BA Global Politics (Cornwall)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Global Politics (Cornwall) at the University of Exeter gives you a chance to explore politics on a global scale, from international relations to pressing societal challenges. It’s ideal for students who are curious about world affairs and want to develop strong research, analytical, and communication skills, with the flexibility to spend a year abroad or gain valuable work experience as part of your degree.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in politics and international relations. Core modules like Critical Skills for Politics and International Relations, Globalisation of World Politics, and Power and Democracy introduce the key ideas and methods you’ll build on later. Optional modules such as The Challenges of World Politics in the Twenty-First Century or Politics in Europe allow you to start exploring areas that interest you most.

Year 2:
The second year takes you deeper into comparative politics and international relations. Core modules like International Political Economy and Comparative Politics are complemented by optional choices such as Political Theory and International Security, letting you focus on topics that capture your interest. This year also prepares you for the opportunity to study abroad or take up an employment experience in your third year.

Year 3:
In your final year, you get to specialise and carry out independent research. The Dissertation module lets you explore a topic you’re passionate about, while optional modules like Global Environmental Politics or Conflict and Development help tailor your studies to your goals. If you choose a year abroad or employment experience, this is where you gain practical international or professional experience, applying your knowledge to real-world challenges.

Focus Areas: Global political systems, international relations, comparative politics, political theory, international security, global environmental politics, conflict and development

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking about global issues, research and analytical skills, strong written and verbal communication, understanding of international relations theories, and confidence tackling complex political problems

Professional Alignment: Careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, policy analysis, and academia

Reputation: The University of Exeter is highly regarded for its political science courses, combining research-led teaching with a strong focus on employability. Graduates leave with the skills and experience valued by employers across the globe.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. Students in the BA Global Politics (Cornwall) program gain hands-on experience through real-world opportunities that bring theory to life. Whether it’s engaging with international issues on a study abroad program, stepping into the professional world through an employment experience placement, or exploring politics in action during field trips, you’ll develop practical skills alongside your academic knowledge. The campus itself is designed to support collaborative learning, with modern facilities, dedicated research centres, and a vibrant community of academics and peers.

Some of the key experiential learning opportunities include:

Study Abroad Programs: Spend a year at one of the University’s partner institutions worldwide, broadening your global perspective and experiencing different political systems firsthand.
Employment Experience Placements: Take a year-long work placement in the UK as part of the ‘with Employment Experience’ option, gaining professional skills and insights into potential career paths.
Field Trips: Participate in excursions connected to your modules, giving you practical insights into political institutions and international relations.
Collaborative Learning Spaces: Work on group projects, seminars, and interactive workshops in modern, student-focused facilities that encourage teamwork and discussion.
Access to Research Centres: Engage with research centres focused on politics, international relations, and sustainable futures, with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research.
Guest Lectures and Seminars: Attend talks, debates, and social events hosted by experts and professionals, helping you build connections and gain insights from people working in the field.

These experiences ensure that you’re not just learning about global politics, but actively practicing and applying your knowledge, giving you skills and confidence that employers value.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA Global Politics (Cornwall) program leave the University of Exeter well-prepared for a range of careers in both public and private sectors. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, alumni often go on to roles such as management consultant, parliamentary researcher, civil servant, or communications officer. The program equips you not only with knowledge but also with practical experience that employers value highly.

These career outcomes are supported by the university’s extensive career services and industry connections:

Career Zone: Personalized guidance on career planning, CV workshops, and interview preparation.
Employability and Graduate Development: Programs designed to boost your employability skills and connect you with potential employers.
Global Partnerships: Opportunities for international internships and collaborative projects to expand your career options.
Industry Connections and Accreditations: Engagements with global partners and recognition through prestigious accreditations like EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA ensure your degree is valued worldwide.
Graduate Success: Around 87% of Politics and International Relations graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing their degree .

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BA Global Politics (Cornwall), students can continue their studies in several ways:

Postgraduate Programs: Pursue Master’s degrees in fields like International Relations, Public Policy, or Security Studies at Exeter or other universities.
PhD Opportunities: Conduct advanced research in Politics and International Relations, contributing to cutting-edge scholarship.
Professional Qualifications: Specialize further with certifications in public administration, diplomacy, or international law.

These pathways allow you to deepen your knowledge, develop expertise, and enhance your prospects in the global political arena.