UCAS CODES: L240- 4 YEARS
Degree
BA (Hons)
UK & US Degree
Duration
3 or 4 Years
Tuition Fees
UK – £9,250
EU, INT & US – £17,500
Scholarships
Option to fast-track your degree: complete the UK/US four-year degree in three years.
Richmond is the only university in the UK where the degree programmes are based on the US educational approach, which takes four years to complete. However, with our new programme structure students can complete it in three years. Applicants can leverage their A Levels or equivalent qualifications to fast-track their degree, often completing it in just three years. For example, UK A Levels grades BBC-BBB and above are counted as credits for the first year of the degree. Please check the Entry Requirements section for more information.
With our unique American liberal arts and UK combined approach to teaching, our undergraduate degrees ensure students receive a well-rounded learning experience, nurturing critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills. Students explore diverse perspectives and develop a broad understanding of the world, preparing them for a variety of career paths.
Students will take the following degree paths based on their previous qualifications achieved. There are three different paths to achieve the degree.
The study of International Relations has never been more relevant in a world where global connections are constantly evolving through trade, migration, the internet, and social media.
This BA (Hons) International Relations programme at Richmond American University London degree blends the disciplines of politics, economics, history, and law, providing you with a deep understanding of the ever-changing global political landscape.
With such a broad and engaging curriculum, our graduates succeed in diverse fields, including international organisations, business, finance, government institutions, agencies, and the media.
Strong Foundations
Your journey in International Relations begins with a solid grounding in three core areas:
These foundational studies will equip you with the analytical tools needed to understand and navigate the complexities of global politics.
Specialise and Focus
The degree is designed to support your academic growth and specialisation as you advance through your degree. Whether your interest lies in the International Relations of specific regions such as the USA, Latin America, the EU, Asia, Russia, Africa, or the Middle East, you’ll find courses that allow you to focus on these areas.
We’ll introduce you to the key concepts and approaches within the study of International Relations, encouraging you to critically analyse, interpret, and evaluate world political events and issues. You’ll explore a wide range of topics, including security, nationalism, and warfare, as well as the politics of international law, global economic systems, and issues facing developing states.
As with all Richmond programmes, you’ll earn both a UK and US degree, enhancing your global career prospects.
This degree programme not only equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in International Relations but also provides a truly global perspective, preparing you to make a meaningful impact on the world stage. Whether you aspire to work in diplomacy, international business, or global policy, the BA (Hons) International Relations at Richmond is your gateway to a world of opportunities.
This course introduces students to both the study of International Relations (IR) and key issues in contemporary global politics. Conflict, cooperation, and power are unpacked and addressed while the course introduces and reflects on the fundamental approaches, concepts, and theories used in the discipline. Issues to which these are applied then include migration, the relationship between humans and the environment, terrorism, security, and disinformation. Throughout, different actors, institutions and ideas are engaged with as the course assesses contemporary global politics through an array of contemporary case studies.
Rich World, Poor World provides students with an introduction to development studies, seeking to explain both the existence of and persistence of a Poor World in the context of the international order. The course addresses numerous issues as they affect the Poor World, and studies relations both within and between Poor World and Rich World. Theories of development are reflected upon along with the legacies of colonialism, and a range of other social, political and economic themes in development studies.
This course provides students with an introduction to modern political thought as it developed in the Western World. It critically examines concepts at the core of political life, including freedom, equality, power, difference, and the state. The origins of political ideologies are discovered and explored through the study of major authoritarian, liberal, radical and conservative political thinkers from the C15th onwards, such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Wollstonecraft, Marx, J. S. Mill, and Nietzsche.
This course is designed to develop students’ critical research and writing skills to be effective in the academic and professional world. It focuses on principles of good scholarship and academic practice that will be required throughout university study and in a future professional work environment. These skills are enhanced throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, successful students will become confident in using available resources to produce well-researched writing that demonstrates critical engagement with a self-selected research topic.
