COURSE CURRICULUM

The Politics and International Relations course at Sussex offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum designed to develop a deep understanding of political systems, international affairs, and global challenges. In the first year, students gain a solid foundation through core modules covering British political history, explanatory concepts in political science, classical thinkers, and the rise of the modern international order, alongside research skills and an introduction to international relations. In the second year, students continue to build on this knowledge with modules in contemporary international theory, European politics, international political economy, and modern political thought, while also exploring practical issues such as development, security, feminism, contesting authoritarianism, and the politics of various countries and regions. Optional modules allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests. The third year emphasizes specialization and applied learning, offering a broad range of options covering global crises, environmental politics, political change, human rights, populism, political psychology, and international conflicts. Opportunities for independent study, internships, and global work experiences provide practical insights into politics in action. Throughout the course, students develop critical analytical skills, learn to assess political processes and policies, and gain the practical and theoretical expertise required for careers in government, international organizations, NGOs, research, and policy analysis.