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3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of NottinghamThe BA Politics and International Relations at the University of Nottingham gives you a chance to explore how political systems work, how countries interact, and what shapes global events. It’s perfect for curious students who want to understand world affairs and make a real impact, blending theory with practical skills to prepare you for exciting careers in politics, international organizations, or beyond.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid grounding in political ideas and global politics. Core modules like Introduction to Political Theory and Problems in Global Politics help you understand both classic and contemporary concepts, while Understanding Global Politics introduces the key theories of international relations. Optional modules like British Constitution in Crisis and International Politics of the Asia-Pacific let you start exploring areas that interest you most.
Year 2:
Year two dives deeper into political analysis and international issues. Modules such as Analysing and Interpreting Political Data sharpen your research skills, British Party Politics explores the UK’s political scene, and Global Security looks at challenges facing the world today. You can also choose options like Social and Global Justice or Politics and Public Policy in China to expand your perspective.
Year 3:
The final year gives you the chance to specialize and pursue independent research. You’ll complete a Dissertation on a topic that excites you, while modules like Advanced Quantitative Methods for Social Science and China in Global Politics strengthen your analytical and research skills. Optional modules such as Secret Intelligence and International Security or The Politics of Human Rights let you tailor your learning to your career goals.
Focus Areas: Political Theory, International Relations, Global Security, Comparative Politics, Political Economy, Social Justice, Data Analysis
Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, analytical skills, research proficiency, understanding of global political systems, ability to analyze political data, awareness of global issues
Professional Alignment: This program prepares you for careers in public policy, international organizations, political consultancy, or academia. While there’s no specific professional accreditation, the skills and experience you gain are highly valued by employers worldwide.
Reputation: The University of Nottingham is known globally for its research excellence and international outlook. Graduates from this program have gone on to careers in government, NGOs, and global organizations.
At the University of Nottingham, the Politics and International Relations BA (Hons) is more than just lectures and essays — it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for the real world. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you learn in practical ways, whether through research projects, international experiences, or engaging with political debates. The university provides excellent resources and facilities to help you develop the skills employers value most.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:
Placements and Internships: Gain real-world insight by taking part in placements that connect you with political institutions, NGOs, and international organizations.
Study Abroad Options: Spend a semester or a full year abroad, experiencing politics and international relations from a global perspective.
Research Opportunities: Work on research projects that tackle current political issues, honing your analytical and critical thinking skills.
Student Societies: Join politics and international relations societies to debate, network, and develop leadership skills in a lively, student-driven environment.
These experiences are designed to help you not just understand politics, but actively engage with it, giving you a head start for careers in government, international organizations, consultancy, or further academic study.
A degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Nottingham sets you up for a wide range of exciting careers. Graduates often go on to roles such as parliamentary assistants, civil servants, policy researchers, and data analysts, working in government, international organizations, think tanks, or consultancy. The program equips you with strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills that make you highly attractive to employers in a rapidly changing world.
Here’s how Nottingham supports your career journey:
Careers and Employability Service: Receive personalized guidance on applications, access to a wide network of employers, and opportunities to attend career events tailored to politics and international relations students.
Graduate Outcomes: Around 85.7% of social sciences graduates secure graduate-level jobs or further study within 15 months, with an average starting salary of £29,197.
University–Industry Partnerships: Nottingham is consistently ranked among the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers, giving students a strong advantage when entering the workforce.
Professional Preparation: The skills and experiences gained through the program — from research projects to placements and societies — offer long-term value for careers in policy, diplomacy, and global affairs.
Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue studying, the University of Nottingham offers a range of postgraduate programs. For example, the MA in International Relations is ideal for students aiming to specialize further and pursue careers with a global impact. You could also explore foundation or preparatory programs that strengthen your expertise before stepping into advanced study.
Whether you choose to jump straight into a career or continue your academic journey, a Politics and International Relations degree from Nottingham gives you the knowledge, experience, and support to make it happen.
IB - 32 overall or 665 in 3 HL subjectsRequired subjects - GCSE English grade 4 (C) or above. Excluded subjects - General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship StudiesIELTS - 6.5 Overall with no less than 6.0 in any elementTOEFL (iBT) - 90 overall (minimum 19 in Writing & Listening, 20 in Reading, 22 in Speaking)India - Higher Secondary (Class XII) average grades: CBSE/CISCE 87%(75% in English), Maharashtra 87%, West Bengal 77%, Other State Boards 92%USA – Combination of 3 AP, Honors, or Dual Enrollment classes with grades/scores between AP 5–4 or A+ – B+.USA - High School Diploma English – Year 11 grade C/2.0/70%; SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing 500+; ACT English 26+; SAT Subject Test English Literature 600+; AP English Literature or Language and Composition – Grade 3+Parliamentary AssistantCivil ServantPolicy AnalystDiplomatic Service OfficerInternational Relations OfficerPolitical ConsultantResearcher in Think TanksNGO Project ManagerData Analyst in Political/Policy ResearchPublic Affairs SpecialistHuman Rights OfficerIntelligence AnalystCampaign ManagerLobbyistInternational Development Advisor
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