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  • Nutrition
  • Pharmacy
  • Philosophy
  • Physician Associate
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  • Psychology
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  • Accounting
  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Animal Science
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Architectural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Building and Surveying
  • Business and Management

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  • Classics and Classical Studies
  • Climate Science
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management
  • Consumer Behaviour and Marketing
  • Creative Writing
  • Drama
  • Ecology
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • English Language and Applied Linguistics
  • English Literature
  • Environment

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  • Medical Sciences
  • Meteorology and Climate
  • Museum Studies

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  • Nutrition
  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmacy
  • Philosophy
  • Physician Associate Studies
  • Politics and International Relations
  • Psychology
  • Real Estate and Planning
  • Spanish
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Surveying and Construction
  • Teaching
  • Theatre & Performance

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  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Zoology

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  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Animal Sciences
  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Business (Post-Experience)
  • Business and Management (Pre-Experience)
  • Chemistry
  • Classics and Ancient History
  • Climate Science
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management and Engineering
  • Consumer Behaviour
  • Creative Enterprise
  • Creative Writing

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  • Data Science
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Energy and Environmental Engineering
  • Engineering
  • English Language and Applied Linguistics
  • English Literature
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Film, Theatre and Television
  • Finance
  • Food and Nutritional Sciences
  • Geography and Environmental Science
  • Graphic Design

Subjects H-P

  • Healthcare
  • History
  • Information Management and Digital Business
  • Information Technology
  • International Development and Applied Economics
  • Languages and Cultures
  • Law
  • Linguistics
  • Management
  • Meteorology and Climate
  • Microbiology
  • Nutrition
  • Pharmacy
  • Philosophy
  • Physician Associate
  • Politics and International Relations
  • Project Management
  • Psychology
  • Public Policy

Subjects Q-Z

  • Real Estate and Planning
  • Social Policy
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Strategic Studies
  • Teacher training
  • Theatre
  • Typography and Graphic Communication
  • War and Peace Studies
  • Zoology

BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year - September Entry

  • UCAS code
    L257
  • Typical offer
  • Year of entry
    2022/23 See 2023/24 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  4 Years
  • Year of entry
    2022/23 See 2023/24 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  4 Years

COVID-19 update


Find out how we're adapting during COVID-19.

BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year for international students

If you want to study politics at a British university but don’t have the correct qualifications, our four-year BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year programme enables you to undertake an undergraduate politics and international relations degree.

You will complete a foundation year (called Year 0) before progressing onto our three-year BA Politics and International Relations degree. This means you can apply for a single four-year visa that covers the whole duration of your studies.

The foundation year is designed to equip you with the subject-specific and general study skills needed to cope with the demands of undergraduate study. Our high-quality teaching is geared towards the needs of students from a wide range of educational backgrounds.

For more information, visit the International Foundation Programme website.

Overview

BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year for international students

If you want to study politics at a British university but don’t have the correct qualifications, our four-year BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year programme enables you to undertake an undergraduate politics and international relations degree.

You will complete a foundation year (called Year 0) before progressing onto our three-year BA Politics and International Relations degree. This means you can apply for a single four-year visa that covers the whole duration of your studies.

The foundation year is designed to equip you with the subject-specific and general study skills needed to cope with the demands of undergraduate study. Our high-quality teaching is geared towards the needs of students from a wide range of educational backgrounds.

For more information, visit the International Foundation Programme website.

Entry requirements

GCSE

Grades A*– C (9-4) in five subjects

IELTS

A minimum overall score of 5.5 in IELTS, with no component below 5.5.

See our IFP English Qualifications page for full details of the academic and English language entry requirements for this course.

Further requirements

If you are an international student planning to apply for one of our degree programmes, you may need to take a foundation course or pre-sessional course if you do not have qualifications that are equivalent to British A levels or if you need to improve your English language level.

  • Look at entry requirements by country.
  • Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme.

Structure

  • Foundation year
  • Year 1
  • Year 2
  • Year 3

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Academic Skills

Code:

IF0ACA

Convenor:

MR Robert Pitt

Summary:

The module aims to help students develop their academic study skills in order to be successful on the International Foundation Programme and as undergraduates. Course content will be delivered through a combination of lectures and practical workshops as well as online delivery to include screenscasts, narrated powerpoints, live sessions and discussion boards. Students can successfully complete the module on campus or remotely.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Assignment 30%, Oral 20%, Report 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
IF0ACA Academic Skills MR Robert Pitt

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

International English A

Code:

IF0IE1

Convenor:

DR Noor Mat Nayan

Summary:

The module will provide the necessary basis in English for study at undergraduate degree level. The focus of the module is on developing and applying skills in English for academic purposes. This module aims to develop the language skills of students who have already achieved an overall IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent in Academic English. Delivery of the module is offered face-to-face and online.

