International Study Centre

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Law, International Relations and Social Sciences

Study Law, International Relations and Social Sciences

The Pre-Masters Programme in Business, Humanities, Science and Engineering (Law, International Relations and Social Sciences) provides a route to a variety of related postgraduate degrees at the University of Sussex. There are two lengths of study available. You can choose from a 2-semester or 1-semester option of this programme, depending on entry requirements.

Why study with us?

There are many reasons why you may want to study this preparational programme and have the opportunity to progress to a range of postgraduate degrees. These include:

  • 1st in the world for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024)
  • Courses in Sussex Law School satisfies the academic component of Bar training and the academic component for SRA and BSB purposes*
  • 1st in the UK for our research impact in Sociology in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
  • Sussex is ranked 9th in the UK for Social Science (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024).

What you’ll study

During your programme you will study a combination of academic modules, specific to your pathway, and compulsory modules.

Core modules

Academic English Skills aims to provide thorough training in the language and related academic skills which will enable international students to best achieve their academic potential at university. Our Academic English programme is validated by UK ENIC, the UK government agency responsible for providing information and expert opinion on qualifications and skills worldwide. You will develop awareness and competency in a range of language-related academic skills, including the processes of academic writing, effective and extensive reading strategies, effective participation in seminars and delivery of presentations, and listening to and recording information effectively from lectures. You will also develop the accuracy and range of written and spoken language required to use language effectively and appropriately, with clarity and confidence in an academic context.

This module introduces you to key academic skills by inviting you to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary fashion on a group project. You will study a range of skills targeted towards introductory postgraduate-level research, using key literature. By focusing on a series of key texts, you will learn how to analyse language and structure in academic literature and place this effectively into a larger context. The module culminates in group poster presentations, allowing you to present the research you have undertaken throughout the semester.

*This module is applicable to 2-semester programme only.

This module facilitates your learning about your post-Master's vocation or studies. Through targeted and focused supervision, you will undertake individual research projects into your prospective future work or studies and what skills will be required for you to succeed.

Pathway modules

This module is designed to provide a challenging and stimulating programme of study which considers law in its international social, economic, and political contexts. This module explores selected global problems in their historical, social, political, and economic contexts considering international legal frameworks. 

This module generates a lively and inquisitive interest in the study of International Relations. This module will introduce you to topics, themes, concepts, and perspectives in the academic discipline of International Relations (IR), with the purpose of developing specific subject knowledge of the discipline, and practicing and developing key, relevant intellectual and transferable skills to an FHEQ Level 6.

This module provides you with a grounding in political ideas, exploring key issues and debates in politics from a variety of global perspectives. It will be focused on developing the skills required for university courses at this level, including researching and referencing skills and encouraging you to engage in informed discussion and critical evaluation of academic evidence. Topics will include political ideologies, comparative analysis of political institutions and contemporary political issues. We will also consider how international politics is informed by questions of empire, colonialism, race, gender and class. 

This module introduces you to conflict and development studies. Through targeted reading, lectures and collaborative seminars, you will work towards an assessed essay in which you will use key argumentative skills based on academic research.

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How to apply

Ready to apply? Discover how to submit an application and learn more about fees, semester dates and entry requirements.

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University of Sussex International Study Centre

Develop skills to change the world at the University of Sussex International Study Centre. Improve your English, develop your academic skills, and grow the confidence you need to succeed in your degree.

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English language courses

Our online English Language preparation courses will help you develop your English language skills to the level required to begin your chosen pathway programme.

Join us today

Our Student Enrolment Advisors are available to answer any questions you may have and help you with your application. We can't wait to meet you!