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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Aston University
Aston University’s BSc Politics with International Relations degree offers an exciting opportunity to explore global political systems and international affairs while developing practical analytical and research skills. This program is ideal for students who are passionate about understanding contemporary global challenges and aspire to make an impact in policy, diplomacy, or international organizations.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in both politics and international relations. Core modules like Introduction to Studying and Researching Politics, Introduction to the Concepts and Methods of International Relations, British Politics since 1990, Introduction to the European Union, The Making of the Modern World, and What’s Trending (Current Affairs in Politics and International Relations) introduce essential concepts, research methods, and contemporary issues, giving you a well-rounded start.
Year 2
The second year allows you to delve deeper into political theories and international relations. Modules such as Political Ideas, Security Studies, and Political Economy help you develop analytical skills and apply theory to real-world political scenarios, enhancing your critical thinking and understanding of global dynamics.
Placement Year (Optional)
The optional placement year gives you the chance to gain practical experience in a professional setting, whether through work, teaching, or studying abroad. This hands-on experience allows you to apply your academic knowledge, develop professional skills, and boost your employability.
Final Year
In your final year, you’ll undertake a dissertation on a topic of your choice, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research. Modules like Contemporary Political Issues and History of Political Thought let you specialize in areas that interest you most, preparing you for careers or postgraduate study by refining your research, analytical, and communication skills.
Focus Areas: Political Theory, International Relations, Security Studies, Political Economy, Contemporary Political Issues
Learning Outcomes: Critical Thinking, Research Skills, Analytical Abilities, Communication Skills, Independent Research
Professional Alignment: Public Policy, International Relations, Political Analysis, Historical Research
Reputation: Aston University is ranked 11th in the UK for International Relations (Guardian 2025) and is among the top 5% of global institutions (QS World University Rankings 2026).
At Aston University, the BSc (Hons) Politics with International Relations degree emphasizes applied learning, allowing students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Through innovative modules, research-informed teaching, and authentic assessments, students engage in experiences that enhance their understanding of global political dynamics.
The program offers various opportunities to gain practical skills and insights:
EuroSim Module: An award-winning simulation that immerses students in real-life political scenarios, fostering negotiation, diplomacy, and decision-making skills.
Placement Year: An optional component that provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a professional setting, enhancing employability and applying academic knowledge in real-world contexts.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can opt to study abroad, gaining international perspectives and understanding of global political systems.
Research Projects: Engagement in research projects that allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest within politics and international relations.
Access to Adobe Creative Campus: As part of Aston's commitment to providing top-notch resources, students have access to software licenses including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry, to enhance their digital and analytical skills.
These experiential learning opportunities are designed to equip students with the practical skills and insights needed to navigate and influence the complex world of politics and international relations.
Graduating from Aston University with a BSc in Politics with International Relations sets you up for a career where you can truly make a difference in the world. With strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience, alumni move into meaningful roles that influence policy, international relations, and global development. Typical career paths include:
Policy Analyst – shaping decisions that affect society and governments
Diplomatic Service Officer – representing national interests abroad
International Development Consultant – tackling global challenges with strategic solutions
Political Risk Analyst – helping organizations navigate complex political landscapes
Aston provides excellent support to help you land these roles:
Careers and Placements Team – recognized as the UK’s top placements service, offering tailored guidance, career coaching, and exclusive job opportunities.
Industry Partnerships – over 250 global collaborations enable real-world projects, exchange programs, and internships.
Optional Placement Year – gain hands-on experience in work, teaching, or study abroad to strengthen your CV.
Employability-Focused Curriculum – participate in EuroSim and Model UN to build negotiation, diplomacy, and leadership skills
Accreditation and Reputation – Aston holds a Gold TEF rating, ensuring high-quality education and credibility in the job market.
Graduate Outcomes – Aston graduates are among the highest paid in the UK, with a median salary of £33,200 five years after graduation.
Further Academic Progression:
Once you finish your degree, there are plenty of options to continue your studies and specialize further:
MSc International Relations – deepen your understanding of global politics
MSc Public Policy – focus on shaping effective policies
MSc International Development – tackle global social and economic challenges.
MSc Diplomacy and International Governance – prepare for high-level diplomatic or international organization roles
With this program, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re building the skills, experience, and network to launch a career that can have a real impact on the world.
A Levels BBC (standard offer)IB Requirement: 29 points overall (HL: 5,5,4) with SL Mathematics 4 and English Language 5.Indian Curriculum ICSE/CBSE 60%, State Boards & NIOS 70%.American Curriculum SAT Reasoning Test (with 3 AP tests: 630, 630, 580) or ACT 26; AP scores of 4, 4, 4.GPA 3.2IELTS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each individual component.TOEFL - Overall: 78 Reading: 12, Writing: 20, Listening: 11, Speaking: 17.During placement year £2,500Policy OfficerInternational Relations ConsultantDiplomatic Service OfficerPolitical AnalystPolitical Campaign ManagerPublic Affairs SpecialistHuman Rights OfficerGovernment AdvisorIntelligence AnalystNGO Project CoordinatorResearcher in Think TanksInternational Development OfficerMedia and Communications SpecialistLegislative Assistant
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