This module is delivered at University of Reading and University of Reading Malaysia

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 15%, Oral 5%, Portfolio 10%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Information Systems and Statistics

Code:

IF0ISS

Convenor:

DR James Appleby

Summary:

Information systems underpin every aspect of our daily life. An awareness of statistical analysis is key for understanding data. This module covers both of these important topics and helps you develop the key theoretical, practical and numerical skills to help you succeed in your future study in subjects across the University. 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Politics

Code:

PO0POL

Convenor:

DR Dawn Clarke

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with a good basic understanding of the nature of political institutions and ideologies and assist them to develop the ability to interpret and analyse political information and evaluate arguments.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 40%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Sociology

Code:

PO0SOC

Convenor:

DR Dawn Clarke

Summary:

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theories, methods and topics within sociology. To critically appraise the development of key institutions within society, and provide a sociological perspective to social problems within society.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 40%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Economics

Code:

EC0ECO

Convenor:

DR Maria Asensio

Summary:

This module introduces students to the basic principles of economics from the concepts of demand and supply and their influence on the prices of goods and the behaviour of firms, to the wider impacts on the national economy:economic growth, unemployment, inflation and international trade.

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Set exercise 20%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Mathematics for Finance, Economics and Business

Code:

EC0MEB

Convenor:

DR Rehana Bari

Summary:

To provide a solid grounding in the key elements of pure mathematics and statistics to a good A-level standard for students approaching a degree in economics, finance, management or business.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 10%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Law

Code:

LW0LAW

Convenor:

MS Sharon Sinclair-Graham

Summary:

To prepare students for undergraduate programmes which involve the study of law by providing a grounding in the main principles of Contract Law, the Tort of Negligence and the structure of the English legal system.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Assignment 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
IF0IE1 International English A DR Noor Mat Nayan
IF0ISS Information Systems and Statistics DR James Appleby
PO0POL Politics DR Dawn Clarke
PO0SOC Sociology DR Dawn Clarke
EC0ECO Economics DR Maria Asensio
EC0MEB Mathematics for Finance, Economics and Business DR Rehana Bari
LW0LAW Law MS Sharon Sinclair-Graham

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Degree Core Competencies

Code:

PO1DCC

Convenor:

DR Vladimir Rauta

Summary:

The module will introduce students to key strategies and academic skills necessary to support their undergraduate studies. Students will engage with a series of key competences that will underpin three years of steadily more independent academic progression, including writing, referencing, presenting, teamwork and engaging with feedback. It will include the development of key skills to facilitate transition and adjustment to developing independent learning and building personal and academic strengths. The module will also explore a range of challenges frequently encountered by students along with coping strategies and advice on accessing the network of support available. There will also be opportunities for students to develop an understanding of how skills developed throughout their degree transfer to the workplace. 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Contemporary Democracy

Code:

PO1ICD

Convenor:

DR Christoph Arndt

Summary:

The module is intended to open students’ eyes to how democracy works or does not work around the world today. The first section on the Origins of Democracy looks globally at where democratic and non-democratic systems exist and what factors determine this distribution. We then look at the Arab Spring, varieties of political systems and electoral systems, political parties and voting in the following sections. Finally, we cover interest organisations and referendums. The examples and evidence are based on the UK, but also include comparisons beyond the UK where appropriate.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Political Ideas

Code:

PO1IPI

Convenor:

DR Rob Jubb

Summary:

An introduction to political theory, covering central topics like the state and its authority, democracy, rights and liberty, equality and social justice, and war and intervention, as well as some of the basic methods for understanding them all. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Politics: International Relations and Strategic Studies

Code:

PO1IRS

Convenor:

DR Vladimir Rauta

Summary:

The module introduces some of the key concepts in world politics: states, anarchy, power, and interest. This broad conceptual framework is linked to a discussion of the three main theories of international relations: realism, liberalism, and constructivism. The module also evaluates arguments about the centrality and utility of the use of force in dealing with security and strategic problems by asking: Why do states go to war? What is strategy and how does it link to warfare? Is it useful to differentiate between rebels and terrorists? Are nuclear weapons still relevant in a world facing the threats of climate change and pandemics?

