Year of entry
- 2027
Duration of study
- 4 years
International Governance and Public Policy (in Partnership with Beijing Foreign Studies University) - BA (Hons) and BA Diplomacy
Course summary
This programme is designed for students from China and other Asian countries, who aspire to a career in international organisations or diplomatic services where the use of English is expected. Successful graduates will gain invaluable experience of living and studying across two cultures, demonstrating proficiency in Mandarin and English, equipped with key attributes applicable to a wide variety of careers in the international sphere.
Why study International Governance and Public Policy (in Partnership with Beijing Foreign Studies University) at Keele University?
No.1 in the West Midlands and Top 3 in the UK for International Relations (Guardian University Guide, 2026)
Developed jointly between Keele University and Beijing Foreign Studies University
Broaden your international awareness and engage with real world issues that impact society
Gain experience at a university overseas, working with academics with expertise in various areas
Course overview
Developed jointly by Keele University and Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), the BA International Governance and Public Policy is an interdisciplinary programme combining elements of international relations and diplomacy, and international law. You will develop an understanding of the major political and legal aspects of how international processes are organised and governed.
Looking beyond the core areas of international relations, this programme examines how global interdependence is reshaping the global order, and how international law regulates business and the global economy. You will develop a broad understanding of international contexts and processes as well as focusing on international governance and public policy at its core. This combination of subjects is designed to enable you to apply your knowledge of international processes in ways that will be suitable for professional careers across international organisations within China and beyond.
Course structure
Modules for International Governance and Public Policy (in Partnership with Beijing Foreign Studies University)
Our courses are designed to develop the skills, experience and expertise you'll need to succeed in your chosen career, informed by the latest research, teaching methods, student feedback, and employer insights. Module details are representative of what we intend to deliver on the course, but may change to reflect best practice and academic development. This information should therefore not be considered a definitive list of available modules.
With the first two years spent at BFSU, this programme supports individuals to develop a solid foundation in English language, an introduction to international relations and diplomacy, before spending the third year at Keele, and then returning to BFSU for the final year of study.
Compulsory modules
- Becoming a Social Scientist
- General English
- Academic Study and Seminar Skills
- Academic English Proficiency
- Global Political Sociology
Compulsory modules
- Principles of Political Science
- Contemporary Chinese Foreign Policies
- Academic English for International Governance 1
- The Changing World: A History of International Relations since 1945
- Securing Global Order
- Contemporary Chinese Government and Politics
- History of Chinese Political Thoughts
- Introduction to International Relations
- Introduction to Global Political Economy (GPE)
- US Government and Politics
Compulsory modules
- Academic English for International Governance 2
- Public International Law 1
- International Organisation: Mitigating Anarchy
- Social Science Methods
- Environmental Politics and Policy
- Why Policy Changes
- Foreign Policy
Optional modules
- Public International Law 2
- Social Science Research Methods and Data Analysis
Compulsory modules
- Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs Administration
- Political Science Research Methods
- Dissertation in International Governance and Public Policy
- Translation Practice in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs
- Diplomacy: Theory and Practice
- Environmental Political Economy
Optional modules
- Work Experience
- Politics of Development
- Global Governance of Peace and Security
- UN Peace Operations and Sustainable Development: Theory and Practice
- East Asian Politics and Foreign Policies
You can view the Programme Specification for this course by visiting the Programme Specifications webpage. (opens in new tab)
Double Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework
Keele is one of only 15 broad-based universities in England - out of over 100 - to have been awarded Gold in both the 2017 and 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) exercises, demonstrating our consistent teaching excellence.
Additional opportunities
There are a range of additional opportunities for this course.
Please note that undertaking one may impact the availability of another.
Entry requirements
These are the typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If your qualifications aren't listed, please contact us to check if we can accept them. If you don't think you'll meet the stated requirements, you may be able to access this course via a Foundation Year.
English language requirements
All our courses require an English language qualification or test. Most students meet this through a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please visit our English Language pages for details, including test information for international students. For students who require a test, this course requires a result from .
Alternative and contextual offers
We're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. We offer alternative offer schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying in the Keele region, and recognition of a range of additional qualifications.
General information
The entry grades outlined indicate the typical offer, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary conditions based upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
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Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2027/28 2026/27 academic year
- The tuition fee for UK Home students starting in 2027/282026/27 is set by the UK Government and will be £10,050£9,790.
- International: Band 1, £18,200 for the 2026/27 academic year
International fees for 2027/28 entry have not yet been confirmed. We review all tuition fees annually and will update this page once they are finalised.
In subsequent years of your course, UK Home fees may change in line with government policy or legislative requirements. For continuing international students, fees will increase each year in line with RPI, capped at a maximum of 5% per year.
For details of our international fee bands visit our Undergraduate tuition fees page.
Financial support
Going to university can be daunting as well as exciting. It's important to understand the costs and financial support available.
Our Student Financial Support team offers confidential advice and guidance to help you manage your money, resolve issues with Student Finance, create a budget, explore your options if you're facing financial hardship, and access any funding you are eligible for, such as bursaries and scholarships.
