How much writing is there in an international relations degree?
An international relations degree usually involves a substantial amount of writing, although the workload varies by university and module. Assignments may include analytical essays, policy briefs, literature reviews, research papers, case studies and a final dissertation or project. Some courses also assess students through exams, presentations, simulations or group work.
Key points
- Writing generally requires evaluating evidence, comparing theories and making a well-supported argument.
- You may write about topics such as diplomacy, conflict, international law, security, economics or global institutions.
- Assessment details can change between modules and years, so check the course specification for the balance of essays, exams and other work.
Things to check
- The amount and type of writing depend on the specific programme, study level and module choices.