In-person Programme
    Upcoming

    International Relations Summer Course

    by Atlas Summer Courses

    Study diplomacy, conflict and global challenges through small seminars, tutorials, independent work and personalized academic feedback.

    Last verified: 30 Aug 2026Reviewed by:BSBen Stacy
    International Relations Summer Course
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    International Relations Course at a glance: cost, dates and eligibility

    Current status

    Upcoming

    Eligibility

    Interest and working English

    Age range / Year group

    Ages 16-17

    Location / Region

    Cambridge, UK

    Cost

    From £5,495

    Duration

    2 weeks

    Format

    In-person

    Next session

    27 June-10 July 2027

    Save program
    International RelationsPolitics

    Language: English

    Class size: Up to 10 students

    Accommodation: Residential or non-residential

    Meals: Half-board residential

    Outcome: Certificate and recommendation

    Assessment style: 2 essays or problem sheets

    Accreditation: BAC-accredited provider

    International Relations Course summary

    A discussion-led International Relations course exploring diplomacy, security, development, human rights and the forces shaping relationships between countries.

    Students combine small seminars with tutorials and substantial independent study, completing written work and receiving focused academic feedback.

    It best suits curious students who follow world affairs, enjoy comparing perspectives and want to test university-style social-science study.

    What is International Relations Summer Course?

    The International Relations Summer Course is an academically focused Atlas Summer Courses experience centered on how countries, international organizations and other actors interact. Students consider power, cooperation, conflict, diplomacy, trade and contemporary global challenges.

    Teaching combines small seminars, tutorials and private study. Tutors adapt the syllabus to their expertise and the group's interests, while students compare perspectives, develop arguments and receive detailed feedback on independent work.

    Why Succeed highlights International Relations Course

    • Seminars are capped at 10 students, creating space for active discussion and individual contribution.

    • Two independent assignments are developed through 1:1 or 2:1 tutorials with personalized academic feedback.

    • The flexible syllabus can respond to student interests and current developments in world affairs.

    • Students receive a certificate, detailed feedback and a personalized tutor recommendation.

    • Residential and non-residential tiers give families different accommodation and pricing options.

    Who is International Relations Course for?

    Best for

    Students who follow current affairs, enjoy debate and want a demanding introduction to university-style International Relations.

    Not ideal if

    You prefer a fixed syllabus, lecture-only teaching or a course with little independent reading and writing.

    Is International Relations Course worth it?

    This course has a strong academic structure for students who want more than a general overview of world affairs. Small seminars, tutorial feedback and independent assignments provide a realistic taste of discussion-led higher education.

    The limitation is value: the fee is substantial, and exact topics vary because tutors set their own syllabi. It is most worthwhile when the student genuinely enjoys sustained reading, argument and written work rather than choosing it mainly for the Cambridge setting.

    A practical overview of cost, accommodation, meals, dates and provider details to review before deciding.

    Cost and what is included

    From £5,495; includes Small-group seminars, tutorials and workshops., Certificate awarded on completion., Breakfast and dinner with residential packages., Accommodation with residential packages., Trips and activities with applicable packages., Heathrow transfers and insurance on applicable packages..

    Accommodation

    Residential or non-residential

    Meals

    Half-board residential

    Supervision or safety information

    Experienced on-course teams provide 24-hour support, age-appropriate supervision, regular check-ins and accommodation security measures.

    Provider details

    Review the Atlas Summer Courses provider page and official sources before making a final decision.

    Dates and logistics

    2 weeks; Cambridge, UK.

    What to check before committing

    Confirm current dates, payment terms, travel arrangements, cancellation rules and what is included with the provider.

    Compare this program with similar options before deciding on dates, cost, format and fit.

    Compare with similar programs

    How much preparation does International Relations Course need?

    Effort level

    High academic commitment.

    Best started

    Begin six to eight weeks before applying, especially if travel or visa planning is required.

    Main challenge

    Forming evidence-based arguments on complex issues with no simple answers.

    Typical preparation

    • Follow major international stories and practice comparing how different countries frame the same issue.

