BA (Hons) in International Relations

Overview

The BA (Hons) in International Relations aims to produce graduates who are reflective and critical learners, with a global perspective, and who are prepared for the world of work. This is achieved through a number of measures:

• In order to capitalize on the knowledge and understanding that the degree aims to develop, effective communication and an ability to work in teams and with diverse stakeholders, are seen as essential attributes of our graduates. The development of communication, presentation, and team working skills lie at the heart of the degree and are nurtured from first principles to a high level of proficiency in many of the thematic modules and, especially, through tutorial programmes.

• Employers also value independence of thought and a creative ability to find solutions. The degree enables students to take ownership of their learning – whether individually or in groups – and encourages independence of thought and problem-solving across a spectrum of activities: in the conduct of a research dissertation; in critical reading and writing in thematic modules; or in tutorial discussions and presentations.

In addition, the degree explores issues of sustainability and the environment. Atmospheric and many other pollutions are inevitably global issues as they know no boundaries and are included here because sustainability and the environment are increasingly important global issues, including the international competition for scarce resources such as oil and water.

Entry Requirements

Route 1: Entry to Year 1 Degree

• Successful completion of STPM with 2 full passes or equivalent with minimum CGPA of 2.0 and completion of SPM or equivalent; or
• Successful completion of A-Level with at least a pass in 2 subjects and successful completion of O-Level or equivalent; or
• Recognised Matriculation or foundation with CGPA 2.0; or
• A qualification that APIIT accepts as equivalent to the above.

All students must demonstrate that they have met the equivalent of IELTS 6.0 either through formal English language assessment or through success in a prior study at “A” level or equivalent in English.

Route 2: Direct Entry to Year 2 Degree

• Successful completion of the relevant APIIT Diploma, or
• Successful completion of the study in another recognized institution with academic credits equivalent to Year 1 of an honors degree in relevant subjects

Programme outline

Topics you will experience include:

Year 1

• Cinema Film Analysis

• Issues in World Politics

• Making History: Debating the Past

• Making History: Local & Global Perspectives

• Modern Political Ideas

• Philosophy, Life, and Existence

• Sustainable Lifestyles & Communities

• War, Peace & Cooperation

Year 2

• Environmental Policy, Legislation & Regulation

• Concepts in International Relations

• Dissertation: Preparation Plan

• Money, Trade, and Development

• Development of the Global System

• International Security

• Broadcast Journalism and Government

• South Asian History, Politics, and Culture

Internship

Year 3

• Sustainability, Planning & Environmental Policy

• Dissertation in International Relations I

• Dissertation in International Relations II

• Governance & Global Policy

• Conflict and Journalism

• The government, Intelligence Agencies, and the 21st Century World

• International Communications

• Transnational Organised Crime

In addition to the above, all students are required to successfully complete General Studies modules as stipulated by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, as well as fulfill credit requirements for Co-Curricular Activities.

Graduate Employment

The award equips students with practical and academic skills attractive to employers. These include independent judgment, self-reflection, and critical debate. Students may choose to use the specialist knowledge acquired, to work in one of the many international institutions, national foreign or defense ministries or internationally oriented organizations of many sorts. Graduates will find employment across a wide range of careers destinations including the education sector, government agencies, local authorities, political consultancies, or will enter the industrial or commercial sectors. Others will undertake further postgraduate training across a range of academic and vocational courses.