International Relations and English Language

Course outline

The study of International Relations covers politics in the international realm. You will develop a knowledge and understanding of the nature of relations between states and also of the roles played by international institutions, other intergovernmental organisations, multinational corporations and NGOs.

English Language at Aston is an innovative programme which aims to provide you with a theoretical knowledge and understanding of the English language, how it works in society and its role in the world today. It will also help you to develop your own communication and writing skills to high levels.

There is an optional, fully integrated Placement Year with extensive preparation and support offered by our dedicated placements team.

Learning, teaching & assessment

You will be involved in: lectures and seminars, small-group work, project work and independent study. There are opportunities for group and collaborative work. Students undertake a major piece of independent research in final year.

You will be allocated a personal tutor who can provide you with help and advice.

Assessment is through a combination of exams, coursework, essays, presentations and an extended dissertation during your final year.

Placement year

By taking a 4 year Sandwich programme you will have the opportunity to undertake a year’s professional experience in the public or private sector in your third year of study. You will gain invaluable experience which will set you apart from other graduates.

The placement year can be in the UK, or there are opportunities for English speaking placements/study abroad. Recent International Relations placements include: HM Inspectorate of Constabulary, Ministry of Defence, Audit Commission, working with local MPs, British High Commission in Ghana, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, House of Lords, African Development Bank in Uganda, TNS (market research.) Recent English Language placements include: Language assistant in Spain and a Teaching assistant in Japan.

You will be given support and advice on finding a placement. Many employers return each year to employ our placement students.

Career prospects

Our graduates are in demand from a wide range of employers where a sound understanding of societies, team –work and communication skills are required. Recent graduate destinations include:

• Islamic Relief - Orphan Support Officer

• PRO - Recruitment Consultant

• Serious Fraud Office - Assistant Financial Investigator

• Warner Bros Pictures - Junior Publicist

• West Midlands Police - Recruitment Adviser

• Worcestershire County Council - Project Support Manager

• MA Political Thought & Theory

• BAE Systems - Graduate Trainee (Finance)

• Birmingham City Council - Project Assistant

• Copper Alloys Ltd - Marketing & Sales Manager

• De‐Dietrich - Cross Team Communicator

• Department of Constitutional Defence - Administrative Officer

• Diageo - Assistant Brand Manager

• Fed Ex - Financial Data Analyst

• HSE Recruitment Network - Office Manager

• National Probation Service - Training Probation Officer

• Royal Air Force - Administrative Secretary

• Warwickshire County Council , Political Group Assistant

• Wokingham District Council - Policy Officer

Personal development

This course helps you to develop team working skills, presentation and communication skills. Your IT skills will also benefit from use of our newly refurbished e-learning language centre.

The Placement Year will develop your initiative, confidence and independence, as well as giving you invaluable professional experience. In your final year you complete an individual research dissertation which improves your independent research skills and report writing skills.

All students are encouraged to undertake Personal Development Planning (PDP).