For more information visit our undergraduate fees and funding pages.
Additional costs
The additional costs listed below apply to the 2026/27 academic year. Costs for 2027/28 entry will be confirmed closer to the time, so the information below should be used as a guide only.
Your future career
Successful graduates will benefit from a range of core academic and language skills, preparing them to embark on an exciting career across various areas such as international organisations, international affairs or diplomatic services.
Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.
Teaching, learning and assessment
How you'll be taught
Teaching on this programme will be delivered through various methods in accordance with different modules. You will be taught through lectures, tutorials and seminars, as well as engaging with interactive learning opportunities, independent study and web-based learning. You will also engage with a final year dissertation, enabling you to work on an independent project with supervision and support from a member of staff.
How you'll be assessed
The wide variety of assessment methods used reflect the broad range of knowledge and skills that are developed as you progress through the degree programme.
You will be assessed via:
- Essays - Testing the quality and application of your subject knowledge.
- Unseen Examinations - Demonstrating your subject knowledge by answering questions through a number of short essays.
- Reviews and critiques - Testing your ability to identify, summarise and evaluate key points of text.
- Bibliographic exercises - Showcasing your ability to evaluate the arguments of scholars and summarise key points.
- Research Design Projects and Associated Research Papers - Demonstrating your ability to formulate a research question and identify appropriate research methodology.
- Oral/Group presentations - Assessing your communication skills orally and visually to showcase your knowledge, understanding and team work abilities.
- Portfolios - Evidencing your critical reflection on the development of your own learning.
Academic expertise
The teaching team at the School of Life Sciences are active researchers in core areas such as biosciences, geosciences, environmental sciences, geography and bioengineering. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, demonstrators, and teaching fellows.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team at the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences perform research across the school with particular strengths in materials science, synthetic, forensic and analytical chemistry. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, and lecturers within the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences. They are fellows or senior fellows of the Higher Education Academy, the professional body for teachers in higher education. Fellowship provides individuals with recognition of their practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning. A number of our academic staff have also achieved national recognition for their excellence and innovation in teaching and hold awards from a variety of institutions, including the Royal Society of Chemistry and AdvanceHE.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in core areas of Criminology and Sociology such as fields of crime, globalisation and urban spaces and cultures. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers and graduate teaching assistants.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in core areas of Education such as critical social policy and feminism. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of senior lecturers and lecturers.
The teaching team in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences are active researchers in core areas such as materials, sustainability, and energy. Their academic expertise informs your learning by incorporating current practices, theories, and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele University.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers and lecturers.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in core areas of English and Creative Writing. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, and graduate teaching assistants.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in core areas such as twentieth century and contemporary music, cultural politics, social movements and representation. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, and lecturers.
The teaching team at the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences provide research-led quality teaching, particularly in the fields of forensic chemistry, forensic biology, crime investigations, forensic search and forensic anthropology, taphonomy and archaeology.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, demonstrators and PhD students.
The teaching team at the School of Life Sciences are active researchers in core areas such as biosciences, geosciences, environmental sciences, geography and bioengineering. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, demonstrators, and teaching fellows.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in core areas of medieval, early modern, and modern history including expertise in historical inequality, democratisation and civil society. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, lecturers and graduate teaching assistants.
The teaching team at the School of Medicine are either active researchers in core areas such as musculoskeletal health, mental health and well-being, biomedical science, prognosis and big data, or actively engaged with a diverse range of scholarly activities to enhance their roles as educators.
The teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, senior teaching fellows, teaching fellows, senior research fellows, research fellows, research associates, research assistants, anatomy technicians and PhD students. The School of Medicine teaching team also includes a wide range of health professionals who are actively engaged in clinical research and quality improvement including those based in hospitals and community-based services.
The academic team at the School of Nursing and Midwifery are active researchers in core areas such as loss, bereavement and end of life care; primary, community and district nursing; and women's health. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, research associates and teaching fellows.
The teaching team at the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences perform research across the school with particular strengths in astrophysics, materials science, renewable energy and sustainability. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, readers, and PhD students.
The teaching team in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences are active researchers in areas including democracy, governance, public policy and idealism. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers and graduate teaching assistants in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
The teaching team within the Institute of Sport brings together expertise across sport, exercise, health and rehabilitation, reflecting the continuum of human performance and wellbeing across the lifespan. Our staff are actively engaged in research and applied practice spanning physical activity, performance, health and recovery, ensuring that teaching is informed by both scientific evidence and real-world application. As a CASES-accredited partner institution, and with staff holding individual CASES accreditation, the programme is underpinned by recognised professional standards in sport and exercise science.
Staff operate within an interdisciplinary environment, working alongside colleagues from across the Allied Health Professions within the School. This collaboration informs teaching and supports a broader, integrated understanding of health, physical activity and rehabilitation across diverse populations and contexts.
Collectively, this breadth of expertise shapes your learning experience, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele. The School's teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers and lecturers.
