Department of International Relations
By studying in the Department of International Relations at Sussex, you develop the skills and knowledge to make a positive contribution to the world.
A wide range of courses
You tailor your course to focus on what truly matters to you. You can take International Relations on its own at undergraduate level, or combine with a range of other subjects, or take electives.
As well as developing a solid grounding in international theories and practices, you choose from optional modules in topics as diverse as the arms trade to religion in international relations.
We believe in student-led teaching and that students learn in different ways. Your progress will be assessed through a diverse range of assessment modes including presentations, learning diaries, book reports, essays, multiple choice tests and concept notes. None of our modules are assessed by exams. We use a variety of teaching methods including lectures, seminars, workshops and interactive lectures.
For our Masters courses, you can choose from a range of courses involving international relations, security and global governance, and at PhD level, our interdisciplinary approach means you can focus your research on your areas of interest.
As we're part of the School of Global Studies, you study alongside students taking courses in International Development, Geography and Anthropology, giving you a broad understanding of International Relations as a subject.
Learn from world-leading experts
As one of the largest International Relations departments in Europe, you learn from experts making a difference across the world in areas including international theory, global political economy, and war, violence and international security.
Real world exposure to international relations
Gain insights into global issues by attending a range of guest lectures and talks with renowned speakers, as well as events through our International Relations Society.
You'll benefit from international work placement and study abroad opportunities across the world, helping you to make global connections.
Get career development support
The skills you develop as an International Relations student at Sussex prepare you for a wide variety of careers, with many of our graduates going onto jobs in leading international organisations, governmental bodies and the global media.
To help you explore your options, you can attend a range of events through our Careers and Employability Centre including talks on how to find work globally, and presentations on applying for jobs in the Government, the Civil Service Fast Stream scheme, NGOs and the not-for-profit sector.