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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Aberystwyth UniversityIf you’re curious about how the world works and want to understand global politics up close, this program is perfect for you. It combines the study of political systems, international relations, and real-world issues, all while giving you the chance to spend a year studying abroad and experiencing politics in an international context.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Political Analysis
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the basics of politics and international relations. Modules like Introduction to International Politics and Political Analysis introduce key concepts and ways to think critically about global issues. You’ll also build essential skills like research and academic writing, setting you up for more in-depth studies later on.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding and Specialization
The second year lets you explore politics more deeply. With modules such as International Political Economy and Comparative Politics, you can start to focus on areas that interest you most while honing your independent research skills. This year really helps you see how theory meets real-world political challenges.
Year 3: Study Abroad Experience
This is the year to broaden your horizons! You’ll study at a partner university abroad—whether in Europe, North America, Asia, or Australia. Experiencing politics in another country will give you new perspectives, improve your cross-cultural understanding, and add a truly global dimension to your degree.
Year 4: Advanced Analysis and Dissertation
Your final year is all about applying what you’ve learned. You’ll complete a dissertation, investigating a topic you’re passionate about, and take advanced modules like Global Security and International Relations Theory. By the end of this year, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to step confidently into careers in international relations, policy, or related fields.
Focus Areas
Global Politics, International Institutions, Political Economy, Comparative Politics, Security Studies, International Development, Political Theory, Study Abroad Experience
Learning Outcomes
Critical Thinking, Analytical Skills, Research Proficiency, Cross-Cultural Understanding, Communication Skills, Policy Analysis, Global Perspective
Professional Alignment
This program prepares you for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, government, NGOs, and other roles where understanding global politics is key.
Reputation
Aberystwyth University is home to the world’s first Department of International Politics, established in 1919. It’s renowned for excellent teaching and research, giving students a supportive environment to thrive academically and professionally.
Studying Politics and International Relations at Aberystwyth isn’t just about reading books or sitting in lectures—it’s about diving into the real world of global politics. You’ll gain practical skills through hands-on experiences, research projects, group work, and even spending a year abroad. The university provides fantastic facilities, expert guidance, and plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world contexts:
Integrated Year Abroad – Spend a year at one of Aberystwyth’s partner universities across Europe, North America, Australia, or Asia. You’ll experience different political systems firsthand and see global issues from a new perspective.
Research Centres – Get involved with specialist centres like the Centre for Intelligence and International Security Studies (CIISS), where you can attend expert seminars, join research projects, and collaborate with academics at the forefront of international politics.
Modern Facilities – Learn in contemporary teaching spaces equipped with lecture capture technology, giving you flexibility to review lessons anytime. The Hugh Owen Library is packed with both print and digital resources, perfect for solo research or group work.
Collaborative Projects – Many modules involve team-based projects and presentations, helping you build essential skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Field Trips and Seminars – Engage with politics outside the classroom through trips and specialist seminars that show how political theories and international relations work in practice.
Graduates from the BA Politics and International Relations program at Aberystwyth University are well-prepared to step straight into a wide range of careers. Many go on to roles in diplomacy, journalism, the civil service, or international organizations like the UN, with strong employability rates—around 85% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. The average salary for alumni five years after graduation is about £26,000, with many earning between £21,000 and £32,000, reflecting the strong value of this degree.
Here’s how Aberystwyth supports your career journey:
Employability Services: The university’s dedicated Employability Strategy offers tailored guidance, workshops, and employer connections to help you secure placements and graduate roles.
Industry Partnerships: Engage in international collaborations, such as the double degree partnership with Thammasat University in Thailand, offering global exposure and networking opportunities.
Graduate Outcomes: Nearly all Aberystwyth graduates are either in work or further study within six months of finishing their degree, giving you confidence in your future career prospects.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value: The degree is widely recognized, giving you credibility with employers and access to professional networks.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA, there are plenty of ways to continue your studies:
Postgraduate Degrees: Pursue a Master’s in International Relations, Political Science, or Public Policy at Aberystwyth or other top institutions.
Dual Degree Opportunities: Take advantage of programs like the partnership with Thammasat University for international experience and enhanced qualifications.
Research & PhD Pathways: Dive into advanced research in areas such as global governance, security studies, or political theory, opening doors to academic or policy-focused careers.
These pathways let you specialize further, gain international exposure, and boost your career prospects in the global political arena.
A-level - CCC-BBB Equivalent to 96 - 120 UCAS Tariff Points.GCSE (minimum grade C/4): English or WelshIELTS - 6.5 with minimum 5.5 in each component TOEFL iBT - 93 with minimum component scores: Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17 India – Standard XII: 75% in Year XII from a recognized central or state board.India – English Requirement: 70–80% in Class XII English (Standard) from a recognized board (CBSE, CISCE, excluding Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh), obtained within 7.5 years of the course start date.USA – Minimum GPA 3.0–3.2 plus either 2 AP tests (score 3+), 2 Honors classes (B grades), or 2 College-level classes (B grades).DiplomatPolicy AdvisorCivil ServantIntelligence AnalystInternational Development OfficerPolitical JournalistNGO Project ManagerResearcherAcademic/University LecturerCampaign ManagerPublic Affairs ConsultantSecurity and Risk Analyst
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