COURSE CURRICULUM

The Politics and International Relations degree provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, ideas, and global challenges. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts through modules such as Political Ideas, Comparative Political Systems, and Introduction to Environmental Politics, as well as practical engagement in Politics in Practice and the Global Challenges Lab. This establishes a broad understanding of how political theory and institutions shape societies locally and globally. In the second year, students build on this knowledge by exploring British politics, theories of government and policy, and research methods in preparation for their final-year dissertation. Core modules such as Authority, Democracy and Justice, UK Politics, Researching Politics, and We, the People are complemented by option modules that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests, covering topics like international institutions, war and terrorism, and social critique. The final year focuses on advanced analysis and independent research, with a core focus on Activism and Social Change and a Politics Dissertation. Students may also select option modules exploring areas such as radical political economy, human rights, global social policy, Middle Eastern politics, and race in international relations. The course develops critical thinking, research, and practical engagement skills, preparing graduates for careers in government, policy, activism, or further academic study.