The BA History and International Relations course at Exeter takes you on a journey through the human race in historic times: our activities, ideas, creations, institutions and impact – teaching you to understand how the past has shaped the world we know today. By looking back at what has been, particularly world events that define key moments in time, we can draw conclusions and vital insight into the character and workings of world politics as they are now. In an ever-connected world, International Relations are developing at an exponential rate making this a fascinating area in which to focus your studies. As a Russel Group university, Exeter has a longstanding reputation in History and Politics, ranked in the top 100 worldwide for both subjects. From the Medieval period through to the current day, history subject modules will cover a range or themes including; international, economic, cultural and social history across many different geographies like the Americas, parts of Asia, Britain and Europe. Students can experience and contribute to cutting-edge research through current work our expert faculty are undertaking in areas such as the history of Britain, continental Europe and on world and public history. With support from your tutors, you will learn essential skills like source evaluation and interpretation and historical writing to hone your talents as a historian. You are able to customise the course to suit your needs, by selecting optional modules that you’re passionate about. A number of modules focus specifically on international relations and perspectives including for example International Perspectives on Spanish Civil War, leadership during international crises and Child Soldiers in Africa. This degree is aimed as providing a strong foundation in your understanding of international issues with the freedom to specialise in areas of specific interest to you such as transnational crime or globalisation. With a range of teaching methods including lectures, collaborative team working, lively debates and written assignments you will build the confidence to communicate effectively about a range of topics. In your first year you will focus on the political systems in place, theories surrounding global politics and building your skills base to analyse, interpret and challenge these. You will explore rich subject areas such as strategy and security, politics in the Middle East, European politics and comparative politics. By year two you will expand your knowledge through in depth study of foreign policy, conflict and development, environmental politics and the international relations of a world superpower like America. During your studies, you’ll get to know Exeter, a city bursting with history and heritage that offers museums, art galleries and a wide range of historical architecture. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Exeter is the perfect place to study if you enjoy the outdoors. Looking beyond the South West of England, the Employment Experience and Employment Experience Abroad programme will help to broaden your studies. You will spend your third year with an employer, within a sector of your choice. A work placement will dramatically boost your confidence, enhance your CV and develop graduate level skills and competencies that employers are looking for. If working abroad, you may have also gained knowledge of another language, ideal if you wish to embark upon an international career path.