    • Draft the required personal statement around your academic interests, motivation and goals.

    • Gather student, guardian and school details before starting the online form.

    • International families should review visa or ETA requirements before committing to travel.

    Useful if

    You enjoy current affairs, discussion, independent reading and analytical writing.

    What do students do on International Relations Course?

    Students investigate international political questions through discussion, case studies, independent reading and written analysis. Tutorial meetings turn that work into detailed academic feedback.

    Step-by-step process

    1. 1

      Explore nationalism, states, diplomacy, security and contemporary global challenges.

    2. 2

      Take part in six three-hour small-group seminars.

    3. 3

      Prepare readings and arguments before seminar discussions.

    4. 4

      Complete two independent essays or problem sheets.

    5. 5

      Discuss each assignment in a 1:1 or 2:1 tutorial.

    6. 6

      Join a critical-thinking masterclass and a progress-reflection session.

    International Relations Course dates and deadlines

    June session

    27 June-10 July 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    Early July session

    4-17 July 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    Mid-July session

    11-24 July 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    Late July session

    18-31 July 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    July-August session

    25 July-7 August 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    August session

    1-14 August 2027

    Two-week Cambridge course.

    Upcoming

    Eligibility and requirements

    • Aged 16-17 at the course start.

    • Genuine interest in the chosen subject.

    • Working spoken and written English.

    • No previous International Relations study required.

    • Personal statement required with the application.

    • Parent or guardian details required for under-18s.

    How much does International Relations Course cost?

    Program fee

    From £5,495 — Lowest listed non-residential option.

    Funding or discounts

    • Residential packages: £6,995-£9,995 — Accommodation and benefits vary by tier.
    • Deposit: £1,295-£1,495 — Package-level Cambridge deposits.
    • Scholarships: Not offered — No current Atlas scholarships or bursaries.
    • Payment plans: Available — Remaining balance can be paid in installments.

    What's included

    Small-group seminars, tutorials and workshops., Certificate awarded on completion., Breakfast and dinner with residential packages., Accommodation with residential packages., Trips and activities with applicable packages., Heathrow transfers and insurance on applicable packages.

    How to apply to International Relations Course

    1. 1

      Enter the student's date of birth and select International Relations, preferred dates and package.

    2. 2

      Provide student contact details, country of residence and parent or guardian details.

    3. 3

      Write a personal statement explaining subject interest, goals and relevant achievements.

    4. 4

      Add the student's current or most recent school details.

    5. 5

      Review the selected course, dates, accommodation, personal information and fees.

    6. 6

      Submit the form for individual admissions review.

    7. 7

      If offered a place, accept the offer and pay the deposit to secure it.

    What does International Relations Course cover?

    The program covers the following focus areas.

    States and Nationalism

    Examine state power, national identity and international political dynamics.

    Diplomacy and Cooperation

    Explore why countries cooperate and how diplomacy shapes relationships.

    Conflict and Security

    Analyze conflict causes, security and approaches to preventing war.

    Global Challenges

    Debate development, climate responsibility and cross-border problems.

    Human Rights and Institutions

    Consider human rights and the role of international organizations.

    Curriculum may be adjusted based on participant interests and current developments.

    What is a typical day on International Relations Course?

    A typical day during the program.

    Small group seminars

    Discussion, case studies and activities cover international issues.

    Tutorials

    Two tutorial hours provide focused assignment feedback.

    Private study

    Students complete reading and independent written work.

    Social program

    Activities, workshops or outings complement academic study.

    Who teaches on International Relations Course?

    Atlas selects experienced educators and subject specialists active across academia, industry and education. Tutors shape their syllabi around their expertise and guide students through small seminars and 1:1 or 2:1 tutorials.

    Tutor profiles are examples from previous courses; teaching assignments are confirmed closer to summer.

    Where do students stay on International Relations Course?

