International Affairs , 180 hp

About the programme

International Affairs is a three-year bachelor’s programme taught entirely in English, located at University West, Sweden. Students and staff come from across the globe, which gives the programme a truly international, multicultural study environment.

The programme has an international focus, introducing students to current global debates such as inequality, identity politics, decoloniality, climate crisis, democratic erosion, technological development, and digitalisation. International Affairs aims to highlight the local and national, as well as the regional and global scope of contemporary socio-political challenges. The students learn how to identify, analyse, and evaluate such challenges carefully and fairly, using appropriate scientific methods. The programme trains critically reflexive and engaged citizens and professionals.

Besides solid training in political science and international relations, students get to choose a package of specialized courses in either Security or Sustainability.

Study internationally

The programme is thought in English in a classroom full of international students and teachers. International perspectives are included at every stage. During the elective semester, the students can choose to complete an internship or study abroad. University West has agreements with several universities, all over the world. We also have special bilateral agreements for staff and student exchange with the University of the Western Cape in South Africa and San José State University in California, USA.

Career and further studies

International Affairs graduates are in high demand across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. They are prepared for roles like project leaders, analysts, strategists, and researchers, with opportunities in government, international organizations, NGOs, and private companies, both in Sweden and abroad. Our graduates can also continue studying at specialized master programs in Sweden and internationally.

Work Integrated Learning

University West is Sweden’s leading university for Work Integrated Learning (WIL). In line with WIL, International Affairs combines theoretical and practical knowledge through case-based learning, real-world applications, and an optional semester-long internship. The program fosters students’ academic, professional, and personal growth while encouraging collaboration between students and teachers to inspire innovation. With a strong emphasis on dialogue and transformative engagement between academia and society, the curriculum addresses contemporary global challenges. Faculty members are actively involved in research areas such as sustainability, human rights, democracy, international law, and social infrastructure, enriching the learning experience.