies? What possibilities exist for global collaboration to tackle issues like climate change and environmental damage? Political affairs and events dominate both national and international headlines, influencing our daily lives while also molding the future. Your studies begin with a foundation in international relations during the first year, covering areas from global political economy to security and conflict studies. Later, you can choose specialized topics such as: Comparative politics, International political economy, Political theory, or Middle Eastern politics. Additionally, you can learn up to two languages from our offerings: French, German, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese, achieving near-fluency in at least one. These language skills open doors to global careers, as many graduates secure roles with international firms seeking multilingual professionals. If you start a language from scratch through our intensive program, we fund a month-long summer course abroad. Our department ranks 2nd in the UK for research in politics and international studies (REF 2021) and is Top 10 globally (QS 2024). If you seek a globally focused education with practical relevance in a top-tier department, Essex is the place for you. Study Abroad Options: You can spend a year abroad studying at a partner university or working as a language assistant, gaining professional experience while earning. Either option enhances your academic and social growth, proving to employers your adaptability and organizational skills. During a full year abroad, you pay only 15% of Essex tuition fees, with no additional costs at the host institution. Placement Year: Alternatively, undertake a work placement abroad, immersing yourself in another culture while developing language proficiency. While you arrange your placement, our department and career center provide guidance and support.