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
PO1DCC Degree Core Competencies DR Vladimir Rauta
PO1ICD Introduction to Contemporary Democracy DR Christoph Arndt
PO1IPI Introduction to Political Ideas DR Rob Jubb
PO1IRS Politics: International Relations and Strategic Studies DR Vladimir Rauta

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

British Society

Code:

PO1BRI

Convenor:

DR Dawn Clarke

Summary:

The module draws on theories and approaches from Politics, Sociology, Psychology, History and Philosophy to consider some of the main contours of contemporary British Society. The module will explore a number of images of Britain including: Britain as a Welfare State, Multicultural Britain and Britain as a Class Society. It will also explore crime and deviance in Britain, the role of the mass media and the increasing power of the food industry. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Freedom

Code:

PO1FRE

Convenor:

DR Andrew Reid

Summary:

This module provides an inter-disciplinary approach to the subject of freedom, with contributions from four different departments of the University: Classics, Law, Philosophy, and Politics. Students will explore a range of different perspectives on the idea of freedom, and will examine the different ways in which freedom is valued and regulated in a variety of settings. Students will work both individually and within groups to prepare their assignments, and there are a variety of written and oral assessments.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Oral 40%, Report 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Inequality

Code:

PO1INE

Convenor:

DR Jonathan Golub

Summary:

Inequality is everywhere around us: different individuals earn different salaries, people of different genders and backgrounds have access to different economic opportunities, and those at the top of the income distribution have radically distinct life chances than those at the bottom. What explains rising inequality, is it fair and what are the consequences? Should anything be done to reduce inequality, and if so, what? This course aims to answer these questions by providing students with the analytical tools and knowledge to understand and explain the evolution of earnings, racial and gender inequality over time and its variation across developed countries. It also considers the economic, normative and political implications of different forms of inequality, in particular gender and racial inequality. Is inequality at the top of the income distribution (i.e. the 1% v. the rest of us) the inevitable outcome of a well-functioning market system or does it suggest problems in the way democracy works? Does inequality undermine democracy for instance by affecting political participation or increasing the appeal of non-liberal populist parties? Take the course and you will find out more about these fascinating questions and more!

Assessment Method:

Assignment 40%, Oral 10%, Project 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Politics of Climate Change

Code:

PO1PCC

Convenor:

Summary:

Climate change is the defining issue of this century with a range of severe consequences predicted. This module introduces students to important political challenges and debates on climate change, analysing how and why decisions are made as well as some of the underlying ethical issues. At the outset the drivers and challenges of climate change will be assessed, along with models of sustainable development, carbon accounting and carbon footprint offshoring. These will be assessed in the context of international negotiations, climate justice, public opinion, party politics, and policymaking at the national and sub national level. At the end of the course students will have developed a clear understanding of the politics and contested nature of sustainable climate solutions.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

War and Warfare

Code:

PO1WAR

Convenor:

Summary:

This is an introductory module for students seeking foundational knowledge of war in international relations. The emphasis will be on concepts and types of war, their causes, and how they relate to real world issues in international relations and international security. By thinking through and examining a subset of wars and types of warfare the ultimate objective is to have students embrace a range of theoretical arguments about both historical and contemporary examples, to apply these insights to current debates about war in international relations and to prepare students for future scholarly research and security/strategy-focused analysis. The module draws on the department’s international longstanding reputation and robust intellectual tradition in the study of war, strategy and the uses of military force, and embeds in its teaching the department’s links with the British security and defence establishment, evidenced by the links with the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Marketing

Code:

AP1EM1

Convenor:

MR Nick Walker

Summary:

Gain fundamental knowledge of the key concepts of marketing and relate these critically to contemporary practice. Examine traditional approaches to marketing such as strategic marketing, segmentation, targeting and positioning, as well as the marketing mix, and discuss issues arising within marketing theory and practice, which bring into question some of the foundational principles of the discipline. Through lectures, readings, and the analysis of case studies, address the latest thinking within the marketing discipline.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Management

Code:

AP1SB1

Convenor:

PROF Julian Park

Summary:

This module provides a contemporary and comprehensive introduction to management science and its relevance to businesses. Interactive in-class activities and the use of online apps will help you learn techniques for inspiring teamwork in an organisation context, discover the importance of strategic management design for achieving an organisation's goals, and understand the roles of the manager and the responsibilities this carries. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain hands-on practising decision making through case studies. Furthermore, develop your leadership skills to motivate and guide a team towards the achievement of an organisation’s objectives.  

