Teaching & Modules

Modules

Year

Courses are divided into modules. You will normally take modules totalling 360 credits. Each year you will normally take modules totalling 120 credits. 

Required modules

You are required to take the following modules:

  • International Relations Theory (30 credits)
  • History of the International System (30 credits)
  • Introduction to International Economics (30 credits)
  • Conflict and Diplomacy (15 credits)
  • Contemporary Security Issues (15 credits)

Optional modules

There are no optional modules in your first year.

Teaching methods - what to expect

Lectures
Seminars
Group Tutorials

We use lectures, seminars and group tutorials to deliver most of the modules on the course. You will also be expected to undertake a significant amount of independent study. At King’s, all students on a taught programme are allocated a personal tutor who will play a key role in helping you to get the most out of your studies, providing support and encouragement for your time at university.

Personal tutors provide you with the opportunity to periodically take stock of your learning, academic progress, and general wellbeing as you progress through your studies, offering guidance on how to seek further support if you need it, and how to access the range of opportunities available to you as a King's student.

The following table will give you an idea of what a typical academic workload might look like as you progress through your studies:

Course stage

Percentage of time in scheduled learning and teaching activities

Percentage of time in guided independent study

Year 1

15%

85%

Year 2

15%

85%

Year 3

15%

85%

Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.

Assessment

  • Coursework
  • Written/practical examinations

Your performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations. Assessment methods will depend on the modules you have selected to study. Forms of assessment may typically include: coursework and research essays, policy briefs, critical reviews, written examinations, individual and group presentations and a written dissertation. Informal assessments and seminar activities also form part of the course structure, and while not for credit, these are an essential component of the overall learning process that allows you to further your skills and to develop, evaluate and refine details and arguments.

Key Information

Course type:

Single honours

Delivery mode:

In person

Study mode:

Full time

Required A-Levels:

AAA

Duration:

Three years

Application status:

Open

Start date:

September 2026

Application deadline:

23 November 2025