Politics & International Relations BA/BSc
Study of how power works within states and across borders, exploring political systems, global cooperation, diplomacy, conflict, and the forces shaping international affairs.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in global politics
Enjoy analysing international issues
Like debate and discussion
Want an international career
Are curious about world affairs
Popular Career Fields
Government & Public Sector
International Development
Journalism & Publishing
Charity & NGO Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Politically engaged
International Development
Globally aware
Enjoys debate
What is it?
What is a Degree in Politics & International Relations?
Politics & International Relations (PIR) combines the study of political systems, public policy, and political theory with a global perspective on diplomacy, conflict, security, and international cooperation.
You’ll explore how governments operate, how world leaders make decisions, and how global issues such as climate change, terrorism, inequality, and migration are managed.
The degree covers comparative politics, foreign policy, international organisations (e.g., UN, NATO, WTO), political ideologies, global governance, and political behaviour. You’ll use analytical tools to understand current events and long-term global trends.
Why Study Politics & International Relations?
If you’re interested in world affairs, public debate, leadership, or social change, this degree offers a powerful foundation.
It helps you understand:
Why conflicts occur
How diplomacy works
How policies shape domestic and global events
How international systems respond to crises
How political ideas influence societies
This degree can help prepare students for impactful careers in government, NGOs, diplomacy, journalism, international development, and policy analysis.
Course Summary
Study of how power works within states and across borders, exploring political systems, global cooperation, diplomacy, conflict, and the forces shaping international affairs.
What you'll study
This course will cover topics such as:
Political systems, ideologies, and public policy
Global politics, diplomacy, and foreign policy
International organisations and global governance
Conflict, security, and peacebuilding
Comparative politics across different regions
Research methods, political analysis, and case studies
Skills You'll Gain
A Politics & International Relations degree builds strong academic and analytical including:
Global and political analysis – enabling you to interpret international events and understand political decisions.
Research and evidence evaluation – gathering and assessing data to understand policy and geopolitical issues.
Communication and argumentation – clearly presenting complex ideas in writing, debate, and discussion.
Critical thinking – analysing political narratives, evaluating evidence, and challenging assumptions.
Diplomacy and negotiation awareness – understanding how states, organisations, and leaders pursue interests and manage conflict.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates commonly work in:
Foreign affairs and diplomacy
Government and public policy
NGOs, advocacy, and humanitarian work
Think tanks and policy research
International development
Media, journalism, and communications
Security and intelligence analysis
Business, consultancy, and risk analysis
Work Experiences & Placements
Depending on the programme, opportunities may include:
Government departments and civil service
Embassies or international affairs teams
NGOs and humanitarian organisations
Think tanks and policy institutes
Political parties or parliamentary placements
International development organisations
Journalism, media, or political communications
Some programmes offer a placement year or internships in public, private, or international sectors.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Politics, History, Geography, Economics, Sociology, or Modern Languages are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show interest in global issues, political debates, or international affairs.
Mention relevant reading, Model UN, debate clubs, volunteering, or activism.
Reflect on global challenges that motivate you (e.g., conflict, justice, environment).
Highlight communication, critical thinking, curiosity, and analytical skills.
What to do Next
Compare BA and BSc routes depending on whether you prefer theory or data analysis.
Explore regional or thematic specialisms offered by different universities.
Stay engaged with global news, debates, and political developments.
Attend open days or sample IR or politics lectures.
Wider Reading
The Globalization of World Politics – Baylis, Smith & Owens
A widely used introduction to global politics and theories in international relations.Politics: A Very Short Introduction – Kenneth Minogue
A concise guide to political ideas, systems, and debates.International Relations: A Very Short Introduction – Paul Wilkinson
Clear overview of global conflict, cooperation, and the key schools of IR thought.The Tragedy of Great Power Politics – John Mearsheimer
A major work explaining why powerful states compete and why conflict often arises.