MPol Politics and International Relations (integrated masters) including year abroad

What is the Integrated Master in Politics (MPol): Politics and International Relations?
The Integrated Master in Politics (MPol): Politics and International Relations is a four-year degree, or five years with an optional placement or year abroad. It combines undergraduate and postgraduate study in a single integrated programme.

Develop advanced analytical skills, deep political insight, and gain a master's qualification that can lead to meaningful careers in government, international organisations, or postgraduate research.

Why this course
The Integrated Master in Politics and International Relations (MPol) lets you fast-track your studies and graduate with both an undergraduate and master’s qualification - reducing visa and application complexity.

You’ll study in a department known for influential research in international politics, diplomacy and global governance. Our work informs policy debates, appears in leading journals and engages with major international organisations, creating a research-active environment where ideas are tested against real-world challenges. Here, you'll build analytical skills and critical perspective, helping you to understand and navigate complex global issues.

With an optional placement or study abroad year, you’ll put your skills to work in real-world settings, expanding your professional experience and global perspective before you graduate.

This course will help you develop the advanced analytical, research and problem-solving skills that employers value, preparing you to approach complex global challenges with confidence and contribute effectively in a wide range of professional settings.

Who should apply
Students aiming to fast-track their studies while reducing visa and application complexity
Those seeking sharper skills in policy analysis and leadership
Aspiring MPs, advisors, campaign managers, and policy strategists
Ambitious students targeting careers in government, political consulting, or public service leadership

What you’ll learn
Political systems and behaviour: Understand how democracies, authoritarian states, and elections function - and why people vote the way they do
Politics at home and abroad: Explore war, diplomacy, and security, connecting global events to domestic politics
Ideas and policy: Investigate ideology, human rights, and climate politics, and how they shape real-world decisions
Research skills: Develop data analysis and research design skills used by leading political scientists
Master's-level expertise: Advance to postgraduate study in your final year to deepen your knowledge and professional edge