BA International Relations

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA International Relations at the University of Exeter helps students understand the complex political, economic, and social forces that shape the world today. This course is ideal for students interested in global affairs, diplomacy, security, and international cooperation, while developing the research, analytical, and communication skills needed for careers in government, international organisations, policy, and business.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong understanding of international relations and develop the essential skills needed to analyse global issues. Modules such as Critical Skills for Politics and International Relations, Globalisation of World Politics, The Challenges of World Politics in the Twenty-First Century, and International Politics of the Global South introduce students to major political theories, global challenges, international systems, and the changing nature of world affairs.

Year 2:
In the second year, students explore more specialised areas of international relations while developing stronger research and analytical abilities. Modules such as Contemporary Theories of World Politics, The Politics of the World Economy, Security Studies, and Introduction to Research Design in Politics and International Relations allow students to examine global power relationships, economic systems, security issues, and the methods used to study international politics.

Year 3:
In the final year, students develop advanced knowledge through specialist topics and independent research. Students complete a Dissertation while studying areas such as Rising Powers, Peace and Conflict, The Changing Character of Warfare, Foreign Policy Analysis, Environmental Governance, The Politics of Humanitarian Emergencies, and Gendering World Politics, allowing them to explore important global issues in greater depth.

Optional Study Abroad / Employment Experience:
Students can choose a four-year pathway with either a Study Abroad year or an Employment Experience year. The Study Abroad option provides the chance to study at an overseas partner university, while the Employment Experience option allows students to gain professional workplace experience through a graduate-level placement in the UK or abroad.

Focus Areas

International politics, globalisation, diplomacy, international security, world economy, foreign policy, peace and conflict studies, humanitarian issues, environmental governance, political research methods, and global challenges.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse international events, evaluate political ideas, conduct independent research, and communicate complex arguments effectively. The programme also strengthens transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and written and verbal communication, preparing students for a wide range of professional opportunities.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA International Relations develops skills that are highly relevant for careers in government, international organisations, policy, consulting, journalism, research, and global business. Through research-led teaching, independent projects, presentations, and opportunities for professional experience, students gain the ability to understand global issues and contribute to decision-making in international contexts.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter has an excellent reputation for Politics and International Relations, offering students the opportunity to learn within a globally recognised research environment. The subject is ranked among the leading Politics departments in the UK, with strong international recognition for research quality and teaching excellence, helping graduates build a strong foundation for careers in global affairs and related fields.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, studying International Relations isn’t just about reading books or listening to lectures — it’s about stepping into the world of global politics firsthand. From internships and group projects to study abroad experiences, students get plenty of opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in real-world settings. You’ll also have access to excellent facilities, digital tools, and expert guidance to help turn your ideas into practical skills.

Here’s how you can get hands-on experience during your degree:

Internships and Work Placements – Through the Career Zone, you can take part in paid internships both on and off campus, including Student Campus Partnerships (SCP), Student Business Partnerships (SBP), and Access to Internships (A2I), giving you real work experience while you study.
Study Abroad & Summer Schools – Short programs at universities around the world let you gain international exposure, experience different cultures, and build a global perspective.
Research and Digital Tools – The Digital Humanities Lab offers internships and support in digital research methods, so you can explore the intersection of politics, technology, and data.
Libraries and Study Spaces – Modern libraries like the Forum Library provide extensive resources, quiet study areas, and collaborative spaces to support your research and coursework.
Global Learning Awards – Funding opportunities are available for students who want to take part in international experiences, helping you make your global ambitions a reality.

These experiences are designed to make your learning practical, exciting, and career-ready, so you graduate not just with knowledge but with skills employers value.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA International Relations at the University of Exeter prepares graduates for careers where understanding global affairs, political systems, and international challenges is highly valued. The programme develops strong research, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, helping students progress into roles such as Policy Analyst, Civil Servant, Parliamentary Researcher, Management Consultant, Communications Officer, and International Relations Specialist.

By combining academic knowledge with practical experience and employability support, the course helps students build the confidence and skills needed for a successful career in a global environment. Exeter provides a range of opportunities to gain professional experience, connect with employers, and prepare for future career pathways:

Dedicated Careers Service: Students have access to Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides personalised careers advice, employability workshops, employer events, careers fairs, mentoring opportunities, and support with CV writing, applications, and interview preparation. Students can also complete the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award to develop and showcase their professional skills.
Employment Experience opportunities: Students can choose an Employment Experience pathway, allowing them to complete a graduate-level placement in the UK or overseas. This opportunity helps students apply their knowledge in a professional setting, gain workplace experience, and strengthen their future career prospects.
Graduate career destinations: Graduates move into careers across government, consulting, research, communications, finance, media, and international organisations. Previous graduates have progressed into roles such as Management Consultant, Parliamentary Researcher, Civil Servant, Communications Officer, Analyst, Trainee Insurance Broker, Investment Assistant, and Film Production Coordinator.
Employer connections and networking: Students benefit from Exeter’s links with employers through careers events, employer talks, networking opportunities, and professional development activities. These experiences help students understand different career routes and build connections with organisations across the public, private, and international sectors.
Employment outcomes: The programme develops transferable skills that are valued by employers, including critical thinking, independent research, communication, teamwork, leadership, and the ability to analyse complex global issues. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers or further academic study.
Long-term value of the degree: The ability to understand international affairs, evaluate evidence, communicate effectively, and solve complex problems provides graduates with skills that remain valuable throughout their careers. These capabilities support progression into specialist roles, leadership positions, and opportunities in global organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA International Relations, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes to specialise in areas such as international politics, security, diplomacy, public policy, and global development. Possible progression routes include courses such as MA International Relations, MA Crisis Management, MSc Public Policy, MA Globalisation and Communications, MA EU Politics, and MA Public Policy and Administration, allowing graduates to deepen their expertise and prepare for advanced professional roles.