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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of PortsmouthThe BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics at the University of Portsmouth gives you a real-world understanding of politics, both at home and abroad. You’ll explore topics like migration, populism, and international diplomacy, while developing the skills to analyse, debate, and make an impact in the world around you.
Curriculum Structure
Foundation Year (Year 0)
Your foundation year sets you up for success in higher education. You’ll build essential academic skills through modules like Critical Thinking and Professional Identity and Global Development, helping you grow your research, writing, and analytical abilities so you’re ready for degree-level study.
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the basics of politics and international relations. Modules like Key Themes in International Relations, Political Thought, and Bending the Truth a Little? Research Methods in Politics, International Relations and Development give you the foundation to think critically about global issues and how the world works.
Year 2
The second year dives deeper into specific areas of politics. You’ll study European Politics, Global Crises: Climate, Conflict and Insecurity, and US Politics, gaining insights into both regional and global political dynamics while sharpening your research and analytical skills.
Year 3
In your final year, you get to focus on what interests you most and show off what you’ve learned. Modules like Major Project, Global Political Economy, and Race, Rights and Development: Global Perspectives on Inequality and Social Justice let you explore your passions, conduct independent research, and produce a major project that reflects your expertise.
Focus Areas
International Relations, Political Theory, Global Crises, European Politics, US Politics, Global Political Economy, Social Justice, Research Methods
Learning Outcomes
Critical Analysis, Research Skills, Political Awareness, Global Perspective, Independent Thinking, Effective Communication
Professional Alignment
This program prepares you for careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, and policy roles, giving you the skills employers value in international relations and politics.
Reputation
The University of Portsmouth is highly regarded for its focus on employability, helping graduates secure rewarding careers in politics, diplomacy, and global affairs.
At Portsmouth, learning isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience that brings politics and international relations to life. From real-world case studies to collaborative projects, the program gives you practical skills in research, analysis, and communication, while helping you understand how global issues work in practice. You’ll also have access to excellent facilities, expert staff, and digital tools that support your learning every step of the way:
Centre for European and International Studies Research (CEISR): Work with cutting-edge research and gain insights into global and regional political dynamics.
School of Area Studies, Sociology, History, Politics & Literature: Collaborate with peers and academics across disciplines, tackling real-world political and social issues.
Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle): Use this online platform to access course materials, submit assignments, and join discussions anytime, anywhere.
University Library: Access a wide range of books, journals, and digital resources to support your research and projects.
Open Experience Days & Seminars: Take part in interactive events that provide practical insights into politics, international relations, and student life.
International Collaboration Opportunities: Engage with global institutions and experts through workshops, group projects, and guest lectures.
All these opportunities help you build practical skills, work in teams, and experience politics and international relations first-hand, preparing you for careers in government, NGOs, or international organizations.
Graduates from the BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics at Portsmouth leave ready to make their mark in a variety of careers. With a strong mix of practical skills and theoretical knowledge, you’ll be prepared for roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, and more. Typical career paths include:
Policy Analyst – researching and analysing information to help shape public policy.
Diplomatic Service Officer – representing your country and managing international relationships.
NGO Project Manager – coordinating projects and initiatives to make a real difference globally.
Political Consultant – advising campaigns or organizations on strategy and communication.
To help you succeed, the University of Portsmouth provides excellent support and opportunities:
Careers and Employment Service – personalised advice, CV workshops, interview prep, and networking support.
Placement Year Opportunities – gain hands-on experience with a year-long sandwich placement to boost employability.
The Portsmouth Award – recognise your engagement in extra-curricular activities that enhance skills and employability.
Industry Partnerships – connections with organizations like the United Nations, Amnesty International, and War Child, providing networking and career opportunities.
Graduate Employment – around 9 out of 10 graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, giving confidence in your career prospects.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BA, you can continue your studies with postgraduate options such as an MA in International Relations, an MRes in Humanities and Social Sciences, or specialised postgraduate diplomas in areas like international development, security studies, or diplomacy. These paths allow you to deepen your knowledge, specialise in areas that interest you, and prepare for senior roles or even research careers.
A-level - 32 tariff points at A levelIB - 24 points from the IB Diploma, with 444 at Higher Level.2 GCSEs at Grade E/2 or above to include English and Maths.IELTS - 5.5 with no component score below 5.5.TOEFL(iBT) - 72 with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing.India – Completion of All India or State Board SSC (X) with average 50% (X and/or XI)USA – High School Diploma with a minimum GPA of 2.0, or completion of Year 11 with a score of 600/1600 in the SAT Reasoning (SATR).Foundation Year Fee of UK students £5,760Policy AnalystDiplomatic OfficerCivil ServantForeign Affairs AdvisorNGO Project ManagerInternational Development OfficerHuman Rights AdvocatePolitical ResearcherLobbyistMedia and Communications SpecialistIntelligence AnalystPolitical ConsultantThink Tank Researcherand Government Relations Officer
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