Course summary

For as long as there has been war, people have been fascinated by the history of how those wars have been fought, why and by whom. The International Relations and Military History degree scheme provides an opportunity for an in-depth study of warfare as it has developed since the time of Napoleon, reflecting changes in society and technology. For example, how and why has the nature of war changed, from nations in arms through the age of total war to wars of choice? How has technology changed war, from steam through nuclear power to computers and nano-technology? Students taking this degree will also learn about how war has been studied and about the evolution of key ideas about the nature and conduct of war: the principles of war, the role of battle, the importance of leadership and the power of industry. The focus of Military History at Aberystwyth is on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and it is placed in the context of the international political world. Why study International Relations and Military History at Aberystwyth University?

• Our department is ranked in the top 40 in the world for academic reputation. (QS, 2017).

• You will become a student in the world’s first department of international politics, founded in 1919 after the end of World War I to help the world understand the world.

• You will be guided and mentored by lecturers who are enthusiastic, committed in providing you with an outstanding and dynamic learning environment.

• All students will have the opportunity to participate in our renowned ‘Crisis Games’; a three day role playing exercise in political, economic and diplomatic manoeuvre, developing negotiation and communication, critical thinking, team work, and problem-solving skills.

• The Department operates a prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme, enabling you to gain valuable experience working alongside an MP (House of Commons, Westminster) or an AM (Welsh Assembly, Cardiff) for a period of 4-6 weeks during the summer. During this time you will write reports and speeches, undertake research projects, and respond to constituency issues. There may be further opportunities for you to get involved in elections and various international issues.

• The Department also has an International Student Exchange Programme based on close links with carefully selected universities in Europe, Asia, North America and Australia, offering you an excellent opportunity to expand your academic and social horizons by spending a part of your university experience abroad.

• The Department is also home to Interstate, the oldest student-run international politics journal in the United Kingdom, providing a unique opportunity for you to publish your work (particularly advantageous if you wish to progress to postgraduate study) or gain valuable experience working as part of the editorial team. Stimulating student societies foster a strong sense of community within the department, offering a programme of political debates, visiting speakers, conferences and workshops, alongside numerous social activities such as an annual ball.