    Residential plan

    • Room options: Single or twin rooms are offered, with shared or private bathrooms by tier.
    • Meals: Breakfast and dinner are provided at accommodation or local restaurants.
    • Pastoral support: On-course staff provide welfare support throughout the stay.
    • Social and cultural program: Supervised activities and cultural outings complement academic study.

    Non-residential plan

    • Day option: A non-residential tier is listed for every published session.

    Room type and bathroom arrangements depend on the selected tier.

    What happens after International Relations Course?

    After completing this program, participants often pursue:

    Test whether International Relations suits future university study.

    Build analytical writing and independent research skills.

    Receive a certificate documenting course participation.

    Use detailed tutor feedback to guide future academic development.

    Gain a personalized recommendation supporting future aspirations.

    Most Atlas courses are not credit-bearing.

    Where does International Relations Course take place?

    The course takes place in Cambridge using college facilities hired by Atlas for the summer. Students experience a historic academic city with renowned libraries and a long tradition of political thought, diplomacy and debate.

    Atlas is an independent provider with no formal connection to the University of Cambridge or its constituent colleges.

    International Relations Course FAQs

    No. There are no formal entry requirements, but students should have a genuine interest in the subject and a good working understanding of spoken and written English.

    Possible areas include nationalism, states, diplomacy, international organizations, conflict, security, development, climate responsibility and human rights. Exact topics vary because tutors tailor the syllabus to their expertise and the group's interests.

    Teaching combines six three-hour seminars, one tutorial each week and around 20 hours of private study. Students discuss ideas, prepare readings and develop independent arguments.

    Students complete two essays or problem sheets. Each is evaluated and discussed in a 1:1 or 2:1 tutorial.

    The course-specific page states that classes have up to 10 students, supporting active participation and focused tutor feedback.

    Students receive a certificate of completion, detailed tutor feedback and a personalized letter of recommendation.

    Yes. A non-residential option is listed alongside residential Plus, Superior and Premier packages.

    Experienced on-course teams provide 24-hour support, age-appropriate supervision, regular check-ins and accommodation security measures.

    Alternatives to International Relations Course

    Compare these related programs by academic focus, delivery style, location and overall fit.

    Alternatives to International Relations Course

    It keeps Cambridge and International Relations while widening the academic scope.

    International Relations
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    14-18
    Cambridge
    In-person

    Best for

    Students who want broader subject exploration.

    View details

    It offers a related Cambridge experience with a leadership emphasis.

    International Relations
    Deadline: Not announced
    From £5995
    16-18
    Cambridge
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    Best for

    Students interested in leadership and global affairs.

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    Ben Stacy

    Content reviewed by

    Ben Stacy

    Co-founder, Succeed | Former secondary teacher and educational leader

    Ben works at the intersection of education, technology and school adoption, with expertise in how secondary schools evaluate data-driven tools and how education technology is used in practice.

    Sources and verification

    Source types reviewed

    • Atlas Summer Courses | Airport Transfers and Travel Guide
    • Terms and Conditions for Courses | Atlas Summer Courses
    • What Happens After You Apply to Atlas Summer Courses – Your Next Steps
    • Atlas Summer Courses Dates and Prices – Flexible Payment Plans
    • International Relations Summer School Ages 16-17 | Cambridge Summer Courses
    • Search Results | Atlas Summer Courses
    • Articles | Atlas Summer Courses
    • Atlas Summer Courses Alumni Network
    • How to Apply for Atlas Summer Courses – Step-by-Step Guide
    • Atlas Summer Courses FAQs | Fees, Dates, Applications & Safety
    • Apply for Atlas Summer Courses
    • International Relations | Atlas Summer Courses

    Succeed uses official provider information where available, but keeps this public page focused on comparison and planning inside Succeed.

    What we verified (on 30 Aug 2026)

    • Course identity checked

    • 2027 sessions verified

    • Tier prices reviewed

    • Eligibility confirmed

    • Teaching format checked

    • Application process reviewed

    • Accommodation details checked

    • Safety guidance reviewed

    How Succeed uses this information

    We use source material to verify core facts, then show older cycle dates as reference when a current cycle is not available. Always check current application instructions before applying.