International Studies with Economics: University of Birmingham

This degree combines an interdisciplinary approach to the study of international affairs with a specialised knowledge of economics, particularly international economics. As well as economics, you study international and comparative politics, the theory and practice of international relations, and diplomatic history.

About the department

The Department of Political Science and International Studies, which teaches this programme, is one of the largest and best departments of its type in the UK. It received a score of 5 in the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise (maximum 5*/6) and the maximum score of 24 in the 2001 Teaching Quality Assessment. The department has also enjoyed a consistently high place in the Guardian league tables (never outside the top 10) since these were first published in 2000.

The department has a balance of expertise that covers all areas of the discipline and has long-established strengths in the fields of political theory, European politics, international relations theory, security studies, diplomatic studies, political sociology, political economy, Pacific Asian politics and British politics. It contributes to a wide range of undergraduate teaching programmes ranging from Political Science Single Honours to International Studies with a Language, as well as a range of Joint Honours degree schemes.

First year

You take introductory modules in international studies and economics, which are vital to an understanding of international issues.

Second year

In the second year you build upon this foundation, and have the opportunity to take advanced courses in areas of particular interest.

Third yearIn the third year students take four modules from over 20 options and also undertake a dissertation on a subject of their own choice.

Teaching and assessment

The course is assessed via a range of methods including essays, presentations, exams and a dissertation.

Career opportunities

This programme provides a good analytical training in economics and its application in international relations. The knowledge and skills you develop will make you attractive to employers in many different fields, as demonstrated by the wide variety of rewarding careers our former students are pursuing.

Entry requirements

• Number of A levels required: 3
• Typical offer: ABB
• Required subjects and grades: GCSE Mathematics grade B
• General Studies: accepted
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 34 points

Other qualifications are considered – see the entry requirements section for full details

Contact details

• Admissions Tutor: Dr Nicola Smith
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 7569
• Email: n.j.smith.1@bham.ac.uk

For general information about open days

• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3374
• Website: http://www.undergraduate.bham.ac.uk/visitsopendays/

Main University Switchboard

• Postal address: The University of Birmingham
  Edgbaston
  Birmingham
  B15 2TT
  United Kingdom
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3344
• Fax: +44(0)121 414 3971

Admissions

• Email: admissions@bham.ac.uk
• Tel: +44 (0)121 415 8900
• Website: www.marketing.bham.ac.uk/admissions_recruitment

Student Recruitment

• Email: schools-liaison@bham.ac.uk
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3374
• Website: www.marketing.bham.ac.uk/recruitment

International Relations

• Email: international@bham.ac.uk
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 2894
• Website: www.international.bham.ac.uk