This course introduces students to the major events and themes of the Cold War, demonstrating how it shaped the modern world system. In addition to providing students with a foundational understanding of the major themes and events of the Cold War, this course explores the interpretive controversies surrounding them. Students are encouraged to engage with the changing historiography of the multifaceted, multi-polar Cold War from a variety of challenging perspectives, with particular emphasis given to its global context. Students will examine the period in the light of changing historiographical interpretations and with reference to its economic, cultural, ideological, military, political and social dimensions.
This module provides students with an introduction to various economic and financial concepts, demonstrating how these can be applied to better comprehend the world around them. It enhances students' understanding of the external factors that influence businesses, as well as financial aspects that are significant within a business context. It starts with an understanding of economic thought and development, and it expands on modern economic and financial issues the firms face. It is a solid foundation course for the basic ideas and applications of economics and finance.
This course in probability and statistics includes theoretical and applied approaches which are primarily designed for business, data science, social science and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing about the mean and proportions of up to two populations, Chi-square tests, One-way ANOVA and F Distribution, linear, multiple and non-linear regression and Non-parametric methods. SPSS lab sessions will be included targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, data science, social science and psychology. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software.
This course introduces the major concepts studied in Earth System Science, addressing the Earth’s origins and evolution as an active planet within the solar system. The fundamental processes and interrelationships between the atmosphere, oceans, biosphere and lithosphere are investigated to serve as a basis for understanding natural systems, particularly near or at the Earth’s surface, and the ways in which human activities impact those systems. There is mounting concern about global warming, biodiversity, energy and sustainable development, all of which if not governed poses a threat to the delicate balance of the Earth system. Thus the need to understand the Earth as an interrelated system is more so than ever before.
This course provides an examination of the principles of ecology and their application to conservation. Students will explore the complex relationships between organisms and their environments, including population dynamics, species interactions, ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural/anthropogenic causes of species’ decline and extinction. The course covers key topics such as habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and conservation strategies at local, regional, and global scales. Special emphasis is placed on understanding and addressing the threats to biodiversity and developing practical solutions for conservation. Through case studies students will gain the skills necessary to critically evaluate conservation challenges and design effective conservation strategies.
This course covers environmental science topics such as global warming/climate change, ozone depletion, acid rain, pollution, population issues, energy issues, land and water issues, and an introduction to environmental ethics. All topics are addressed from scientific, economic, politico-sociological and ethical standpoints. An awareness and appreciation of global, local, and personal environmental problems are developed, together with the implications of possible solutions. The concept of interrelatedness is a unifying theme throughout the course. Students are encouraged to become aware of/develop an understanding of their own environmental identity.
This course provides an overview of theories, approaches, and frameworks for understanding international and sub-national conflict as well as post-conflict societies. In doing so this course also discusses the role of different forms of violence, identity, and material factors in the outbreak and perpetuation of conflict taking into account state and human security, gender-sensitive, and post-colonial concerns throughout. The course then moves on to focus on conflict resolution, including the examination of peace agreements, different types of external interventions, military and non-military, while developing an analytical criterion of success in peace building which is applied to contemporary cases through the course. Finally, the course considers transitional justice and the particular issues that arise in post-conflict societies including those involving trauma, memory, and forgiveness. Case studies of civil and international conflicts, and of related conflict resolution strategies are used throughout.
This course addresses the complex interactions between the phenomenon of globalization and both environmental concerns and objectives for international development. The concept of globalization and the history of this phenomenon are interrogated, along with the political, economic, ideological, and social dilemmas associated with environmental issues. The theory, strategy and methods of global development are addressed in this context, while engaging with a range of relevant global actors and institutions.
This course enables students to investigate the international politics of law-making, compliance, and enforcement in various issue areas, and to consider how fragmentation and self-regulation impact upon the effectiveness of international law. The course highlights the intersection of human rights with modern challenges such as public health, national security, and environmental issues. Through critical analysis, students will evaluate the power and limitations of international law systems in protecting human rights and explore potential reforms for enhancing their effectiveness.
