COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics degree offers a comprehensive and intellectually stimulating program that explores the dynamics of domestic and international politics. In the first year, students are introduced to the foundational questions and debates that define the fields of international relations and political science. Core modules cover key political theories, the evolution of global systems, and contemporary political issues such as democracy, war, security, gender, migration, and environmental politics. Students engage with influential thinkers and explore how values such as liberty, equality, and fraternity have shaped modern societies.In the second year, students build on this foundation by critically analysing global politics through a range of theoretical perspectives, including realism, liberalism, Marxism, feminism, and postcolonialism. Alongside theory, students gain essential research skills in both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as interviews, surveys, and data analysis. The year also provides a deeper understanding of how political institutions function and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world.The third year is spent on a placement, offering invaluable real-world experience in a professional setting relevant to the student’s career aspirations. This practical year enhances employability, fosters professional development, and allows students to apply their academic knowledge in a workplace environment.In the final year, students undertake a dissertation or group research project, conducting in-depth research on a topic of their choice under expert supervision. This capstone project enables students to demonstrate their analytical, research, and communication skills, and to consolidate their learning across the degree.Overall, the program equips graduates with a critical understanding of global and national political structures, alongside practical research and communication skills, preparing them for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, media, research, or further postgraduate study.