Ripon College

What you'll study

The programme offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the political, economic, cultural and environmental dimensions of contemporary globalisation. Students take a mix of core modules, regional or thematic specialisms and skills-based courses. Typical topics include:

• Foundations of Globalisation: theories and history of global interconnectedness.
• International Political Economy: trade, finance, development and the role of institutions.
• Global Governance and International Law: the UN, regional organisations and transnational regulation.
• Migration and Diaspora Studies: movement of people, citizenship and transnational identities.
• Cultural Globalisation: media, identity, global popular culture and communications.
• Environmental Politics and Sustainability: global environmental governance, climate policy and sustainable development.
• Research Methods and Quantitative Skills: data analysis, qualitative methods, and designing independent research.
• Language and Area Studies: an optional modern language and regional specialisms (e.g. Latin America, East Asia, Europe).
• Capstone Project and Internship: a final-year dissertation or applied project plus opportunities for workplace placement or study abroad.

The degree structure balances required core modules with elective choices so you can tailor your pathway towards academic, policy or professional outcomes. Small-group seminars, team projects and applied experiential modules are emphasised.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary education qualification with a competitive academic record. Specific offers depend on your country and qualification; the college considers national equivalents and holistic aspects of applications including personal statements and references. Typical elements of a successful application include:

• A strong record in humanities, social sciences or related subjects at secondary level.
• A personal statement demonstrating interest in global issues and examples of relevant experience (volunteering, language study, travel, internships or extra-curricular engagement).
• One or more academic references.
• For students whose first language is not English, evidence of English-language proficiency to the level required by the college (through an approved test or recognised qualification).

Admissions may also invite applicants to interview or submit a piece of written work. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or volunteering experience are welcome to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field go on to a wide range of roles across the public, private and third sectors. Common destinations include:

• International development and humanitarian organisations (programme officer, project coordinator).
• Public policy and government (policy analyst, diplomatic service, civil service roles).
• Non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups (campaigning, research, communications).
• International business and trade (market research, corporate responsibility, global supply-chain roles).
• Media, journalism and research (foreign affairs reporting, think-tank researcher).
• Further study in areas such as international relations, development studies, law, business or public policy.

The programme’s emphasis on research methods, language skills, internships and study abroad is designed to give graduates practical experience and professional networks that enhance employability.

Why study at Ripon College

Ripon College offers a close-knit liberal-arts environment where small class sizes mean regular interaction with faculty and opportunities for independent research. The college places strong emphasis on experiential learning: students are encouraged to take internships, field projects and study-abroad semesters to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Faculty specialising in global politics, development and cultural studies supervise capstone projects and support career preparation through mentoring and links with regional employers and international partners. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach and practical focus make it well suited to students who want to understand global challenges while developing transferable analytical, communication and research skills.