This course addresses nationalism and related conflicts in the 20th Century, with particular emphasis on the roles of communism and fascism in this period. Key events are covered, particularly the World Wars and the Cold War, while engaging with the ideological currents that influenced nationalist movements. Different historical interpretations of this material are addressed, while the concepts ‘nation’ and ‘nationalism’ are explored in detail. A range of C20th historical contexts are used to develop related themes such as imperialism, independence, revolutions, democracy, and dissent. The course explores the historical origins of both communism and fascism in social movements, the characteristics of various regimes both within and beyond the West, and the contemporary significance of these ideas.
Introduces students to research methodology, key research methods, and research practices used in the discipline of International Relations, with an emphasis on qualitative methods. Students will learn research skills that translate directly into the workplace, including in NGOs, charities, the corporate sector, and intergovernmental and development agency contexts. This course also trains students for practically undertaking academic research such as that required to complete a dissertation. Students are prepared to carry out a range of methods (i.e. textual and visual analysis, interviews, focus groups, and ethnography) and learn principles of data collection and analysis. Writing research proposals and literature reviews, and pitching research are both taught and assessed, and students are introduced to widely used and newer creative and participatory modes of research.
This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service Learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service-learning to the theoretical, political and sociological conceptions of citizenship and their limitations. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address real-world issues and critically reflect on their role as agents in communities and as legal and social citizens. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or non-profit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.
Plus two Level 5 electives from across the curriculum. These can be selected to support a minor in an area outside of your subject discipline.
This course offers an overview of the history and practice of contemporary diplomacy. It begins with analysis of what a modern diplomat currently does, both at home and abroad, set within the context of diplomatic history and theory. The normal practice of diplomacy and the various techniques of international negotiation will be addressed by using both historical and contemporary examples. It will familiarize students with the activities of a modern diplomat within a wider historical and theoretical context.
This course provides students with a set of conceptual and analytical tools in order to acquire a deep and nuanced understanding of the discipline of International Relations (IR) and global politics. It does so by examining IR theories and approaches to international politics, scrutinizing and problematizing their historic foundations, and exploring contemporary challenges and critiques. The course begins by introducing philosophical debates regarding the purpose of theorizing and the importance of understanding ontological and epistemological assumptions and examines the difference between and implications of ‘understanding’ and ‘explaining’ in international relations theory. The course then critically evaluates grand and middle range theories of IR as well as approaches focused on everyday global politics. Throughout, the course scrutinizes challenges presented by a multitude of multidisciplinary interventions into IR including post-positivist critiques and approaches centralizing gender and colonialism as key variables in global politics.
This course introduces students to the process of development project evaluation, in the context of the theory and practice of sustainable development. The course enables students to focus on the political, social and economic complexity of managing a specific sustainable development in the developing world. Methods of evaluation are explored, decided upon and utilised in the production of a Project Evaluation Document (PED) for a sustainable development project of choice. Issues such as livelihoods, gender, environmental impact, measurement, participation and consultation processes are raised, though the context varies across urban/rural and blue-green-brown issues depending on the specific project chosen for evaluation.
Senior Dissertation in International Relations is the capstone course of the major. Students produce a dissertation of between 6,000 to 8,000 words in length, on a topic relevant to the discipline. Students are guided through the various stages of the dissertation by a supervisor. Students orally present their research according to conference standards.
This course examines current media issues in relation to cultural, social, economic, and political aspects of global society. It views media as a key player in public culture and democracy, exploring how its role as vital source of entertainment and information is impacted by an evolving technological landscape, and by new challenges posed, such as sustainability and promotion of equality, inclusivity, and diversity, within the global village. It looks at media practices and professionals, considering the impact of celebrity politics and influencers on the media environment, while also addressing the relationship between the public, government, and media institutions, as it discusses ethics, law, and regulation. Ultimately, it seeks to consider the place of media in achieving a sustainable and just world.
