International Relations

Is the world entering a new period of conflict and instability? How do nations interact with one another, and with what intentions? These are the type of questions you'll be asking and answering with a BSc in International Relations from the University of Southampton. We will further your understanding of international and global politics, allowing you to explore democracy and justice in today's society.

You'll examine international political systems and theories, trajectories and developments in contemporary global politics, and develop crucial skills in analytical and critical thinking, as well as highly valued independent research skills. You can also choose from a range of optional modules, for example, you can focus on the politics of the UK, the EU or the US, or study modules in criminology, economics or ethics.

Our alumni have gone on to careers in national and international political institutions, think tanks and advocacy organisations, the civil service, and journalism.

Choose Southampton and you'll also be joining a department ranked 11th in the UK for graduate prospects in politics and international relations (The Complete University Guide 2026.