How much independent study is there in an international relations degree?
An international relations degree includes a significant amount of independent study alongside scheduled lectures, seminars and tutorials. You may need to read academic texts and current affairs, prepare for classes, research topics, write essays, complete group or individual projects, and revise for assessments. The amount varies by university, course structure, year and assessment pattern.
Key points
- Independent study can include reading, note-taking, research, essay writing, presentations and exam preparation.
- The balance between contact hours and self-directed work may change as you progress through the degree.
- Some courses may include a dissertation or substantial research project requiring sustained independent work.
Things to check
- Check the specific course's module descriptions, expected workload and assessment information, as universities define independent study differently.