This course explores some of the main national and international efforts to counter terrorism, extremism and transnational crime. We examine types of terrorism and extremism and the theories and strategies underpinning state responses. We explore the phenomenon of transnational organised crime and consider where it intersects with terrorism and extremism. We discuss these phenomena from the perspectives of victims and perpetrators, processes of violent radicalisation, typologies of terror, and the strengths and weaknesses of strategies to counter and/or limit terrorism and extremism, including de-radicalisation. We also consider the capacity of institutions and international cooperations to thwart and restrict transnational crime, and explore the intersections between trafficking, terrorism and the commission of atrocities.
This is a course in theoretical and applied public economics using microeconomic theory. The course addresses the theoretical analysis of market failure, public finance, taxation and expenditure systems in modern economies and discusses philosophical issues of economic welfare. Inequality, social mobility, and welfare frameworks are part of this course.
This course examines the causes and consequences of empires from a broad range of comparative and international perspectives, including the economic, political, social, and (by way of postcolonial theory) the cultural. It investigates why empires are significant, who are the empire-makers, how and why empires rise and fall, whether they are good or bad, how they are defined, and how they can be resisted. Where possible the course will make use of some of the excellent museums and collections within London.
Narratives about war have traditionally been centred on men’s roles, while women have often been cast as passive bystanders or victims. This course will challenge that view by exploring the active participation of women in wars, decolonisation, civil conflicts, and terrorist campaigns, both as combatants and civilian supporters. This course explores the changing nature and history of warfare from the Modern period to the beginning of the twenty-first century, focusing on the social, cultural, and gendered dimensions of conflict. A key premise of the course is that warfare reflects the societies and cultures that wage it. This idea will be tested through diverse examples of warfare across different historical periods, geographic regions, and social contexts, investigating how war has shaped—and been shaped by—societal structures, technology, gender relations, and political developments.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of programme management principles, processes, and techniques. Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage complex programmes within a variety of organizational contexts. Contemporary project management methods will be explored. The module emphasizes the strategic alignment of programmes with organizational objectives and the importance of stakeholder engagement, risk management, and benefits realization. Furthermore, it explores a range of programme management methodologies, equipping students with the ability to select and apply the most appropriate approach for diverse project scenarios.
This course investigates the process of policymaking in modern states. It explores the role of ideas and institutions in policymaking, how in the new globalized world governments “import” and “borrow” policy ideas from each other, while analyzing how the different actors (i.e. states, bureaucrats, think-tanks, policy-networks, lobby groups, global civil society, and citizens) participate and influence the policy-making process. Through active learning activities (such as mapping the agenda-setting of ideas, identifying policy networks, advising a President) students will understand the complexities of policy-making and the challenges that the modern state faces in the era of globalization.
Plus one elective of your choice, which may support a minor.
At Richmond, we do things differently. You won’t just sit in lectures, you’ll collaborate, debate, problem-solve and apply what you learn in real time.
This programme is taught through a mix of seminars, lectures, group work, and hands-on projects. Most classes are small and discussion-led, meaning you’ll have real conversations, not just note-taking sessions. This gives you space to think critically, ask questions, and get personal support from your professors.
Alongside your classroom experience, you’ll also take part in guided learning activities: from guest lectures and field trips to online discussion boards, workshops and research.
You’ll study 32 US credits (128 UK credits) per academic year, with around:
We assess you the way the real world works, not just through final exams, but through a continuous assessment model, where you’re evaluated throughout the semester.
Depending on the course, you might be assessed through:
This means you’ll build confidence as you go, get regular feedback, and develop a range of academic and professional skills, not just learn to cram for exams.
From day one, you’ll be assigned a personal Academic Advisor, a member of faculty who’ll guide your course choices, support your development, and help you stay on track. You’ll meet with them regularly and get advice that’s tailored to your goals, whether academic, personal, or professional.
You’ll also have access to:
Looking for information about our Level 3 Applied Liberal Arts year? You’ll find everything you need here.
