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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of East Anglia
The BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year at UEA is perfect for students who are curious about how politics shapes the world and want to make a real impact. You’ll explore global issues, political systems, and international relations, gaining the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in diplomacy, policy, or international organizations.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Politics and International Relations
In your first year, you’ll build a solid grounding in politics and international relations. Modules like Introduction to Politics, Political Ideas, and International Relations: Theory and Practice introduce key concepts and help you develop analytical skills that will support your learning in later years.
Year 2: Advanced Political Analysis and Global Issues
Year two takes you deeper into the world of politics and global affairs. You’ll study modules such as Comparative Politics, International Political Economy, and Global Security, giving you a deeper understanding of political systems, economic policies, and security challenges around the world.
Year 3: Placement Year
The third year is all about experience. You’ll spend 9–12 months working in a relevant organization, applying what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations. This placement gives you invaluable insights and helps you build professional skills that will make you stand out after graduation.
Year 4: Specialisation and Dissertation
In your final year, you can focus on areas that interest you most through modules like Political Theory, International Law, and Conflict Resolution. You’ll also complete a dissertation, carrying out independent research to showcase your expertise and analytical skills.
Focus Areas
International Relations, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, Global Security, International Political Economy, Conflict Resolution, International Law
Learning Outcomes
Develop critical thinking and analytical skills, gain a solid understanding of political systems, build global awareness, strengthen research and communication abilities, and gain hands-on experience in professional political environments.
Professional Alignment
While the program isn’t formally accredited, it’s designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and experience that employers in government, NGOs, and international organizations are looking for.
Reputation
UEA is ranked among the Top 20 in the UK for International Relations by the Guardian University Guide 2025, reflecting the university’s strong reputation and the quality of teaching and support for students.
At UEA, this program isn’t just about learning theory in a classroom—you’ll get plenty of chances to put your knowledge into practice. The placement year is at the heart of this approach, giving you real-world experience in a political or international organization, so you can see firsthand how global issues and policy decisions play out. Alongside this, you’ll have access to excellent resources, supportive staff, and a vibrant student community, all designed to help you gain practical skills and boost your confidence in professional settings.
Some of the experiential learning opportunities include:
Placement Year: Spend 9–12 months working in a relevant organization, building professional skills, networking, and applying what you’ve learned in real-world situations.
UEA Careers Service: Get tailored advice, workshops, and networking support to help you secure your placement and plan your future career.
Study Abroad Options: Broaden your perspective with opportunities to study internationally, experiencing politics in a global context.
Research Centres: Engage with cutting-edge political research and current global issues through UEA’s dedicated research institutes.
Student Societies: Join politics and international relations societies to discuss ideas, debate current affairs, and connect with fellow students.
Library and Learning Resources: Access extensive collections, digital tools, and research support tailored to politics and international relations.
These opportunities are all about bridging classroom learning and real-world experience, giving you the confidence, skills, and connections to thrive in your future career.
Graduates from this program leave UEA ready to make a real impact in the world of politics and international relations. With a solid mix of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, you’ll be prepared for roles such as Policy Analyst, International Relations Consultant, Diplomatic Service Officer, or NGO Coordinator. The program equips you with the confidence and skills to thrive in both national and international careers.
Some ways UEA supports your journey from study to career include:
UEA Careers Service: Personalized advice, workshops, and networking opportunities to help you secure placements and your first role after graduation.
Graduate Success: According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey, 81% of UEA graduates are in professional work or further study 15 months after completing their degree.
University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with international organizations, NGOs, and policy institutes provide practical experience and enhance career prospects.
Long-Term Degree Value: The rigorous curriculum and UEA’s strong reputation ensure your degree is respected by employers worldwide.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates go on to meaningful careers in international relations, public policy, diplomacy, and beyond.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BA, you can continue your studies with postgraduate programs at UEA in areas like international relations, politics, and global development. This is a great option if you want to specialize further, pursue research, or open doors to higher-level professional roles.
GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above; alternatively, Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics is accepted in place of a GCSE in Mathematics.IELTS - 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) TOEFL iBT (including Special Home Edition) overall score 79, with individual minimum scores of Reading 18, Writing 17, Listening 17, and Speaking 20.India – 70%+ in Standard XII (requirements vary by board)India - english language requirement : Standard XII — CBSE or CISCE (covering ISC and ICSE), or state boards from Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, or West Bengal — minimum of 70% in English Language.USA – High School Diploma with a 3.3 GPA, plus 3 AP exams with scores of 3+, or ACT: 27+ SAT:1280+Placement Year Fee - Home students (UK) :1,430
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