Journalism, Politics and International Relations

Our BA in Journalism, Politics and International Relations examines ideas of freedom, democracy and justice in a modern media world, and investigates how politics and policy are influenced, shaped, and re-shaped by external non-state actors.

At national and global levels, politics has become more mediatised with leaders speaking in soundbites and focused on achieving media cut-through, while political campaigning is no longer limited to pre-election periods and runs year-round. We’ve also seen an increase in public relations strategists and political consultants at the beating heart of politics and political activities.

This isn’t just about leaders and institutions though. It’s also about regular people and a change in how they engage with politics and political representatives. The rise of online communities, new social media movements and broader digital activism has transformed how citizens debate, organise and protest – often spanning countries and continents.

Together, we’ll examine these issues and other shifts in attitudes and behaviours.

This programme introduces you to a wide range of topics and themes, from close analysis of state and sub-state level institutions to global political themes like conflict, governance, populism, security and gender.

You’ll graduate with a confident understanding of the political world and the influence of contemporary journalism and communications platforms and practices. Coupled with your strong intellectual and communications skills, you’ll be suited to a wide range of careers in varied fields and job roles. Whether that’s working in policy or government, for organisations like the United Nations, in the communications field, or the private or voluntary sectors.

It’s important to know that this programme doesn’t offer vocational journalism training. Instead, it will challenge you to think critically and academically to better understand the fast-paced and fast-changing communications and political landscape.

Distinctive Features of the Programme
Bilingual study options
We have strong Welsh-medium provision across a selection of modules.
Exciting, contemporary modules
Choose modules ranging from cyber security to climate change and feminism, or fashion cultures, media power and PR/spin.
Globally focused
Combine journalism, media, politics, and international relations to understand how communication shapes governance and diplomacy worldwide.
Embedded in a media and political capital
Study in Cardiff’s vibrant media hub and political centre, with strong industry partnerships including BBC Wales and Media Wales and links to Senedd Cymru, EU and NATO.
Politics in a digital age
Analyse how social media, 24/7 news cycles, and digital activism influence political communication and international relations in an interconnected world.