BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations

This degree will introduce you to the major historical and contemporary figures, institutions, events and processes behind national and international politics. You will also learn to analyse these processes using the theories and concepts that form the basis of these academic subjects, engaging with the latest research in these areas. While you will also learn about regional and national politics, in choosing to combine Politics with International Relations you will take a largely global perspective.

Some of the topics you will investigate include:

• Democracy and authoritarianism
• Political parties
• Political economy
• International security
• International organisation and the future of global cooperation
• How states interact with each other, and the changing role of the state
• How states respond to collective dilemmas such as inequality, global health and threats to national security

You will learn to explain the historical drivers of social change and analyse the current political landscape. You will be prepared to understand and respond to the challenges which will shape our political future.

There are many ways you can explore this subject beyond the classroom. You have the opportunity to:

• Take part in local, national and international field trips
• Undertake a work experience project
• Study abroad in your second year
• Hear from visiting speakers with many different specialist areas of expertise.
• Attend conferences, seminars, workshops and events

This course is available with a foundation year. This option is ideal if you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto a degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education. A foundation year prepares you for degree level study, giving you the confidence and skills needed to make the most of your course. Passing it guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.

Qualifications

• 104 UCAS Tariff points
• 3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

International Students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

This degree could lead you to a career directly related to Politics, such as working in local government or the Civil Service, or it could take you in a completely different direction, using the many transferrable skills you will develop. These include problem solving, developing arguments, analysing and evaluating information, collaboration, independent working, communication and more.

This degree could be the first step toward your career in:

• Local government
• The Civil Service (they offer a Fast Stream graduate scheme)
• Political and social research
• Charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
• Security and intelligence
• International aid