International Relations BA (Hons) degree

At Loughborough, studying International Relations isn’t just about reading theories — it’s about living them. From day one, you’ll be encouraged to apply what you learn to real-world situations, develop practical skills, and explore how international politics works in practice. Whether you’re investigating global conflicts, debating foreign policy decisions, or researching emerging security threats, you’ll constantly be connecting classroom learning to the world beyond campus.

What makes the experience even more powerful is how many ways you can put your skills into action. You can spend a year working in industry, studying abroad, or even split the year between both. You’ll take part in group projects, policy simulations, and independent research, all while accessing world-class facilities that support your growth as a future global thinker.

Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience during your degree:

• Placement year or study abroad – Choose to spend a year working in government, NGOs, or global organisations, or study at a partner university overseas. You can even do both through a flexible 6+6 split.

• Internship opportunities – Access short-term placements and virtual global internships through initiatives like Talent Match, designed to boost your CV before you graduate.

• Year in Enterprise – Turn your ideas into reality by developing your own project or business with expert mentorship and university support.

• Interactive assessments – Go beyond essays with assessments like policy simulations, journalistic pieces, film analysis, and group projects that reflect the real work of political professionals.

• Cutting-edge learning spaces – Study in modern seminar rooms, computer labs, and the Pilkington Library, and benefit from research-led teaching informed by Loughborough’s expertise in security, conflict, political violence, and global governance.

• Research-driven environment – Engage with live research from day one, working alongside academics tackling global issues and contributing to discussions that shape public policy and diplomacy.

Graduating with a BA in International Relations from Loughborough sets you up for a career that’s truly global in scope. You’ll leave with the analytical thinking, research skills, and global awareness that employers in government, NGOs, and international organisations look for. Many of our graduates go on to work in exciting and impactful roles such as:

• Diplomatic Service Officer – representing national interests and working on foreign policy initiatives.

• Policy Analyst / Political Researcher – shaping policies for governments, think tanks, or NGOs.

• Intelligence & Security Consultant – analysing global threats and advising on strategic decisions.

• NGO or International Development Manager – leading humanitarian projects and global change initiatives.

And the best part? You’ll have plenty of support to get there:

• Careers Network: Loughborough’s award-winning Careers Network is with you every step of the way — from one-to-one career coaching and CV workshops to employer networking events and interview prep. Support doesn’t stop at graduation either — it’s available for up to five years after you finish your degree.

• Strong employment outcomes: Around 86.3% of Loughborough graduates are in highly skilled work or further study within 15 months of graduating, and Politics and International Relations graduates earn an average starting salary of £27,500.

• Industry connections: The School of Social Sciences and Humanities has close links with employers and offers opportunities for year-long placements in the UK or overseas. A dedicated Placement Officer will help you secure positions in government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions.

• Global reputation: Your degree carries significant long-term value thanks to Loughborough’s strong standing and respected research in global politics, security, and international relations.

 Further Academic Progression

If you’re keen to keep exploring the world of international politics, your degree opens the door to a range of postgraduate pathways. Many graduates go on to study Master’s degrees in International Relations, Security Studies, Global Governance, Public Policy, or Diplomacy. Others pursue MPhil or PhD research, or opt for professional postgraduate qualifications that deepen their expertise and boost their career prospects in international affairs.