Understanding the Course:

Understand the major issues and debates in contemporary global politics.

By studying the BA in International Relations not only will you discover more about a variety of issues and debates in global politics, you will find out about the forces which shape contemporary societies. You will learn about such issues as globalisation, international law, third-world debt and American foreign policy. You will also study key institutions like the European Union and the United Nations.

About You:

Do you have an interest in major world issues? Would you like to know more about the social structure and political systems of contemporary societies? By the end of this unique and innovative course you will not only have learned more about politics, development and area studies from a global perspective, but you will also have developed skills much in demand by employers, e.g. oral and written communication skills, the ability to think critically and analytically, team work skills and research techniques.

The general entry requirements for admission to the University apply.

Why should I choose DCU?

By offering a choice of three streams you can explore the world of global politics and the forces shaping our society. This makes the International Relations degree unique in Ireland. Our staff have expertise in European Union studies, Middle-Eastern studies, International Security and Conflict Studies, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, International Law and Aid and Development Studies, to name just a few.

Course Structure:

Combined with the extensive elective modules available, you will have plenty of flexibility in what you choose to study, alongside the core elements.

Elective modules start in Year 1, so you can choose an elective from either intermediate French, ab-initio (beginner level), intermediate German or Spanish, American studies, or intercultural studies. This elective module will run for each of the three years.

IR is normally a three year course. However, you can also elect to spend an extra year abroad in one of our partner universities - in the US, France, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Denmark and Sweden. This is an excellent opportunity to experience first hand another society. You then complete the final year of your course in DCU.

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

Why DCU?

• Understand and analyse the organisation and interaction of modern societies.
• Acquire a variety of study skills to maximise your learning potential at University and develop a range of multidisciplinary skills which are in high demand by employers today.
• Pursue the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad as part of this degree.
• Be part of a School that is a leading centre for expertise in Governance and International Relations.
• Benefit from the skills and experience of our dedicated, supportive and highly qualified academic team, which will help you throughout your degree.

International Students

Non-native English speakers may be eligible to apply to the International Foundation Certificate (IFC) course, which will help you to achieve the English language requirements necessary for entry to this course as well as preparing you for adjustment to university learning in the Irish context.

What Our Graduates Say

"The BA in International Relations is the ideal programme for students who have multiple areas of interest and do not wish to specialise yet. It explains the issues relating to globalisation and provides students with the keys to understanding the world around us." Eléa Boureux, IR Graduate, 2011

"The wide range of courses on offer in the International Relations degree allows you to explore interests you already have, and discover an interest in subjects you may not have thought about. Lecturers are always approachable, friendly and available. The opportunity to study abroad in third year was one of the best experiences I have ever had." Catherine Connolly, IR Graduate, 2011

Career Prospects:

Graduates are ideally suited for work in a variety of areas. Some graduates may choose to work for international governmental or non-governmental institutions or for major international corporations, while others may choose a career in journalism, policy evaluation or research.

Graduates will also be well equipped to pursue a Masters Degree or PhD in related areas, such as politics, security studies, journalism or development studies.

Future Careers

• Political analyst
• Researcher
• Non-governmental aide
• Public servant
• Journalist

Entry Requirements:

Leaving Certificate
There are no additional entry requirements for this programme apart from the general entry requirements for admission to the university.

GCE A Level
There are no additional entry requirements for this programme apart from the general entry requirements for admission to the university.

FETAC Level 5
Students must present distinctions in five modules in relevant areas.

Transfer Applications
Applications are welcomed from students who have studied at level 6, level 7 and level 8 in relevant areas, such students may be exempt from certain modules.

International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

How to Apply and Closing Dates

EU School Leavers/FETAC Level 5
Apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1st February or 1st May

EU Mature Applicants
Apply through the CAO by 1st February

EU Transfer Applicants
Apply directly to DCU by the 1st July

All Non-EU Candidates
Candidates should apply directly to DCU. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis up to the 1st July. All non-EU candidates are advised to apply early as places are limited.

Make an Application
Candidates required to apply through the CAO can apply online at http://www.cao.ie/
Candidates required to apply directly to DCU can download, print and complete a direct application form by clicking here

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Fee information