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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of PortsmouthThe BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics at the University of Portsmouth is an engaging program that explores how politics shapes our world, both locally and globally. It’s perfect for students who are curious about international affairs, political systems, and global challenges, offering a mix of theory, practical insight, and real-world experience.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
Your first year builds a solid foundation in politics and international relations. Through 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 to understand how political systems work, develop analytical skills, and learn how to research and interpret complex global issues.
Year 2:
In the second year, you dive deeper into more specialized areas. European Politics introduces the workings of the European Union, while Global Development explores international aid, development organizations, and how nations collaborate to tackle global problems. Continuing Political Thought helps you connect theory to real-world politics, sharpening your critical thinking along the way.
Year 3 (Placement Year):
The optional placement year gives you hands-on experience in the world of politics, international organizations, or NGOs. This is your chance to apply what you’ve learned in a professional setting, gain valuable work experience, and build a network that can help launch your career.
Year 4:
Your final year is about advanced learning and independent research. Modules like Global Political Economy, Ideology and Politics, and Transitional Justice and Human Rights challenge you to think critically about complex international issues. The Independent Project gives you the freedom to explore a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your skills and knowledge to future employers or postgraduate programs.
Focus Areas:
Global migration, populist politics, international relations theory, European Union institutions, global development, political ideologies, transitional justice, human rights
Learning Outcomes:
Develop critical analysis of political systems, understand global issues, conduct research effectively, apply political theory to real-world scenarios, and communicate insights clearly and confidently
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
While not formally accredited, the program’s strong practical focus, including the placement year, equips students with skills valued by employers in government, international organizations, NGOs, and more.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Portsmouth is well-regarded for employability, with students benefiting from real-world placements and a supportive career services team to help kickstart their professional journey.
At the University of Portsmouth, the BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics program goes beyond textbooks, giving you plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings. From placements to research projects, you’ll develop practical skills that employers really value, while benefiting from modern facilities and dedicated support. The program is designed so that you not only understand global politics but can also actively engage with it through hands-on experiences and professional guidance:
Placement Year: Between your second and final year, you can take an optional 9–12 month placement, gaining hands-on experience in government, NGOs, international organizations, or other relevant sectors. This is your chance to apply your knowledge and build a professional network.
Placement and Internship Centre: Established to help students find and make the most of placement opportunities, offering guidance, workshops, and resources to boost your employability.
Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle): Access all your course materials, discussion forums, and online resources anytime, supporting both face-to-face and online learning.
Research Opportunities: Get involved with the Politics and International Relations Research Area, exploring topics like global governance, security, and civil society, and gain practical experience in academic research.
Open Experience Days: Explore the campus, meet lecturers and current students, and get a real sense of what studying at Portsmouth is like.
Graduates from Portsmouth’s BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics program leave university ready to make an impact in a wide range of careers. The combination of academic learning, research skills, and practical experience—including an optional placement year—means you’ll be prepared for real-world challenges and equipped with skills that employers value. Whether you’re drawn to policy, public affairs, or international development, this degree opens doors to exciting opportunities:
Career Opportunities:
Graduates often step into roles such as:
Political Researcher – Conducting research to inform policy decisions and strategies.
Public Affairs Consultant – Advising organizations on communications and public relations.
Policy Advisor – Offering guidance to government bodies or think tanks on developing effective policies.
NGO Officer – Working with non-governmental organizations to implement programs and create social impact.
These outcomes are supported by the university’s dedicated employability services:
Placement Year Opportunities: Gain 9–12 months of real-world experience in government, NGOs, or international organizations, helping you build professional networks and practical skills.
Placement and Internship Centre: Offers guidance, workshops, and resources to help students secure the best opportunities.
Career Development Workshops: Learn essential skills such as CV writing, interview techniques, and job-hunting strategies.
Networking Events: Connect with alumni and industry professionals for mentorship and career advice.
The results speak for themselves: according to the HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22, 9 out of 10 Portsmouth graduates are in work or further study after graduation, highlighting the strong employability focus of the university.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could continue your studies to deepen your expertise and boost your career prospects:
MA in International Relations: Explore global politics, civil society, and security, ideal for careers in development, politics, civil service, or communications.
MRes in Humanities and Social Sciences: Focus on advanced research projects, perfect for those considering a PhD or wanting to enhance career opportunities in research-intensive roles.
A-level - CCC- BBC Equivalent to 96-112 points to include a minimum of 2 A levelsIB - 24 points from the IB Diploma, with 444 at Higher Level.2 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above to include English.IELTS - 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.TOEFL(iBT) - 79 with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing.India – 75% or above in the Class 12 (State Board) examinations, or 70% in the Class 12 Central Board (CBSE) examinations.USA – High School Diploma with a GPA of 3.0 or above, plus either AP scores of 3,3,3; ACT composite score of 25; or SAT Reasoning 1160 combined with three SAT Subject Tests at 580 each.Placement 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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