COURSE CURRICULUM

The Politics and International Relations degree offers a comprehensive study of political systems, ideas, and global challenges across three years. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge through modules on British politics, comparative politics, crises of the 21st century, political ideas, modern political theory, global dilemmas, international relations, and research methods, emphasizing the understanding and evaluation of social evidence. Year two expands theoretical and practical understanding of democracy, international politics, and a wide range of optional modules, allowing students to explore topics such as American political thought, anarchism, children’s rights, Chinese politics, social change, justice, ethics, governance, migration, elections, and data analysis. Students develop critical thinking and research skills while engaging with contemporary debates on gender, power, technology, and public policy. In the final year, students focus on independent research through an 8,000-word dissertation while choosing from advanced modules that deepen knowledge of democracy, political theory, ethics, international relations, public opinion, social justice, and governance. The program equips students with analytical, methodological, and practical skills, enabling them to understand complex political phenomena, assess global issues, and contribute thoughtfully to debates in politics, policy, and international affairs.