COURSE CURRICULUM

In the first year of the Politics and International Relations degree, students are introduced to the foundational concepts of politics and global affairs through six core modules. These modules cover political ideas, comparative political systems, world politics, globalisation, conflict and the environment, and practical engagement with politics through the Politics in Practice module and the Global Challenges Lab. This year focuses on building essential analytical, research, and communication skills while providing opportunities to understand the complexities of local and global political landscapes. In the second year, students expand their knowledge by exploring British politics, theories of government and policy, and international relations theories, including the roles of key global institutions such as the United Nations and the European Union. Core modules such as Colonialism in the Contemporary Global Order, Debating Contemporary International Relations, and International Institutions deepen understanding of contemporary political issues, while students develop research skills through the Researching Politics module. Option modules allow students to tailor their studies to individual interests, covering topics like gender, race and the environment, nations and nationalism, authority, democracy and justice, and policy solutions. The community engagement module provides practical experience through voluntary work placements with local non-profit organizations, enabling students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts and contribute to society.