Available with:

  • Foundation Year


Course Summary

Embark on a transformative educational journey with our degree in Global Affairs, Politics, and International Relations with Economics. This multidisciplinary course, offered at our Chester campus, is designed to equip you with an in-depth understanding of the complex interplay between global politics, international relations, and economic principles.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for professionals who can navigate the intricate webs of global economics and politics is paramount. Our programme provides you with a robust foundation in political theory, international relations, and economic analysis, preparing you to become a leader in shaping global policies and strategies.

In this degree, you will explore key topics such as international trade, global financial systems, economic development, and the impact of economic policies on global affairs. Our curriculum is carefully crafted to blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring you gain real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field of global economics and politics.

Our academic team comprises experienced professionals and academics who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise. They are not just teachers but mentors who will guide you through your academic journey. Through engaging lectures, dynamic seminars, and hands-on projects, you will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of global issues.

The course also offers opportunities for work placements, study abroad programmes, and participation in conferences and events, providing you with invaluable experiences and networking opportunities. These experiences will not only enrich your understanding but also enhance your employability in a competitive global job market.

Graduates of this degree are well-equipped for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, consultancy firms, and multinational corporations.

Why you'll Love it


What you'llStudy

In the first year, you will explore foundational concepts of political science, international relations, and economic theory. You will examine global governance structures, basic economic principles, and the political dynamics shaping our world. Critical thinking and analytical skills are honed through the study of current events and historical case analyses.

In your second year, you will explore the complexities of international economic policies, trade theories, and market structures. You will analyse political systems, global governance, and economic development strategies, while honing skills in statistical analysis and economic modelling, preparing you for advanced topics and research in global economics and politics.

In your final year, you will tackle advanced topics, exploring the nexus of global economics, political strategies, and international law. You will engage in in-depth research, analyse economic policies' global impact, and develop comprehensive theses, culminating in a profound understanding of the economic underpinnings of international relations and political systems.

Who you'll Learn from

Dr Michael Francis

Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer, Politics
Dr Michael Francis

Dr Rachel Massey

Senior Lecturer, Politics and International Relations
Dr Rachel Massey

Dr Emike Nasamu

Programme Leader, BSc Economics; Senior Lecturer
Dr Emike Nasamu

Meng Tong

Lecturer
A dark grey silhouette on a light grey background

Dr Suzanne Francis

Associate Professor of Conflict Transformation & Peace Studies; Programme Leader, International Relations
Dr Suzanne Francis

Dr Mark Bendall

Senior Lecturer, Politics and International Relations
Dr Mark Bendall

Dr Wasiu Are

Lecturer, Economics
Dr Wasiu Are

How you'll Learn

Our approach to learning and teaching is broad and includes:

Interactive Lectures: Engaging students in interactive lectures that include multimedia presentations, case studies, and open-ended questions to stimulate discussions and critical thinking.

Small Group Discussions: Promoting peer learning, collaboration, and the exchange of diverse perspectives.

Case-Based Learning: Presenting real-life cases for analysis. This allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Research Projects: Research projects that require students to explore specific topics, conduct empirical research, and present their findings.

Ethical Dilemmas and Discussions: Engaging students in discussions about ethical considerations, including topics like oppression, wealth, advocacy, identity, humanitarian support, political systems, and research ethics.

Guest Speakers and Practitioners: Invited guest speakers to share their experiences and insights with students.

Simulation Exercises: Organised simulation exercises where students take on roles.

Beyond the Classroom

On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience.

Our Experiential Overseas Learning module offers a unique opportunity to participate in a short-term placement around the world.

This course offers a Year Abroad option - an exciting opportunity to study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP (International Student Exchange Programs), a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide.

Entry Requirements

112 UCAS points

UCAS Tariff 112 points
GCE A Level Typical offer – BCC-BBC
BTEC BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM
BTEC Diploma: D*D*
International Baccalaureate 26 points
Irish / Scottish Highers Irish Highers: BBBB
Scottish Highers: BBBB
Access requirements Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above
OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR National Extended Diploma - Merit 2
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - DMM
OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma - D*D* 

Extra Information Please note that we accept a maximum of 8 UCAS points from GCE AS Levels and that the Welsh Baccalaureate (core) and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. 

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

72 UCAS points

UCAS Tariff 72 points
GCE A Level 72 points
BTEC BTEC Extended Diploma: MMP-MPP
BTEC Diploma: MM
International Baccalaureate 24 points
Irish / Scottish Highers Irish Highers: CCCC
Scottish Highers: CCCC
Access requirements Access to HE Diploma – Pass overall
OCR Cambridge Technicals  
Extra Information

Other vocational qualifications at Level 3 will also be considered, such as NVQs. 

Mature students (21 and over) that have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels) will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

The University of Chester is committed to a policy of widening access and participation by groups currently under represented in Higher Education. To this end, we will consider a diverse range of entry qualifications and, if you are a mature student and do not hold the minimum formal qualifications, your application will be treated on an individual basis and your previous experience will be taken into account when assessing your suitability to the programme. 

Where you'll Study Exton Park, Chester

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.  

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. 

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Individuals who study with us have a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors, capitalising on their understanding of economic principles in the context of global systems. Some of the career paths include:

  • International Development
  • Economic Policy Analysis
  • Diplomacy and Foreign Service
  • Global Finance
  • International Trade and Commerce
  • Consulting
  • Research and Academia
  • Non-Profit Sector
  • International Journalism
  • Public Sector

These career paths leverage the graduates' ability to analyse economic issues within the broader context of global political and social systems, making them valuable assets in a variety of professional roles.

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.