The teaching team at Keele Business School are active researchers in core areas such as accounting, finance, economics, human resource management, marketing, and management. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, and lecturers within Keele Business School. The team is multicultural and multinational, bringing an international dimension to the school's teaching, research, and business engagement.
The teaching team within the School of Allied Health Professions and Pharmacy brings together a diverse community of academics and clinicians working across four interrelated themes: Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Medical Technologies, Allied Health Therapies, and Active Living and Sport.
Our staff include experts in the biological and clinical sciences, statistics, engineering, and professional practice, who contribute to both research and scholarly activity aligned to their disciplines. This breadth of expertise ensures that teaching is informed by current evidence, practice, and innovation, enabling you to engage with contemporary issues relevant to your chosen field.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, readers, visiting clinicians, and research fellows.
Our programmes are supported by experienced professional staff who help to ensure a high-quality student experience throughout your studies.
The teaching team at Keele Business School are active researchers in core areas such as accounting, finance, economics, human resource management, marketing, and management. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, and lecturers within Keele Business School. The team is multicultural and multinational, bringing an international dimension to the school's teaching, research, and business engagement.
The School of Computer Science and Mathematics is home to active researchers working across a rich range of topics, from artificial intelligence, cyber security and human-centred computing to fluid and solid dynamics, biomechanics and pure mathematics. Whether developing responsible AI, designing smart health technologies, or advancing mathematical methods for waves, materials and structures, our research is wide-ranging and internationally recognised.
This will directly shape your learning. You'll encounter current ideas in AI and its ethical implications, cloud computing, evolutionary systems, usable security, mathematical modelling of materials and discrete mathematics, taught by the people actively advancing these fields.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers, readers and visiting research fellows.
Alongside your teaching team, dedicated professional staff will be on hand to support you throughout your time at Keele.
Our teaching team includes readers, senior lecturers, lecturers, research associates and teaching fellows who are active researchers and educators with expertise across a wide range of health and social care disciplines.
Their research and scholarship span areas including musculoskeletal health, mental health and wellbeing, community nursing, women's health, biomedical science, prognosis and big data, contemporary issues in child and family social work, end-of-life care, and international social work practice. Staff also undertake pedagogic research to advance teaching and learning within health and social care education.
This academic expertise informs your learning by incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion and critical thinking within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available throughout your undergraduate studies at Keele to provide guidance and answer any queries you may have.
The teaching team in the School of Law consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers and solicitors. They are all either active researchers (in fields including social justice and human rights; public and European law; ethics, health and social care; and legal education) or experienced legal practitioners. Their academic and professional expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories, and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team at the School of Psychology have expertise spanning cognition and neuroscience, health and wellbeing, social identity and change, and justice and security.
Staff research and scholarship expertise inform your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage active learning and discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
The teaching team consists of professors, senior lecturers, lecturers and teaching fellows within the School of Psychology.
The teaching team at the Harper and Keele Veterinary School includes active researchers in areas such as animal health and wellbeing, animal welfare and farming technologies. Many are currently practising veterinary surgeons and allied professionals, and the course draws on a wide range of expertise across many disciplines through contributions by external lecturers. Their academic expertise informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of readers, professors, senior lecturers, lecturers and teaching fellows.
The academic expertise in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences informs your learning, incorporating current practices, theories and contemporary themes that encourage discussion within your subject area.
Professional support staff are also available to assist with any queries you may have during your undergraduate studies at Keele.
Our teaching team consists of professors, readers, senior lecturers, and lecturers.
Foundation year
Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, offering preparation for your chosen degree with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete.
This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, build your confidence, and provide a better understanding of higher education.
On our Foundation Year, you'll join our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.
The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.
We also offer a January start for some of our Foundation Year courses. Adopting a blended learning approach, the January start is particularly useful for students wishing to return to education following time out of studying, or who are seeking a flexible approach to their Foundation Year studies. Our January start is available across most of our Science, Humanities, Social Science, Health and Business courses.
Whilst still being a full-time course, our blended delivery model combines live teaching sessions - both online and on-campus - with self-directed study, enabling you to predominantly study at a time that suits your lifestyle. You will benefit from weekly online taught sessions which encourage you to engage with your teachers and peers.
In addition to online study there will be a series of full study days that you will be required to attend throughout each semester. These sessions may include lab-based activities, group work, review of course and assessment materials studied online. They will emphasise opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen route.
Please refer to the September start tab for more information about the entry requirements and what you will study. The modules that you will take on a January start Foundation Year will be similar to those for the September start, but on a compressed timescale and tailored to a blended learning approach (with the majority of learning taking place online).
For more information, including fees, the UCAS code for this course, how to apply, and how you will be taught, please visit our January Start Foundation Year webpage.
Our International Foundation Year is delivered on campus through Keele University International College (KUIC). Find out more about the International Foundation Year options on the KUIC website.
Student life at Keele is vibrant, diverse, and packed with opportunities to make the most of your time at university.
We help students manage their money and ensure that they receive any funding for which they may be eligible.
Make yourself more employable after graduation by taking advantage of the whole host of additional opportunities.
