Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - International Relations and Economics

The International Relations modules at Derby adopt a transdisciplinary approach to the study of world affairs and global issues, providing students with the opportunity to undertake a comprehensive and critical examination of significant global challenges. The programme enables a profound understanding of dynamic processes and trends affecting human societies and equips students with the skills to navigate and influence some of the world’s most important and complex problems.

In parallel, students develop expertise in applying economic theory, perspectives, and approaches to address business and organisational challenges across the private, public, and third sectors, both domestically and internationally. The Economics teaching team is experienced and enthusiastic, fostering a supportive learning community with small class sizes that facilitate personalised guidance. Lecturers conduct influential research on pressing economic issues, including behavioural economics, public policy, the green economy, and the economics of innovation and technological change, while students also engage with industry experts, such as visiting professor Trevor Williams, who shares insights on developments in the financial sector.

The International Relations team brings together expertise across a broad range of geographical and thematic areas, including the history and politics of modern China and India, Eastern European economies, the green transition, and European integration. Students benefit from specialist facilities such as the Financial Markets Lab, which provides hands-on experience with software used in financial markets globally. The lab offers access to real-time data, company and director profiles, and current affairs analysis, along with training from Bloomberg specialists and the opportunity to work towards the Bloomberg Market Concepts Certificate, complementing the degree qualification.

A Joint Honours degree at Derby allows students to study two subjects simultaneously, providing the flexibility to pursue areas of personal interest, prepare for specific career goals, or combine a familiar subject with a new area of study to create a tailored academic experience.