BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics with Foundation Year

At the University of Derby, the BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics with Foundation Year is designed to provide students with practical skills and real-world experiences that go beyond traditional classroom learning. The program emphasizes active engagement through various facilities, tools, and opportunities that enhance learning and prepare students for their future careers.

Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:

• Interactive Workshops and Seminars: Engage in discussions and activities that simulate real-world political scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Access to Specialized Software: Utilize industry-standard software for data analysis and research, equipping students with technical skills relevant to the field.

• Group Projects and Collaborative Learning: Work alongside peers on projects that mirror actual political challenges, promoting teamwork and communication skills.

• Internship Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience through internships with political organizations, NGOs, or governmental bodies, providing valuable insights into the professional world.

• Field Trips and Study Visits: Participate in visits to political institutions, museums, and heritage sites, offering practical exposure to the subjects studied.

• Research Facilities and Libraries: Access to extensive research materials and quiet study areas to support academic endeavors.

• Dedicated Learning Spaces: Utilize modern classrooms and seminar rooms designed to facilitate interactive learning and discussions.

• Student Support Services: Benefit from academic advising, career counseling, and other support services aimed at enhancing the student experience.

These opportunities are integrated into the curriculum to ensure that students not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also develop practical skills that are highly valued in the political and international relations sectors.

Graduating from this course opens the door to an exciting range of global and public-facing careers. You’ll leave with strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills — the kind that employers value everywhere. Many Derby graduates go on to work in government and diplomacy, international development, NGOs, or policy and research roles, turning their understanding of world affairs into real impact.

And Derby makes sure you’re career-ready from day one:

• Dedicated Careers Support – The University’s Careers and Employability Service helps you find placements, internships, and graduate roles that fit your goals. You’ll also have access to the Student Employment Agency (SEA) for flexible on-campus and part-time work while you study.

• Strong Employment Outcomes – An impressive 96% of UK graduates from this course are employed or in further study, and 87% say they’re doing meaningful work that truly makes a difference.

• Industry Connections – You’ll have opportunities to work on real-world projects with local and international organisations, NGOs, and community groups — giving you experience that employers notice.

• Valued, Transferable Skills – From critical thinking and negotiation to research and communication, the skills you’ll build are sought after in politics, diplomacy, media, and the non-profit sector.

• Graduate Success – Previous graduates have gone on to roles in public policy, international organisations, journalism, and humanitarian work — or have continued their academic journey into postgraduate study.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue to develop your expertise through postgraduate study. Many students progress to master’s degrees in International Relations, Global Policy, Diplomacy, Development Studies, or Human Rights. Others pursue research degrees (MPhil or PhD) or specialist postgraduate qualifications that prepare them for leadership in international organisations and think tanks.