History and International Relations Lancaster University

When you study History and International Relations at Lancaster you gain unique blend of historical perspectives and contemporary analysis. Explore the complex interplay of past and present and gain a deep understanding of the forces shaping our world today. From the rise and fall of empires to the challenges of globalisation, you will develop the critical thinking skills to tackle important global issues.

Why Lancaster?

• Be inspired by influential academics who shape research and policy at local and global levels, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of History and International Relations from an expert perspective

• Develop a critical insight into an ever-changing global landscape and the complexities of diplomacy

• Connect with our Centre for War and Diplomacy and the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, and access a range of valuable resources

• Learn how to tackle difficult questions with confidence, whilst building transferable skills such as researching, debating, presenting, and writing policy briefs

• Take advantage of one of our internships, giving you the chance to work with external organisations on live projects

Geopolitics: past and present

The BA History and International Relations degree at Lancaster University offers a unique perspective on the rapidly changing global landscape. Our team of experts will equip you with a deep understanding of geopolitics and its historical contexts. You’ll explore the past and develop the critical thinking skills to understand the present, while gaining an appreciation for the complexities of human societies and the critical challenges facing humanity.

The course provides an interdisciplinary exploration of issues of governance, trade, and war, exploring how these forces have shaped world politics and the practices that govern today’s interconnected world. You will learn how to answer difficult questions: What is the impact of new technologies on war and conflict? What are the economic and cultural consequences of globalisation? How can we address the challenges of global inequality and climate change?

Combining a critical approach with practical skills, you will explore the origins of global issues and engage with strategies to tackle the most pressing issues of our time.

Key themes will include:

• A changing global order: Explore the rise of new powers, the decline of old ones, and the implications for global governance

• The future role of the state: Engage with the changing role of states in global politics and their ability to respond to the challenges of our time

• War, (in)security, and conflict: Analyse the changing nature of warfare, and the ways in which society is shaped by challenges to international security

• Global governance and international institutions: Examine the effectiveness of international organisations in addressing global challenges

• Human rights and justice: Investigate the evolution of human rights and the role of international institutions

• Global development and the Global South: Grapple with issues of poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment in the Global South, and investigate the role of international cooperation in addressing these issues

Expert-led learning

This degree is taught by world-class academics: historians who influence the field and experts in International Relations who shape policy debates nationally and internationally. Our specialists are consulted by UK government and international bodies for their expertise in a range of areas, including security studies, global development, and the international and domestic politics of China, Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

On this course you’ll develop valuable research and analysis skills, and become proficient at hunting down the facts, evaluating evidence and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

AAB

Access to HE Diploma

36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level at grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade AB plus BTEC at D

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Distinction overall

GCSE requirements

English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.