International Relations BA

If you’re thinking about studying International Relations at King’s College London, one of the best parts is how much of it goes beyond textbooks. You won’t just sit in lectures memorising theories — you’ll actually do international relations. From the first year, you’re learning how to research, debate, and write like a professional in the field. Because the course is run from King’s famous Department of War Studies, you’ll also be right in the middle of a community that’s constantly discussing the latest global issues. And being in London? That means you’re studying international politics while surrounded by embassies, NGOs, think tanks and government organisations — the perfect “living laboratory.”

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Interactive classes – Small group seminars where you debate topics like conflict, diplomacy, or security policy. It’s not just listening; you’ll be challenged to develop and defend your own arguments.

• Research methods training – In your second year you’ll actually learn the nuts and bolts of how to gather data, analyse it (both qualitatively and quantitatively), and apply it to real-world case studies.

• Dissertation project – In your final year, you design and carry out your own research on a topic you care about, with support from an academic supervisor. It’s a major piece of work you can show employers or use as a stepping stone into postgraduate study.

• Study abroad options – There’s the chance to spend part of your degree at a partner university overseas, giving you international experience that fits perfectly with the subject.

• Research centres – You can connect with hubs like the Centre for Defence Studies or the Centre for Science & Security Studies, which often host talks by diplomats, journalists, and security experts.

• Libraries and study spaces – The Maughan Library (your main base on Strand Campus) has an incredible collection for politics, history, and international relations. Plus, there are quiet zones, group study rooms, and even 24/7 access during exam periods.

• King’s Careers support – Alongside your studies, you can take part in internships, work placements, or even virtual projects with employers, so you’re building your CV as you learn.

You’ll also benefit from guest speakers and special events in London — sometimes your classroom is only a few tube stops away from the real-world organisations shaping the policies you’re studying.

A degree in International Relations at King’s College London can open doors to exciting global careers. Whether you're passionate about diplomacy, development, global policy, or working for international organisations, this programme gives you the knowledge, connections, and credibility to get there. Graduates typically go into roles like:

• Policy Analyst

• Foreign Affairs or Diplomatic Officer

• Human Rights Lawyer

• External Relations Associate (e.g. with the UN or NGOs)

Here’s how King’s sets you up for success:

• Career support that’s built around you
  From day one, you’ll have access to King’s Careers & Employability, where you can get tailored advice, join skill-building workshops, and connect with employers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. There are also internships, employer events, and even one-on-one coaching sessions.

• Strong outcomes after graduation
  Around 89% of King’s graduates are working or studying within 15 months of finishing their course. For International Relations, that includes roles in government, NGOs, global think tanks and even the United Nations. The average salary for politics-related graduates from King’s is around £32,000, 15 months after graduating.

• You’ll study in the heart of London
  Being based in central London means you’re right on the doorstep of embassies, international organisations, global media, and political institutions — plus, King’s has active links with places like the UN, NATO, and leading NGOs.

• You’re learning from the best
  The course is run through departments like War Studies and European & International Studies, where many lecturers are actively involved in policy, security, and humanitarian work around the world. You're not just learning about international relations — you're learning it from people who live it.

• A degree with long-term value
  King’s recently received a Gold rating for graduate outcomes in the national Teaching Excellence Framework — meaning your degree is highly respected in the job market, both in the UK and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:

If you’re thinking beyond the BA, this course is an excellent foundation for postgraduate study. Many students go on to pursue:

• Master’s degrees in areas like International Relations, International Development, Human Rights, Conflict Resolution, or International Law

• PhD or MPhil research, especially if you're interested in becoming a specialist, academic, or policy advisor

• Or even professional training — for example, if you’re interested in working in human rights law or international diplomacy, you could go on to law school or a specialist policy programme