The University accepts a wide range of international undergraduate degree award qualifications. Occasionally the University may invite candidates to attend an interview.
We understand that not every student is in the same situation, if you have any questions about your qualifications, please get in touch with us [email protected].
| Entry to year two of the four-year programme Minimum requirements
|
Entry to year one of the programme Minimum requirements
|
Missing up to 24 US transfer credits will enter between year one and two of the programme (students
normally take 3.5 years to complete the degree).
|
|
If your first language is not English, we will require evidence of English language proficiency. Minimum requirements are:
We also accept a range of alternative qualifications to demonstrate your level of English Language proficiency. Validity: For admissions and CAS purposes, period of validity for all country-specific English language waivers is 2 years.
We believe your degree should be worth the investment, not just in where it gets you, but in how it supports you to get there. Below you'll find everything you need to know about tuition fees, what’s included, and the financial support available to help you make the most of your time at Richmond.
There’s no extra charge for internships, they’re built into your degree and designed to give you hands-on experience that counts.
We offer automatic tuition fee reductions for high-achieving students. You’ll be considered for a scholarship when you apply, no separate form required.
For more information on the terms and conditions visit our Tuition Fees & Funding webpage.
The University offers personal development seminars, leadership opportunities and access to work experience, volunteering and internships. There is also a dedicated, personalised service for assistance with CV writing, interview preparation tips and much more.
Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to build links with industry experts and Richmond alumni, connecting you to a vast and influential worldwide network.
We offer career support and advice through our Careers & Internships Office that will assist and guide you in your study choices to make sure you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Whether you are interested in gaining work experience in London or internationally, we will be here to help you find the best possible opportunities.
Through internships you will gain business acumen, beneficial work experiences and transferable skills which will give you a competitive advantage in a fast-paced working environment.
Work while you study across 5 continents through our partners Connect123 and CRCC Asia with destinations in Spain, Argentina, South Africa, China, Japan, Vietnam and Australia.
Below is a list of where some of the graduates of this programme have gone on to work.
You can apply one of three ways, either apply directly through us, apply through UCAS and for our US students, via the Common Application ($50.00).
In order to submit your application you will need the following information
Visit our How to Apply webpage for more information regarding Entry Requirements, admissions processes and to start your application.
We encourage you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you are completing your undergraduate programme of study. In this case you will be offered a place that is conditional on successfully completing a specified qualification and English language qualification if applicable.
If you would like your application to be considered for a Richmond bursary, an early application is strongly recommended.
Studying abroad through Richmond American University London’s partner institutions offers students an enriching educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. This opportunity allows students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, enhancing their global awareness and cross-cultural communication skills. Additionally, studying abroad can bolster a student’s resume, showcasing their adaptability and international perspective to potential employers. Academically, students can take unique courses providing a broader and more diverse academic experience. Overall, the study abroad programme fosters personal growth, independence, and a deeper understanding of the global community.
The tuition fees and credits are part of the Richmond degree, therefore no tuition is paid to the host institution. Students must ensure a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B average) to succeed.
Richmond has partnerships all over the world, to learn more, visit our Overseas Study Partners webpage.
“I had the best academic and personal experience at Richmond University. The liberal arts degree, close relations with professors and the international environment provided a rigorous academic training and development opportunities.
Studying International Relations (BA) in my undergraduate at Richmond sparked my curiosity in the field and ultimately laid the foundations for specialising in a Master’s in Political Economy of Europe at the London School of Economics.
The Richmond experience equipped me with superior critical thinking abilities that still provide a competitive edge to this day.”
“My time at Richmond has been incredibly enriching both from an academic and personal perspective. I had the opportunity to grow and learn from an inspiring international community of faculty and students while living in the heart of London.
My BA in International Relations introduced me to a variety of fascinating subjects and generated in me a passion for international development and public policy that defined my career path.
Thus, I pursued a MSc in Migration, mobility and development from SOAS university and worked for international organisations in Asia and Europe.
