BA Politics and International Relations and Education

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations and Education at the University of Strathclyde combines the study of political systems, global issues, and international relations with insights into educational theory and practice. It is ideal for students interested in understanding the political, social, and cultural forces that shape education and society, preparing them for careers in teaching, policy, or international contexts.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students explore foundational topics in Politics and International Relations, including political institutions, global governance, and the principles of international relations. Education modules introduce childhood development, social and cultural influences on learning, and offer practical exposure through early placement in educational settings. This combination allows students to link political and educational concepts to real-world contexts from the start.

Year 2

Year two deepens knowledge with modules such as Comparative Politics, Global Security, and Political Theory, while Education studies focus on learning across the lifespan, inclusion, and diversity in schools. Students may also choose optional modules that allow them to specialise in areas such as policy, international development, or pedagogy, integrating their political understanding with educational practice.

Year 3

In the third year, students explore advanced topics such as International Political Economy, Conflict and Diplomacy, and International Human Rights, applying critical analysis to real-world global challenges. Education modules focus on teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and research methods, with opportunities for placements or project work to apply their knowledge in practical educational contexts.

Year 4

The final year allows students to complete a dissertation in either Politics and International Relations or Education, conducting independent research on a topic of their choice. Advanced modules cover subjects such as Global Governance and Policy, Education Policy and Leadership, or Comparative International Education, equipping students with the skills needed for professional practice or postgraduate study.

Focus Areas:

Political theory, international relations, global governance, conflict resolution, education policy, teaching and learning, research skills, social and cultural analysis.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will critically analyse political systems and global issues, understand the social and cultural influences on education, apply research methods in both political and educational contexts, and communicate effectively in professional and academic settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

This degree prepares students for postgraduate education pathways such as teacher training (PGDE) and careers in education, public policy, international organisations, diplomacy, or related fields.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

Graduates benefit from Strathclyde’s reputation in both Politics and Education, gaining strong employability prospects in teaching, policy, international development, and research, with skills valued for analysis, communication, and leadership.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the BA (Hons) Education & Politics and International Relations programme benefit from a rich combination of classroom learning, real-world placements, research, and global perspectives. The programme ensures students apply theories in practice, gain exposure to children and communities, and engage with global political issues through seminars, simulations, and optional study abroad.

Experiential learning includes:

Early-year placements with children (age 0–14) — students undertake around 70 hours of placement, gaining direct experience in educational settings and applying learning theory.
Community and alternative placement options — students may work in a variety of settings beyond mainstream classrooms, offering a broader perspective on education practice.
Access to dedicated education resources — the Education Resources Centre provides specialised materials and support for education studies.
Interactive teaching and research work in Politics & International Relations — seminars, small-group discussions, tutorials, and research-methods courses develop analytical, writing, and research skills relevant to governance, policy, and global affairs.
Opportunities for international exposure — students may participate in study-abroad or exchange programmes, gaining global perspective in international relations.
Major project / honours dissertation and optional work placements — the degree culminates in a dissertation in the political or education strand, alongside optional placements with institutions, translating academic learning into practical experience.

What the programme covers

Politics & International Relations component

Year 1 introduces key concepts and processes of politics, including how states work, institutions, governance, and global political frameworks.
Year 2 covers global politics, international relations theory, political philosophy, and research design, equipping students to analyse political systems and craft independent research.
Year 3 offers specialised themes such as elections, parties, public opinion, public policy, or international security, with optional modules like comparative politics, war and terrorism, and quantitative methods. Study-abroad opportunities are available.
Fourth-year honours students complete a substantial dissertation and choose from specialised seminars or electives, such as international development, security, governance, democracy, data science for policy, and other advanced topics.

Education component

Year 1 explores foundational questions about education, learning, and the influence of social, cultural, and community factors, alongside placements with children.
Year 2 examines learning across the lifespan, education beyond the classroom, and optional education-focused modules.
Year 3 focuses on adult education, community-based placements, and development of educational research skills.
Fourth-year students select modules on policy, social justice, or education representation, alongside independent research through dissertations and projects.
Learning and assessment include workshops, seminars, placements, and guest lectures, reflecting real-world issues in education such as inclusion, social justice, and professional development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations and Education develop expertise in political systems, global affairs, and educational practice, preparing them for careers in teaching, public policy, international organisations, or civic engagement roles. Many also continue to postgraduate study to specialise in education, politics, or international relations:

University services that support employment: Strathclyde’s Careers Service provides placements, internships, and school-based teaching experiences via the Faculty’s Student Placement System. Students can access mentoring, career workshops, and study-abroad programmes to gain international exposure.
Employment stats & salary figures: Graduate Outcomes reporting highlights strong employability, with early-career median salaries typically around £22,500–£27,000, depending on sector and role.
University–industry connections: Partnerships with local and international schools, governmental organisations, NGOs, and think tanks provide students with practical experience and networking opportunities. Collaborations with institutions like the Scottish Government and international policy organisations support career readiness.
Long-term accreditation value: Graduates aiming to teach can progress to the PGDE, granting qualified teacher status. Knowledge of politics and international relations also strengthens career prospects in public policy, civic education, and research.
Graduation outcomes (typical roles): Typical roles include Secondary or Primary Teacher (after PGDE/induction), Policy Analyst, International Education Officer, Civic Engagement Coordinator, and Research Assistant in political or educational organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations and Education, students may pursue the PGDE for professional teaching qualification, taught Masters in Education, International Relations, or Public Policy, or research degrees (MRes/PhD) in Education, Politics, or International Studies — all aimed at enhancing professional expertise and academic development.