Politics and International Relations - Quantitative Methods

Politics is about power: who holds it, who doesn’t and the consequences of these power relations all over the world. This degree explores these issues - with a focus on developing your skills in data-driven political analysis.

You’ll study the core areas of comparative politics, political theory and international relations, building a comprehensive understanding of how politics shapes domestic and global issues.

At the same time, you’ll gain experience with data analysis and a range of quantitative methods - enabling you to evaluate patterns in political behaviour and assess the impact of policy using evidence.

With a large range of optional modules to choose from, and opportunities to study specialist topics such as social justice, global security and secret intelligence, you’ll have the freedom to tailor your degree to your interests and career ambitions.

Throughout the course, you’ll engage with different theories and explore how they inform policy decisions in areas such as global inequality, climate politics, conflict and governance. In doing so, you’ll develop critical thinking, analytical and research skills that are highly valued in many professional fields.

You’ll be part of a vibrant student community. Join societies such as the Politics Society, Debate Society and United Nations Society to make friends, attend trips and build impressive skills for your CV.

You will also have opportunities to hear directly from influential external speakers, giving you rare insights into global security, diplomacy and policy making. Previous guests have included Sir John Sawers, former Chief of MI6, and Major General Tim Cross.

Our graduates go on to work across the private, public and charitable sectors in a variety of roles – from parliamentary assistants and councillors to civil servants, researchers and data analysts.

With its combination of political insight and advanced quantitative expertise, this course equips you with the tools to understand and shape contemporary politics.

Course Highlights:

• You'll develop advanced quantitative methods skills in data collection and analysis.

• Our placements and internship opportunities provide valuable real-world experience that looks great on your CV (https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/politics/study/careers/placements/index.aspx)

• Study abroad opportunities in locations such as China, Europe and the USA.

Proven Results:

• We're ranked in the top 20 in the UK for politics (Complete University Guide 2026).

• Politics and international relations graduates earned a median salary of £39,400 five years after graduation (LEO data from 2022/23 tax year, published in 2025).

Course Modules

For detailed information about the modules you will study, please visit the course page. https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/Politics-and-International-Relations-Quantitative-Methods-BSc-Hons.html

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/Politics-and-International-Relations-Quantitative-Methods-BSc-Hons.html

How you will be assessed

We present you with a variety of different challenges and types of assessment, including exams, essays, verbal presentations and projects. Each unit is assessed separately, meaning there are no daunting final exams at the end of your degree.

You will be given a copy of our marking criteria which provides guidance on how your work is marked. Your work will be marked in a timely manner and you will receive feedback on the tasks you are given.

Assessment methods

• Coursework

• Dissertation

• Essay

• Examinations

• Presentation

• Project work

For detailed information about the course assessment methods please visit the course page: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/Politics-and-International-Relations-Quantitative-Methods-BSc-Hons.html