The classes I followed at Richmond were unique thanks to the engaging and practical attitude of the professors. Along with theoretical concepts and practical knowledge, they instilled in us the thirst for critical thinking, which fundamentally shaped me as a person and allowed me to stand out in my career.”
“Studying in the heart of London was exceptional, especially for my career in International Relations – there is such a diversity regarding organizations where you can do an internship and also the other students were from all over the world, which provided different perspectives on several topics.
The professors were supportive and motivating – Richmond really confirmed that I am on the right path, connected me to inspirational people and opened up the horizon for my future career.”
“Studying here at Richmond has definitely given me that international environment I was looking for and has been truly an amazing experience!”
“International Relations classes here are so enriching and engaging, not only because I love what I’m studying but also because of the structure in which classes are taught. The students and teachers here are so diverse in background that when discussing international topics, you’re able to learn first-hand about different countries, their governments, and how they live. The classes are interactive and never overwhelming in size, and I am amazed how much I have enjoyed learning and growing in these past two years.”
“The diversity within Richmond also helps to create and very unique peer environment. The close-knit students here push each other at all times to be more kind, courageous, caring, accepting, and curious, all while striving for academic excellence. It’s the perfect school for a student who wants to learn and live globally and have a lot of fun along the way.”
“Richmond imbued in me a commitment to help make the world a better place. As a senior civil servant at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) I lead a team that helps American communities become more resilient to disasters. I recall my time at Richmond fondly and hope that current and future students get as much out of their years in London as I did.”
“Nearly a decade after graduating from Richmond with a BA in International Relations, I am still using the skills and knowledge I acquired during my time in London. Academically, Richmond prepared me for my work at multiple US federal agencies and my graduate program at Brown University, where I received a Masters in Public Affairs.
My professors at Richmond brought a level of expertise and insight that continues to bring value to my work today as a Strategic Communications Director at Finsbury Glover Hering, a leading global strategic communications and public affairs communications consultancy based in Washington, US.
Making the choice to attend Richmond also brought the life experience of moving to a different country, living in a dynamic city, and being immersed in a diverse, multicultural community. All these unique facets of going to Richmond ensured my time at university helped me grow personally and professionally.”
“After earning my BA in Political Science and International Relations from Richmond, I went on to earn my MSc from the London School of Economics and JD from Rutgers School of Law. I am currently a Deputy Attorney General for New Jersey in the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability. I joined my current office after practicing at a large international law firm for more than five years.
There is a through line from my time at Richmond to my current practice. Practicing law requires, among other things, the ability to quickly digest facts, see an issue from all sides, and draw key distinctions among competing arguments. At Richmond, the quality of instruction, class size, and diverse community of students helped make me uniquely prepared for my career. “
Sign up and find out about our programmes, generous scholarships and what life is like at Richmond.
All Undergraduate students have the option to Study Abroad for a semester or entire academic year. We offer students the opportunity to study abroad with our partners in:
USA | CHINA | AUSTRALIA | NEW ZEALAND | GREECE | BELGIUM | FRANCE | ARGENTINA | SOUTH KOREA | SPAIN
and many more places around the word.
RIASA is excited to announce that from September 2025, we will be expanding our UK college soccer offering by launching our first-ever London Roster. Aspiring student-athletes will have the choice of 30 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes – all US/UK dual accredited, alongside a challenging and rewarding soccer development programme.
Sport Ed Ex combines the provision of performance coaching and playing pathways in Rugby and Cricket for aspiring athletes (men and women) aged 18 and over with the opportunity to study at Richmond American University London, offering students the unique opportunity to study a wide variety of dual accredited (US/UK) undergraduate degree courses.
Join student Maja and Head of Head of Department of Humanities & Social Sciences, Dr Michael Keating for an interview about our Economics programme at Richmond American University London.
Flick through and download our Undergraduate Prospectus to find out more about the programme, integrated internships & unique career opportunities.
