Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Politics and International Relations

at De Montfort University United Kingdom

The language you speak shapes the world you see. This degree helps you understand both better, and to make connections between what you study and what goes on in the world beyond the classroom.

You will develop skills in linguistic analysis and your own abilities to use language adeptly and appropriately in any potential context. You will also acquire a range of key transferrable skills including, among others, textual analysis, synthesis, writing and general presentation skills, which will equip you for a wide range of careers.

We live in a world governed and connected by technology. At DMU we believe that you should study the nature of the 'wired' environment and how it influences who you are. As part of our approach to digital humanities, you will have the opportunity to see how communication and language operate on web-based platforms, and how the application of digital tools and methods can deepen the knowledge of your chosen subject area.

Computational Intelligence (CI) encompasses the techniques and methods used to tackle problems that traditional approaches to computing struggle to solve. The four areas of fuzzy logic, neural networks, CI optimisation and knowledge-based systems encompass much of what is considered to be computational (or artificial) intelligence. There are also opportunities to apply what you learn in areas such as robot control and games development, depending on your interests.

You can choose from a number of specialist modules including natural language processing, artificial neural networks and data mining techniques, while developing your skills in our dedicated robotics laboratory, equipped with a variety of mobile robots. The applied computational intelligence module considers knowledge-based systems, as well as the historical, philosophical and future implications of AI, and focuses on current research and applications in the area.   

Graphic design opens the door to an extensive variety of creative roles, from positions in agencies, freelance consultancy, in-house or even opportunities to set up your own studio. Advertising, animation, visual effects or stylist, there are many directions a graphic design degree can take you.

Gain the essential experience required to become a successful graphic designer and graduate with an impressive portfolio that demonstrates your skills and talents, showcasing your capabilities to prospective employers.

Not only do you learn how to apply your creativity, you’ll also be able to develop other areas such as research, analytical and entrepreneurial skills. Teaching staff are practising designers with a range of experience and close industry links, allowing you to spend time working with professional clients.

If you dream of a career in music production, audio engineering, programming, mastering or mixing, DMU’s course in Music Production is designed specifically for you.

This course covers the science and technology of audio and recording systems and how these can be used effectively in recording, mixing and mastering and sound design. You will develop skills in audio mixing and mastering, learn the principles of electronics and acoustics, study the measurement and design of recording and audio product environments, and produce sound for digital media, including radio, television, film, video games and online content.

Through core modules, you will learn about the fundamentals of audio engineering, discover the acoustical foundations of musical sounds and be introduced to studio techniques. In your second and third year, you will build your portfolio and have the chance to organise and perform your own events in the heart of Leicester.

You will build a skillset that will equip you for roles in areas such as studio recording, audio and post-production, sound system installation, management and sound for film and TV. Our graduates have gone on to work in successful roles for major companies including Bauer Media and Spotify.

Mechanical engineering touches virtually every aspect of modern life. It’s at the forefront of developing new technologies for a multitude of industries including transport, healthcare, construction, and robotics.

You will learn fundamental skills and knowledge by studying core modules such as Engineering Mathematics, Mechanical Principles and Machines and Mechanisms. You will be able to take optional modules such as Design for 3D Printing, Bioengineering and Emerging Materials and Processes to tailor the course to your interests. Modules such as Product Design, Project Management and Engineering Business Environment equip you with the professional skills you need to work in industry.

DMU’s Music Technology BA is a distinctive, dynamic and market-leading course that challenges conventions in music composition and performance and explores the extraordinary musical possibilities offered by new technologies. It is ideal for forward-thinking and imaginative individuals whose passion is to create exceptional music and forge a unique voice within the arts and creative industries.

You will explore an extensive range of approaches to creating and performing, such as multi-track recording, production and composition, new technologies for musical performance, music and sound for moving image, sound synthesis theory and practice, site-specific and installation work, computer coding for the creative artist, and advanced surround sound.

You will study digital and post-digital history and aesthetics to inspire your creative vision and link your music meaningfully to the world. Based on your goals, you will choose specific compositional, technical and theoretical topics to research more deeply, particularly as you enter our flexible third year of study.

The course is taught by internationally recognised, experienced musicians who are active performers, composers and researchers.

Our professional, broad-minded and flexible graduates are well positioned to succeed in the thriving and rapidly changing contemporary digital media and music industries, and have a very strong track record at gaining employment as composers, sound designers, performing and recording artists, session musicians, recording engineers, producers and audio technicians in music management, theatre, TV and radio content and production. 

On this course you will place your own practice (whether emerging or established) at the heart of your studies. Using a range of artistic and scholarly perspectives from dance and other artistic disciplines, you will explore new approaches to the research and realisation of choreography in professional and academic contexts.  The curriculum emphasises the development of practice research, interdisciplinarity and authorship.

Balancing taught with independent study, the course is delivered from practical and scholarly perspectives through studio-based and classroom activities. You will explore practice-research methods, critical choreographic contexts, performance making and negotiated study. You are encouraged to personalise your studies by drawing directly upon your background, identity, culture and specialist movement practices. Teaching is delivered by acclaimed artist practitioners and academics in the fields of dance and wider creative practices.

Graduates from a range of subject areas, who wish to add this discipline to their portfolio, have the opportunity to master the technical skills and knowledge required for a career in computing on this course.

You will develop your programming and systems analysis know-how by studying modules such as Object-Oriented Programming and Systems Analysis and Design, while also growing a robust skillset in practical areas including E-Commerce Software and Database Systems and Design.  

In your final semester, you will work on your individual project, with the support of an academic supervisor, giving you the opportunity to produce a substantial piece of work on a topic of your choice.

You will be taught by experts from the Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility, which is internationally recognised for applied research expertise, ensuring exposure to the most recent developments in both the theory and practice of modern computing.

You can apply even if you have no previous experience in computing, but you will need to demonstrate some aptitude for logical analysis.

A rapidly expanding field worldwide, Psychological Well-being evaluates the factors that characterise and influence mental health and wellbeing, nurturing your understanding of the cultural, social and economic contexts in which they develop.

Many of our experienced academic team have expertise in the specific domains of wellbeing, which are embedded within the course, including developmental psychology, occupational psychology, health psychology, clinical psychology, counselling psychology and cognitive/biological psychology.

Benefit from some sessions which are delivered by practitioner psychologists who hold registration with the Health and Care Professions Council. Teaching facilities include dedicated laboratory and practical work areas, an observation suite and a vision research laboratory.

Completion of the c ourse will lead to a number of career opportunities worldwide, including research, teaching and those within the caring professions. It also facilitates career development and progression. Other students might use the course as a stepping stone to specialised PhD study.

A constantly evolving sector, the multibillion-pound computer games industry is now worth more than double its value in 2007. This offers graduates extensive career opportunities in a rapidly expanding field.

This course provides an opportunity to develop your interest in computer games into a set of skills which will help you start a career in this exciting industry.

You will study the latest techniques and resources for developing standalone, web-based and mobile games, featuring exciting graphics and animation, becoming familiar with the basic architecture and design elements of computer games and programming languages relevant to games development.