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Roman History: the rise and fall of the Republic

Code:

CL1RH

Convenor:

DR Andreas Gavrielatos

Summary:

This module investigates the mid- and late Republican history of Rome (2nd century BC to late first century BC), a period marked by profound socio-political changes which ultimately led to the crisis of the Republican institutions. It introduces students to the main types of evidence for ancient history and to modern methodological approaches.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Ancient Song

Code:

CL1SO

Convenor:

PROF Ian Rutherford

Summary:

This module introduces students to the lyric poetry of ancient Greece and Rome, studying authors from both civilisations and considering a range of thematic approaches to the surviving corpus of poetry. It is intended to be suitable for beginners and for those who have studied some ancient literature before; there is no language requirement, but there will be an opportunity for students who do have relevant skills to employ them in their coursework and exams.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Texts, Readers, and Writers

Code:

CL1TR

Convenor:

PROF Eleanor Dickey

Summary:

This module explores the history of texts, reading, and writing in the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. We shall look at literature, papyri, inscriptions, letters, Linear B, etc. Attention will also be given to the invention of the alphabet and to ancient writing materials and technologies. No knowledge of Latin, ancient Greek, or the ancient world more generally is required.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 40%, Set exercise 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

The Economics of Climate Change

Code:

EC110

Convenor:

DR Stefania Lovo

Summary:

The module will offer an economic perspective on the causes and consequences of climate change. It will provide an introduction to key theoretical concepts, such as externalities and public goods, and to the policy tools available to devise adequate responses to climate change, such as command and control measures, taxation and subsidies. The module will also introduce national and international policy approaches in dealing with climate change and provide an overview of their implications for economic development.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Class test 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Modernisms & Mythologies

Code:

FA1MM

Convenor:

DR James Hellings

Summary:

This module will provide a broad, introductory survey of key developments in the history, theory and criticism of art during the modern period. Its starting point will be theories of the development of modernity and its social, political and economic components, and the ways in which modern art functions in and on its historical contexts. It will continue to look at the retrospective modernist critical and theoretical accounts of modern art's development.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Approaches to Film

Code:

FT1ATF

Convenor:

DR Adam O'Brien

Summary:

How do films tell stories, make meanings, and contribute to our culture? What questions can, and should, we ask of a film?

This module includes a mix of cinema screenings, seminars and lectures, exploring a range of fiction and non-fiction films. Class discussions and assignments will challenge students to explore the meanings and cultural significance of moving images, across the 20th and 21st centuries.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Analysing Theatre and Performance

Code:

FT1ATP

Convenor:

DR Matt McFrederick

Summary:

How do theatrical stories allow us to examine and reimagine our impression of the world today?  What practical qualities do theatre makers return to - or reinvent - in creating meaning in performance?

In this introduction to theatre and performance, you will share your interpretations and expand the ways you see and think about theatre in relation to the world today. You will learn how to be a confident spectator and reader of theatre through a range of diverse and topical performances in local or in London-based venues - previous trips have included the National Theatre, RSC Live, Peking Opera, the West End and smaller, innovative fringe venues.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Comedy on Stage and Screen

Code:

FT1CSS

Convenor:

DR Simone Knox

Summary:

This module gives you the opportunity to study comedy on stage and screen, encompassing film, television, theatre and stand-up comedy. You will engage with the relevant critical vocabulary and contextual knowledge to explore how humour is created, consumed and debated, across a range of genres and practices. Case studies may include classic and contemporary film comedies (e.g. screwball comedy, black comedy); musical comedies (e.g.?The Book of Mormon); stand-up comedy (e.g. Ali Wong, Hannah Gadsby); sitcoms (e.g.?Friends); or the work of specific creative practitioners (e.g. Joe Orton). 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Intercultural Competence and Communication

Code:

IL1GICC

Convenor:

MS Joan McCormack

Summary:

In this module students develop skills and understanding needed for working in the multi-cultural global workplace. In the Autumn term it will consider intercultural competence and communication from a range of disciplinary perspectives, including psychology, education, inclusivity, business, language and discourse. In the Spring term students will apply their knowledge to define and explain a defined a real-world issue.

