COURSE CURRICULUM

The Politics and International Relations BA provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, international relations, and global development, equipping students to analyse political processes at local, national, and global levels. In Year 1, students gain a foundation in key concepts, structures, and theories of politics and international relations, studying subjects such as British politics, global governance, democracy, political ideas, migration, and dilemmas of international development. This year establishes critical thinking and analytical skills while situating politics in a wider social and international context. Year 2 builds on this foundation by deepening theoretical knowledge and exploring governance, society, and international affairs in more detail. Students engage with modules covering geopolitics, global security, international political economy, democracy and development in Asia and Africa, Middle East politics, and power structures, while also developing practical research skills through political research and internships. In Year 3, students tailor their degree towards an academic or professional pathway, completing either a dissertation or a research report. The final year focuses on advanced topics including postcolonial politics, ethics and morality in international relations, contested sovereignty, climate change, humanitarian intervention, foreign policy, digital politics, and social movements. Throughout the course, students develop critical, analytical, and practical skills, preparing them for careers in public policy, international organisations, diplomacy, research, or further study in political and global affairs.