Politics and International Relations, BA (Hons)

The study of politics and international relations offers a dynamic exploration of two interconnected fields, addressing critical issues such as national security, social inequalities, and the climate crisis. This degree provides a rigorous foundation in political thought, institutions, and global relationships, while fostering transferable skills valued by employers. Structured around core themes, the program allows students to customize their studies through optional modules on topics like security, conflict, comparative politics, and environmental impacts. Opportunities for a work placement or international study year can extend the course to four years, ensuring it remains informed by ongoing research from the School of Government and International Affairs.The curriculum includes core modules across three years, such as introductions to comparative politics, international relations, and political theory, alongside practical research training. In later years, students undertake a research project and dissertation, with options in areas like global governance and political economy. Assessment methods vary, including exams, essays, group projects, and the final dissertation, which evaluates critical thinking and real-world application, preparing graduates for careers in policy, journalism, academia, or the public sector.

Year 1 Core modules: Researching Politics and International Relations introduces a range of strategies used to produce knowledge in politics and international relations. This module examines the strengths and weaknesses of a range of research methods. You will gain some practical experience of carrying out research in politics and international relations. Introduction to Comparative Politics introduces methods, approaches and key concepts in comparative politics. Drawing on historical texts and contemporary research you will explore a range of policy-relevant issues and begin to develop a problem-solving view of politics. Introduction to International Relations provides an overview of the field of international relations including its historical context and traditions of thought. The module addresses core concepts in the field including power, sovereignty, the international system, the international society, the state and norms. Introduction to Political Theory provides an overview of the role that key political ideals, values and theories play in shaping modern political thought: justifying and evaluating political institutions and public policy, and influencing political behaviour and change. In recent years, optional modules have included: Democratic Political Systems International Security, Interdependence and Organisation Perspectives of Political Economy. Year 2 Core modules: The Research Project is an extended piece of work produced within a structured framework that will help prepare you for the demands of writing a dissertation. You will gain a deeper understanding of politics as an academic subject and as an aspect of wider human activity. Foundations of Western Political Thought examines some of the main currents of European political thought in the ancient and modern worlds. It will also develop your ability to interpret major texts in the history of political thought. Analytical Politics introduces the theoretical models and mechanisms of politics. Learning how to apply these models to a range of political issues and processes will develop your problem-solving skills and help you link theory and evidence. International Theory develops knowledge of the major debates in contemporary international relations theory. The module helps to build a wider understanding of theoretical, conceptual and methodological matters in the study of domestic and international politics. International Organisations examines the role of key organisations in international relations, and their external impact. Looking at organisations such as the United Nations, the European Union, the World Trade Organization, NATO, ASEAN, etc., you will gain an understanding of the dynamic nature of global governance with emphasis on the dynamics of the global international environment. In recent years, optional modules have included: International Theory The Politics of Pacific Asia Foundations of Western Political Thought International Organisations Sovereignty, State and Empire Capitalism: History and Theory Middle East in the International System Debates in Political Theory. Year 3 (Year 4 if undertaking a placement year or year abroad) The Dissertation is a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of politics. It develops your ability to plan and manage your own learning and provides you with an opportunity to research a specific topic in greater depth and present your findings and conclusions. In recent years, optional modules have included: British Political Thought Muslims and Politics in the Modern World Social and Political Philosophy Theories of Liberty The American Presidency China in Global Political Economy Israel: Politics and Society Elections and British Politics Woman, Gender and Politics in the US Advanced Topic in International Political Theory: the International Politics of Everyday.