International Relations and Military History (with integrated Foundation Year) Aberystwyth University

Overview

The International Relations and Military History (with integrated Foundation Year) at Aberystwyth University offers a comprehensive exploration into the evolution of global conflict and political strategy. This four-year programme begins with a dedicated foundation year to equip students with essential academic skills before progressing into specialised disciplinary study. Students benefit from being part of the world’s first department dedicated to international politics, gaining insights into how historical warfare continues to shape modern society.

Why International Relations and Military History (with integrated Foundation Year) at Aberystwyth University?

Choosing this programme means joining a prestigious department with over a century of expertise in pioneering warfare studies. Students have access to unique experiential learning opportunities, such as the renowned "Crisis Games," which are immersive role-playing exercises designed to develop high-level negotiation and communication skills. The university also offers a prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme, providing three to four weeks of invaluable experience working alongside Members of Parliament in Westminster or Members of the Senedd in Cardiff.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 19190 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a firm grounding in social sciences before moving into advanced historical and political analysis. In the final year, students complete a substantive dissertation on a chosen specialist topic.

Year 1

• Social Science
• Information in a Post-Truth World
• The "Othered" Migrant
• Representing the Other
• Understanding Change
• Understanding Crime

Year 2

• Exploring the International
• The Making of the Modern World
• Globalization and Global Development
• Politics in the 21st Century
• War, Strategy and Intelligence

Year 3 & 4

• Warfare after Waterloo
• America at War
• Propaganda and Secret Intelligence
• The Arab-Israeli Wars
• The Second World War in Europe
• Strategy and Politics of Nuclear Weapons

Careers with International Relations and Military History (with integrated Foundation Year)

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for diverse professional pathways within the public and private sectors. Many alumni secure roles in diplomacy, the civil service, and government research, while others pursue careers in journalism or with international non-governmental organisations such as the United Nations. The analytical and communication skills developed throughout the degree also support transitions into business, industry, and education. Students are encouraged to enhance their employability through the Year in Employment Scheme and by contributing to the long-running student journal, Interstate.