The module will be delivered at the University of Reading Whiteknights campus

Assessment Method:

Oral 10%, Portfolio 30%, Project 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Globalization and Language

Code:

LS1GL

Convenor:

DR Tony Capstick

Summary:

In this module students will explore the role of language in globalization. They will examine the reasons for the spread of languages around the globe historically and in the future (especially in the context of political developments such as Brexit, and the increasing importance of World languages such as English). They will also explore debates about linguistic imperialism and the political dimensions of language use and language policies. Finally, they will explore the effects of technology and migration on the linguistic situation in Latin America, New Zealand and the Middle East, including how urban centers are becoming increasingly multilingual and ‘superdiverse’, and the political and social consequences of this. Teaching is drawn from across the School of Literature and Language.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 10%, Project 90%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Greats of European Cinema

Code:

ML1GEC

Convenor:

DR Marta Simo-Comas

Summary:

The aim of this module is to provide students with an understanding of the ways in which European Cinema – and the various national cinemas that comprise it – reflects the changing political, social and cultural climate of the twentieth century. The course is designed to introduce students to key features of film analysis and to develop their ability to apply these to the films studied.

Assessment Method:

Exam 55%, Set exercise 45%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Linguistics

Code:

ML1IL

Convenor:

MR Federico Faloppa

Summary:

This module aims to familiarise students with principles in general linguistics, and to give students an overall picture of what a language is, how it works, and what its main structures are, with a particular focus on French, German, Italian and Spanish. It will also provide useful meta-linguistic competence which can be applied to the study of any other language.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 40%, Oral 20%, Set exercise 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Student Enterprise

Code:

MM1F10

Convenor:

DR Lebene Soga

Summary:

This is a dynamic module introducing students to key concepts of business start-up. Students work in a team to identify and develop a new business opportunity, and then seek to test their idea through ‘lean start-up’ experiments. Students will be introduced to key concepts of entrepreneurial management including design thinking, business model creation, entrepreneurial finance and marketing. This is a highly interactive and practical module, with a focus on experiential learning.


 

Assessment Method:

Project 60%, Class test 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

The Science of Climate Change

Code:

MT1CC

Convenor:

PROF Nigel Arnell

Summary:

This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Global Justice

Code:

PP1GJ

Convenor:

MISS Michela Bariselli

Summary:

Global traditions of philosophy  from the Buddha and Confucius to Simone Weil, Frantz Fanon, Martin Luther King Jr., and African and Native American thinkers advocate ideas of justice and freedom that extend far beyond contemporary conceptions. This course shows how these thinkers question our  ideas of justice, and  transform how we approach injustice and freedom in the  context of race and colonialism, nature and  indigenous communities, identity  and sexuality, family and polity, through radically different conceptions of freedom and violence,  love, equality and harmony.

Some of the claims we will examine include: Justice is freedom from suffering!  Revolutionary violence is cathartic and emancipatory! Political justice  requires mental training! Nature is alive and has rights! Gender and sexual freedom are gained by  dissolving bodily boundaries!  Truth lies in pleasure! Justice is  love! Social justice comes with harmonising differences! 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 70%, Oral 20%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

The Meaning of Life

Code:

PP1ML

Convenor:

DR Luke Elson

Summary:

What is the meaning of life? This is perhaps the most important philosophical question we can ask. What is the answer? Indeed, what is the question really asking? In this module, we seek the answers. Along the way, we will consider a series of fascinating questions which promise to enlighten our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. What makes life worth living? Is there any reason to fear death? Could life in artificial reality be better or more fulfilling than life in the real world?

Reading:

A list of required readings will be posted online. All or nearly all core readings are available electronically.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Reason and Argument

Code:

PP1RA

Convenor:

DR Jumbly Grindrod

Summary:

This module enhances students’ ability to understand and construct complex arguments through the study of logic and the psychology of human reasoning. Reading: A module guide will be available. Recommended: Jamie Carlin Watson and Robert Arp, Critical Thinking: An Introduction to Reasoning Well, 2nd edition, Bloomsbury, 2015.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Radical Philosophy

Code:

PP1RP

Convenor:

DR George Mason

Summary:

From Plato and Marx to contemporaries like Judith Butler, Slavoj Zizek, and Catharine MacKinnon, there is a long tradition of radicalism in philosophy. This course is about how radical philosophy can usefully question our deepest assumptions and challenge our deepest beliefs. Poets should be outlawed from our society! We can secure knowledge by doubting everything! Capitalism will be destroyed by the very forces it creates! Gender is a social performance! Pornography silences women! Torture is permissible in extreme circumstances, e.g. post 9/11! These are some of the claims this course investigates philosophically.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to Psychology

Code:

PY1IPY

Convenor:

DR Katie Barfoot

Summary:

This module is delivered at the University of Reading, for students who are interested in but not studying Psychology.  

