International Relations and Politics (with Professional Placement Year)

- Combine theoretical study with practical application to affect change and make a difference.

- Discover how the world works by connecting with partner organisations that link local and global issues.

- Build the practical skills required to work in the field by applying knowledge and research methods to contemporary challenges.

Does democracy limit the threat of war? Can capitalism coexist with the climate crisis? What does globalisation mean in an era of growing fragmentation? Studying International Relations and Politics gives you the tools to tackle the biggest challenges faced by the world today. You’ll dig beneath the surface of the fundamental questions of our time and work together to define the kinds of solutions that could positively impact future generations.

International Relations looks beyond formal interactions between states and governments. You’ll explore how local and global structures interact, and the ways in which "international relations" are shaped as much through everyday actions as by formal institutions of government. This could relate to the work of NGOs and the impact of "soft diplomacy", or to the communities of artists and activists that contribute to campaigns against global inequalities and injustice.

Why choose this combination?
Combining International Relations with Politics will deepen your understanding of political concepts and theories and expand your grasp of global events and international affairs.

The study of Politics complements the global focus of International Relations by providing foundational, specialised subject knowledge and research methods that you’ll apply to contemporary challenges, issues and debates. Our progressive Politics programme has been designed to develop your practical, analytical and communication skills, which are essential to and valued by a diverse range of careers and employers.

More about the Professional Placement Year
A Professional Placement Year (PPY), traditionally known as a sandwich year, is where you undertake a period of work with an external organisation for between 9-13 months. The placement occurs between your second and final years of undergraduate study. You can engage in multiple placements to make up the total time and are required to source the placement(s) yourself, with support from the Careers team.