International Relations BA (Hons)

At Queen Mary, studying International Relations isn’t just about reading theory — it’s about stepping into the real world of politics and diplomacy. From day one, you’ll be learning through debates, group projects, and interactive seminars, and as you progress, you’ll get opportunities to test your knowledge in real policy and community settings. The program is designed to give you practical experience that builds confidence, skills, and networks that last well beyond graduation.

Here’s how you’ll gain that hands-on edge:

• Parliamentary Internships – In your final year, you can take the Parliamentary Internship module, working two days a week at Westminster or in a constituency office. This is a chance to see how politics really works from the inside.

• Civil Society Placements – The Civil Society Internship module lets you work directly with NGOs, charities, or grassroots organisations in London, giving you real experience with activism, campaigning, and community change.

• Live Debates and Guest Talks – Through the Mile End Institute and the Centre for European Research, you’ll attend events where politicians, journalists, and policy-makers share their insights. These aren’t just lectures — they’re networking opportunities and windows into real policy debates.

• Small-Group Learning – Seminars and workshops go beyond note-taking. You’ll do group presentations, role-plays, and collaborative projects that help you sharpen communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

• Independent Dissertation – In your final year, you’ll carry out your own research project, choosing a topic you’re passionate about and producing original analysis with guidance from expert academics.

• Specialist Libraries and Online Resources – You’ll have access to the Mile End Library’s rich collection, plus cutting-edge digital databases to support your coursework and research.

A degree in International Relations from Queen Mary opens the door to exciting careers around the world. Graduates go on to roles in policy and government, diplomacy, media and journalism, non-governmental organisations, and global business — all fields where the ability to think critically and understand complex global issues is highly valued. You’ll leave with skills that employers actively seek: strong research ability, persuasive communication, and the confidence to analyse real-world challenges.

Here’s how Queen Mary helps you get there:

• Tailored career support – The Careers & Enterprise Service provides one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, mentoring schemes, and direct links to employers in London.

• Strong outcomes – 93% of Queen Mary graduates are in work or further study within six months, with the majority securing highly skilled roles.

• Salary growth – International Relations graduates report average starting salaries around £28,000 just 15 months after graduation, with opportunities to rise quickly as experience builds.

• Real connections – London is your classroom. Through the Mile End Institute and public events, you’ll meet MPs, policy advisors, journalists, and think-tank experts, gaining insight and contacts that can shape your future.

• Respected degree – As part of a Russell Group university, your qualification is internationally recognised and carries long-term value in competitive job markets.

Further Academic Progression

Many graduates choose to continue their journey with postgraduate study. You could stay at Queen Mary or join another top university to pursue a Master’s in International Relations, Global Governance, Security Studies, or Political Science. If research inspires you, an MPhil or PhD is a natural next step, leading to opportunities in think tanks, academia, or high-level policy analysis.