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3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Loughborough UniversityThe BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at Loughborough University gives you a clear window into how politics works at home and across the globe. It’s perfect for curious minds who want to understand political systems, global issues, and the ideas that shape our world.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundations of Political Analysis
In your first year, you’ll build a solid grounding in politics and international relations. Modules like Academic Foundations in International Relations, Politics and History and The Contemporary World Arena introduce key concepts, research skills, and global political dynamics. Power, Politics & Ideology in Modern Europe explores European political structures and ideologies, giving you a strong base for future study.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding and Research Skills
The second year takes you further into political theory and research. Through modules such as International Political Theory and Theories and Methods in Political Research, you’ll develop critical thinking and analytical skills, learning to apply theory to real-world political issues. This year is about understanding complexity and thinking like a political researcher.
Final Year: Specialization and Independent Study
In your final year, you can focus on areas that truly interest you. Modules like The Making and Unmaking of the World Order and Power, Politics & Ideology in Modern Europe allow deeper exploration of global politics and history. The year culminates with your dissertation, where you design and carry out your own research project, showing off all the skills you’ve developed.
Focus Areas: Political Theory, International Relations, European Politics, Global Governance, Research Methodology
Learning Outcomes: Critical Analysis, Independent Research, Understanding of Political Systems, Global Awareness, Effective Communication
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program follows national academic standards set by the Quality Assurance Agency for Politics and International Relations.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Loughborough University is well-known in the UK for politics and international relations, and this program equips graduates with skills that open doors in government, NGOs, international organisations, media, and beyond.
At Loughborough, studying Politics and International Relations isn’t just about lectures and reading—it’s about getting hands-on experience that brings your learning to life. You’ll have the chance to work on real-world projects, go on field trips, and even take part in placements that give a genuine taste of political and international work. The program helps you build practical skills like research, communication, and critical thinking, while giving you access to excellent facilities and support throughout your studies:
Haslegrave Computer Lab – A dedicated space with open-access computers for research, coursework, and self-study.
Seminar Rooms & Study Spaces – Modern, collaborative areas for group work or focused independent study.
Library Resources – Extensive print and digital collections to help you tackle any research project.
Placements & Internships – Opportunities to gain experience with organizations like IBM, Microsoft, IUCN, or Liverpool FC, applying your knowledge in professional settings.
Study Abroad Programs – Exchange opportunities with partner universities in countries such as Australia, Japan, Singapore, and the USA to expand your global perspective.
Field Trips & Site Visits – Visits to places like the Imperial War Museum North, giving first-hand insights into political and historical contexts.
Talent Match Internship Program – Short-term internships designed to boost your employability and practical skills.
These experiences make your degree much more than just theory—they prepare you to step straight into a career in politics, international organizations, or research.
Graduates from Loughborough’s Politics and International Relations program leave with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make an impact in the real world. Many go on to careers as policy advisors, political analysts, communications officers, or researchers, with starting salaries averaging around £26,000. The degree not only opens doors to exciting roles but also gives you the practical and analytical skills employers value:
Graduate Outcomes – Around 86% of 2022 graduates are in graduate-level work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Career Support – Loughborough’s Careers Network offers tailored guidance, workshops, networking events, and one-to-one mentoring to help you find the right opportunities.
Industry Connections – Strong partnerships with organizations provide internships and placements that give real-world experience while you study.
Accreditation Value – The degree is aligned with national academic standards, ensuring your qualification has lasting recognition and credibility.
Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, Loughborough provides pathways into postgraduate programs like the MSc Public Policy or MSc Diplomacy, International Politics, and Trade. These courses let you specialise further and build expertise for advanced careers in politics, international organisations, or research.
IB - 34 points overall, including 6, 5, 5 in Higher Level (HL) subjects.GCSE - GCSE English Language grade 4/CExtended Project Qualification - Recognised for developing research and critical thinking skills; not usually part of offer conditions but may strengthen an application when final results are received.IELTS - Overall score of 6.5 with not less than 6.0 in each testTOEFL - Overall score of 92 with at least 22 in each section (iBT or Special Home Edition)India: Standard XII qualifications – for CBSE, ISCE, or West Bengal boards, 78%–88% average from the best 4 subjects; for other state boards, 83%–93% average from the best 4 subjects.India – English Requirement: CBSE or ISCE (Class XII) with 75%, and Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal State Boards with 80%.Alternative English Requirement - Students from Gujarat, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Telangana State Boards must provide an alternative English language qualification.USA - Minimum GPA of 3.2/4.0 in High School, with AP scores of 5, 4, 4 (equivalent to AAB at A Level) or equivalent IB Higher Level/College/Honors classes.USA - Must have studied at least 4 years at a USA High School; SAT 610 (Evidence-Based Reading/Writing) or pre-2016 SAT 550 in Critical Reading and Writing; ACT 27 composite with minimum 26 in English and Reading.Applicants are usually selected based on their UCAS application, but in exceptional cases, an interview may be required.Placement year available and opportunity to study abroad.Placement Year Fee: Approximately 20% of the full-time tuition fee for both UK and international applicants.Students can take credit-bearing language modules in French, German, Spanish, or Mandarin to enhance communication, cultural skills, and add an international dimension to their degree.policy advisorpolitical analystcommunications officerresearcherdiplomatpublic affairs consultantinternational relations officercampaign managergovernment officerthink tank analystjournalistNGO project coordinatorintelligence analystand academic researcher
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