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

What the font? Making and using typefaces

Code:

TY1WTF

Convenor:

DR Matthew Lickiss

Summary:

You are surrounded by fonts. Social media, text messages, email, branding, advertising, websites, books, magazines … Human (and machine) communication relies extensively on fonts, but what do you really know about them? How and why are new fonts created? And is it ever OK to use comic sans?! This module will introduce you to the world of typeface design, exploring the history, theory, and practice of making and using fonts and giving you the opportunity to design a typeface of your own. No background in design is required.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
PO1BRI British Society DR Dawn Clarke
PO1FRE Freedom DR Andrew Reid
PO1INE Inequality DR Jonathan Golub
PO1PCC Politics of Climate Change
PO1WAR War and Warfare
AP1EM1 Introduction to Marketing MR Nick Walker
AP1SB1 Introduction to Management PROF Julian Park
CL1RH Roman History: the rise and fall of the Republic DR Andreas Gavrielatos
CL1SO Ancient Song PROF Ian Rutherford
CL1TR Texts, Readers, and Writers PROF Eleanor Dickey
EC110 The Economics of Climate Change DR Stefania Lovo
FA1MM Modernisms & Mythologies DR James Hellings
FT1ATF Approaches to Film DR Adam O'Brien
FT1ATP Analysing Theatre and Performance DR Matt McFrederick
FT1CSS Comedy on Stage and Screen DR Simone Knox
IL1GICC Intercultural Competence and Communication MS Joan McCormack
LS1GL Globalization and Language DR Tony Capstick
ML1GEC Greats of European Cinema DR Marta Simo-Comas
ML1IL Introduction to Linguistics MR Federico Faloppa
MM1F10 Student Enterprise DR Lebene Soga
MT1CC The Science of Climate Change PROF Nigel Arnell
PP1GJ Global Justice MISS Michela Bariselli
PP1ML The Meaning of Life DR Luke Elson
PP1RA Reason and Argument DR Jumbly Grindrod
PP1RP Radical Philosophy DR George Mason
PY1IPY Introduction to Psychology DR Katie Barfoot
TY1WTF What the font? Making and using typefaces DR Matthew Lickiss

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Core modules include:

  • The study of politics

Optional modules include:

  • American government and politics
  • British government and politics
  • Comparative government and politics
  • European political integration
  • Model United Nations
  • Modern international relations
  • Political classics
  • Political thinking
  • Politics of the welfare state
  • Study Abroad
  • The media and politics
  • Work placement project
Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Core modules include:

  • Dissertation

Optional modules include:

  • Intelligence, war and international relations
  • War, peace and international ethics
  • British foreign and defence policy since 1945
  • Comparative political economy
  • Contemporary power politics
  • Crime and punishment: theoretical approaches
  • Democracy and democracy promotion
  • Feminism and political theory
  • International political economy
  • International terrorism
  • Introduction to critical security studies
  • Nationalism
  • Parliamentary studies
  • Politics and international relations of the Middle East
  • Politics of the international economy
  • Strategic theory
  • Strategy in the two World Wars
  • The UN and international order
  • Toleration: theory and practice
  • US Foreign and defence policy since 1950
  • United Kingdom politics since 1960
Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £19,500

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional Costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Careers

Through this course you will develop strong analytical and research skills, as well as become experienced in delivering presentations and working in a group. These skills are valued by employers in many industries, giving you the option of roles that are directly related to your degree or in completely different fields. Our combination of skills development, placements and practical modules has meant that 91% of our graduates from the Department of Politics and International Relations are in work or further 15 months after graduating [1].

Past students have put their political analysis skills to direct use in the British and European civil services, political research units, think tanks, non-governmental organisations and journalism. Others have gone into advertising, retail, management consultancy, media and banking.

[1] Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/19; First Degree, Postgraduate (Taught) and Postgraduate (Research) responders from Economics.

Raj discusses Politics and International Relations

Contextual offers


We make contextual offers for all our courses.

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Chat to our students

I always had an interest in UK Politics, so modules like ‘Parliamentary Studies’ allowed me to dive in deep about how our Government works, but at the same time the module ‘British Government’ allowed me to go on the ground, put my knowledge to the test and see what the outcomes would be like in the real world.

Evan Hall
BA Politics and International Relations

Related Subjects


  • Politics and International Relations
  • International Relations
  • International Foundation Programme (IFP)

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