Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

The Bachelor of Arts in International Relations offers a rigorous academic and practical foundation for students interested in global affairs. The curriculum explores core themes such as international politics, foreign policy analysis, diplomatic protocol, global security, international law, and multilateral relations. With a special emphasis on African perspectives, the program aligns regional realities with global trends, preparing students for careers on the cutting edge of diplomacy and international cooperation.

Students benefit from experiential learning, including internships at embassies, international organizations, and think tanks. Simulated negotiations and conflict resolution exercises enable them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, fostering the skills needed to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. The program also emphasizes intercultural understanding and ethical leadership, key competencies for addressing today’s most pressing global issues.

By aligning with Uganda UHEQF and Vision 2040, the program creates globally competent graduates who can represent and advance African interests on the international stage. This program equips students with the tools to advocate for sustainable development, champion human rights, and build partnerships that foster a peaceful and prosperous world.

At the end of this programme, graduates will be able to:

1. Global Systems Proficiency: Demonstrate a deep understanding of international systems, treaties, and diplomacy to address global challenges effectively.
2. Critical Analysis: Apply advanced critical thinking to evaluate international relations theories, policies, and their socio-economic impacts.
3. Ethical Application: Integrate principles of ethics and sustainability into decision-making processes in international contexts.
4. Communication Mastery: Exhibit strong communication and negotiation skills for impactful engagement in diplomacy and cross-cultural collaboration.
5. Strategic Leadership: Develop innovative solutions and strategies to advance Uganda’s national development goals within global frameworks.

Applicants for the program shall be eligible for admission in the following ways:

1. Direct Entry Scheme

Applicants shall satisfy the general minimum entry requirements stipulated by National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). Candidates seeking admission through this avenue must have obtained: –

• The Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) with at least six credits of which two credits must be in English and Mathematics.
• The Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) with at least two Principal Passes obtained at the same sitting, which passes must include one of the subjects such as Mathematics and Physics, or its equivalence from UNEB or a legitimate national authority.
• Foreign students without UACE or its equivalent qualifications, who have successfully completed secondary school education and are admissible to university degree or diploma programmes in their respective home countries. Such students shall have passed at least five subjects with a minimum overall grade of C (Plain). In addition, foreign students whose studies were not conducted in English shall show proof of proficiency in the English Language.

1. Diploma Entry Scheme

Candidates seeking admission through the Diploma holder’s Scheme must:

• Have passed Mathematics and English with at least a credit in the Uganda Certificate of Education or its equivalent
• Have done a combination involving such as Mathematics and Physics, or their equivalent at UACE and passed at least one of the subjects at Principle level
• Have obtained a diploma or its equivalent qualification (at credit/distinction level) in the relevant field from a recognized higher institution of learning.

1. Mature Age Entry

The applicant must have passed Mature Age Entry Examinations (with at least 50%) of any institution dully authorized by the NCHE to issue such examination. For purposes of admission the Mature Age Entrance Certificate shall be valid for no more than two years.

Direct Entry (UACE results)

Three Years

Diploma Holder in any course

Two Years

Tuition Structure

Online $250 (Ugx 925,000) per Term

On campus $375 (Ugx 1,400,000) per Semester