Politics and International Relations

What is the BA Politics and International Relations?
The BA Politics and International Relations is a three-year degree, with an optional fourth year for a placement or study abroad.

You’ll explore the political and international forces that shape societies and the global system - from institutions, diplomacy and democratic processes to power, conflict, rights and governance. Through hands-on learning, independent research and collaborative projects, you’ll develop the insight and practical skills to interpret complex political and international issues, understand real-world policy, and engage confidently with political and global debate.
Why this course
The BA Politics and International Relations gives you the knowledge and skills to understand the political forces shaping our world, from local elections to global issues. You’ll study power, diplomacy, conflict, and global cooperation while developing research, analytical, and communication skills valued by employers worldwide.

You'll learn in a department where research informs governments and international organisations at the highest levels. Here, you'll discover how political theory informs real-world decision-making.

You can choose to add a fourth year on placement or studying abroad, applying your learning in professional or international settings and broadening your global perspective before graduation.

This course will teach you how to interpret political systems and global relations, evaluate international and domestic policy decisions, and apply theory to today's political and global challenges. You’ll develop the skills to think critically, communicate persuasively and interpret complex international issues - strengthening your readiness for a wide range of early careers, or further postgraduate study.

Who should apply
Students eager to understand power, democracy, and change at both national and international levels
Future policymakers, campaigners, diplomats, journalists, and analysts aiming to influence society
Learners who want to combine academic depth with practical research and real-world experiences
Those looking to keep their options broad - from national politics to international relations
What you’ll learn
Power and politics: Understand how governments, parties, and movements compete and cooperate
International relations: Analyse conflict, diplomacy, and the role of institutions like the UN and NATO
Global challenges: Explore pressing issues such as migration, human rights, climate change, and inequality
Political ideas and theory: Trace the philosophies that shape democracy, justice, and global governance
Research methods: Build practical skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis to study real-world issues

Many of our courses offer a choice of optional modules to tailor your learning experience. More information about these can be found on the University of Essex website.