Politics and International Relations

About the course

BA Politics and International Relations at Roehampton explores power, politics and global affairs in an increasingly interconnected world. The course is designed for students who want to understand how political systems operate, how international relationships are formed, and how global challenges such as conflict, inequality and climate change are addressed.

You will examine politics from local, national and international perspectives, while developing critical and analytical skills that help you make sense of contemporary political issues.

What you’ll study

You’ll build a solid foundation in political and international relations theory and analysis, while gaining professional skills valued across public, private and third sector roles, including analysing political institutions and global systems, understanding international power and diplomacy, evaluating political responses to global challenges, and conducting research to support evidence based arguments and decision making.

Future opportunities

This degree prepares you for a wide range of careers connected to politics, international affairs and public life. Graduates may go on to work in areas such as:

• Government and public sector roles

• International organisations and NGOs

• Policy, research and analysis

• Diplomacy and international development

• Communications, advocacy and public affairs

You will also develop transferable skills in critical thinking, research, writing and communication that are valued across many sectors. Some graduates progress to postgraduate study in politics, international relations, law, public policy or related subjects.

How you’ll learn

You will learn through:

• Lectures and seminars exploring political theory, international relations and current affairs

• Research led teaching informed by contemporary political debates and global case studies

• Coursework based assessment including essays, reports, presentations and a final year project

• Academic guidance and feedback to support your analytical writing and research skills

Digital learning resources are available to support your studies, including online reading materials and recorded content where appropriate.

Facilities

You will study in teaching and learning spaces designed to support discussion, debate and research, including:

• Modern lecture theatres and seminar rooms

• Digital learning platforms and online academic resources

• Library collections supporting politics, international relations and social sciences

• Study spaces that support independent and group work

These facilities support your academic development and help you engage critically with political and global issues.

Course Modules

Examples include:

• Dictatorships and Democracies: Ancient and Modern
• Freedom, Power and Politics
• The Politics of the Middle East