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5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of PortsmouthThe BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics at the University of Portsmouth is designed for students who are curious about how the world works and want to make a difference. You’ll explore global politics, international relations, and the forces that shape societies, gaining the skills to pursue a variety of exciting careers.
Curriculum Structure
Foundation Year (Year 0)
Your foundation year at the International College Portsmouth (ICP) gives you a solid start, especially if you’re new to the UK education system. You’ll cover modules like Introduction to Politics and International Relations, Introduction to Urban Studies, and Introduction to Sustainability and the Environment. This year focuses on building your academic skills, critical thinking, and understanding of global issues, so you’re fully prepared for the main degree.
Year 1 – Getting Started
In the first year, you’ll dive into the essentials with modules like Key Themes in International Relations, Political Thought, and Bending the Truth a Little? Research Methods in Politics, International Relations and Development. You’ll start thinking like a political analyst, learning how to evaluate ideas, understand power, and conduct research.
Year 2 – Broadening Your Knowledge
Year two lets you explore the bigger picture with modules like Global Development, European Politics, and British Political Leadership. You’ll study how countries interact, how leadership shapes politics, and how global development challenges affect societies—giving you a deeper understanding of the forces that shape the world.
Year 3 – Hands-On Experience
This year gives you the chance to apply your knowledge in the real world through a work placement. Modules such as Global Crises: Climate, Conflict and Insecurity, US Politics, and Global Political Economy let you focus on areas you’re passionate about, while gaining practical skills that employers love.
Year 4 – Specialising and Researching
Your final year is all about independence and expertise. You’ll take modules like Ideology and Politics, Transitional Justice and Human Rights, and complete a Major Project. This is your chance to research a topic you care about, sharpen your analytical skills, and show you’re ready to step into a professional career.
Focus Areas
Global Development, European Politics, US Politics, Global Political Economy, Human Rights, Climate and Security, Political Leadership, Ideology, Transitional Justice
Learning Outcomes
Critical Analysis, Research Skills, Understanding Global Issues, Policy Evaluation, Communication, Independent Research, Professional Readiness
Professional Alignment
This degree is designed to prepare you for a wide range of careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, and the private sector, giving you skills that are highly valued worldwide.
Reputation
The University of Portsmouth is recognized for strong employability outcomes and research quality. Graduates leave with practical skills, confidence, and a global perspective that makes them highly attractive to employers.
At the University of Portsmouth, this degree isn’t just about learning theory—you’ll get plenty of opportunities to put your knowledge into practice. From hands-on projects to real-world placements, the program is designed to help you develop the skills employers are looking for while exploring the complexities of global politics. You’ll also have access to excellent facilities, expert research groups, and support networks that make learning interactive and engaging.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience throughout your studies:
Work Placements: Spend time in political organizations, NGOs, or international institutions, gaining real-world experience and insights into professional life.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Experience different political systems and cultures first-hand, broadening your perspective and understanding of global issues.
Research Projects: Tackle real political questions through independent or group research, developing critical thinking, data analysis, and presentation skills.
Collaborative Group Work: Work on projects with your peers to solve complex problems—mirroring the teamwork needed in real political environments.
Specialized Facilities: Make full use of the university’s libraries, research centers, and online resources to support your studies and projects.
Engagement with Research Groups: Join active research groups like the Centre for European and International Studies Research and the Peace, Conflict and Security Research Group to get involved in current political research.
All these experiences are designed to make sure that by the time you graduate, you’re confident, employable, and ready to step into roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, or the private sector.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics program leave Portsmouth ready to step into a wide range of exciting careers. The combination of practical experience, global perspectives, and strong academic training means you’ll be equipped to make a real impact in the world of politics and international relations. Typical roles you could pursue include: diplomat, policy analyst, international development specialist, or political consultant.
To help you get there, the University of Portsmouth offers a range of support and opportunities:
Careers and Employment Services: Get expert advice on CVs, interviews, and job applications to boost your chances of landing your dream role.
Work Placements: Gain hands-on experience with organizations in politics, international relations, or NGOs—an excellent way to build your professional network.
Study Abroad Programs: Explore global political systems and cultures to broaden your perspective and understanding.
Industry Partnerships: Benefit from collaborations with organizations like the United Nations and various NGOs for insights, networking, and real-world experience.
Graduate Employment Rates: Around 90% of Portsmouth graduates are in work or further study, giving you confidence in your career prospects.
Salary Expectations: Graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, which grow as you gain experience and responsibility.
These opportunities are designed to make sure that when you graduate, you’re not only knowledgeable but also ready to succeed in your chosen career.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, there are many ways to continue your studies and specialize further:
MA in International Relations: Dive deeper into global political systems and sharpen your research skills.
PhD in Political Science or International Relations: Focus on specialized research and contribute new insights to the field.
Postgraduate Diplomas or Certificates: Concentrate on areas like international law, human rights, or security studies to open doors to specialist roles.
These options let you continue building expertise and open the door to careers in academia, high-level research, or senior policy advisory positions.
A-level - 32 tariff points at A levelIB - 32 UCAS tariff points to include a Higher Level subject.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 £5,760Placement year or study abroad year, tuition fees for UK students £1,430Policy 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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