Abu Dhabi University

What you'll study

The programme combines core theoretical foundations with applied courses and regional specialisms. You will study international relations theory, comparative politics, and the history of international relations before moving on to applied modules such as diplomacy and negotiation, foreign policy analysis, international law, and global governance.

• Core theory and methods: introduction to IR theory, political theory, research methods, quantitative and qualitative research skills, and academic writing.
• Policy and practice: diplomacy and consular studies, foreign policy analysis, conflict and security studies, international organisations, human rights, and international law.
• Political economy and global issues: global political economy, development studies, transnational issues (migration, environment, energy security), and regional security dynamics.
• Regional and thematic specialisms: Middle East politics, Gulf studies, Asian and European politics, as well as elective options that allow study of specific regions or thematic concerns such as terrorism and counter‑extremism, peacebuilding, or humanitarian action.
• Practical experience and capstone: a supervised capstone project or dissertation, opportunities for internships with government, NGOs or international organisations, simulation exercises (e.g. Model UN), and language study to enhance employability.

The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, policy workshops and guest lectures from practitioners. Students typically progress from introductory modules in the early years to more specialised and research‑led modules in the final year.

Entry requirements

Entry is for applicants holding a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study. Applicants typically need satisfactory grades in their high school diploma or A‑levels, or an equivalent international qualification. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English test or the university's internal assessment. Abu Dhabi University also considers applicants from foundation or bridging programmes and may require an interview or personal statement describing motivation for studying international relations.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA in International Relations go into a wide range of roles in the public, private and third sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Diplomatic service and consular posts
• Policy analysis and advisory roles in national and local government
• Positions in international organisations and multilateral agencies
• Work with non‑governmental organisations, humanitarian agencies and advocacy groups
• Roles in think tanks, research institutes and political risk consultancies
• Journalism, media and communications specialising in international affairs
• Corporate roles in government relations, compliance, and international business development
• Further academic study at master’s and doctoral level in international relations, public policy, law or development studies

Why study at Abu Dhabi University

Abu Dhabi University provides a campus environment in the UAE with a strong regional focus and global outlook, making it well‑placed for the study of international relations. The programme benefits from faculty with regional and international expertise, regular practitioner speakers from diplomacy and international organisations, and links that facilitate internships and applied learning. Students can take advantage of multilingual teaching and language courses, modern facilities, and career services that help translate academic study into professional placements in government, international institutions and the private sector.