3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at the University of Hertfordshire gives you the tools to understand how politics shapes the world around us. It’s perfect for curious minds who want to explore global issues, from international conflicts to climate change, and gain the skills to make sense of complex political landscapes.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Building Your Foundations
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in the essentials of politics and international relations. Modules like Introduction to Political Theory help you understand key ideas and thinkers, while Global Politics explores how nations interact on the world stage. Research Methods in Politics equips you with the skills to investigate and analyze political questions effectively.
Year 2: Expanding Knowledge and Skills
Year two lets you dive deeper into the subjects that shape our world. With modules like Comparative Politics, you’ll examine how different governments function, while International Political Economy looks at how politics and economics intersect globally. Political Sociology explores the role of society in shaping political behavior, giving you a rounded perspective.
Year 3: Specialise and Shine
In your final year, you can focus on the areas you’re most passionate about. Options like Political Communication show how media influences politics, and International Security explores today’s global threats. The dissertation gives you the chance to research a topic you care about, developing skills that will set you apart in the job market.
Focus Areas: Political theory, international relations, political sociology, comparative politics, international political economy, political communication, international security.
Learning Outcomes: Think critically about political systems, understand global politics, conduct independent research, communicate effectively, and engage with real-world issues.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Meets the Quality Assurance Agency’s standards for Politics and International Relations, ensuring your degree is respected and relevant.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Hertfordshire is ranked among the top 50 UK universities (Guardian University Guide, 2026) and has a 90% graduate employability rate (Graduate Outcomes, 2022/23), reflecting strong industry links and excellent career support.
At Herts, learning goes beyond the classroom. Politics and International Relations students gain hands-on experience through interactive workshops, group projects, and real-world research opportunities that bring theory to life. You’ll have access to modern digital tools, professional skills modules, and dedicated support for work placements or study abroad, helping you build practical skills that employers value. The program also encourages participation in events, simulations, and networking sessions with industry professionals, ensuring you’re career-ready from day one.
Here’s how you’ll experience learning first-hand:
Work placement options and study abroad opportunities to gain international exposure.
Professional skills modules with employer introductions and networking sessions.
Group projects and interactive workshops to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Access to the University of Hertfordshire’s libraries, research facilities, and digital resources.
Opportunities to attend guest lectures, seminars, and events with political and business leaders.
Practical research experience through dedicated modules in political science and international relations.
Graduates from the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program at Hertfordshire leave university ready to make an impact in the world of politics, policy, and international affairs. With the skills to analyse complex political systems, understand global issues, and communicate effectively, alumni often move into careers such as:
Political Analyst
Policy Advisor
International Relations Specialist
Public Affairs Consultant
The program also gives you practical support and opportunities to boost your employability:
Work Placement Year: Gain hands-on industry experience with a year-long placement, giving you real-world skills and contacts before you graduate.
Career Support Services: The university’s Careers and Employment team helps you explore options, polish your CV, and prepare for interviews.
Industry Partnerships: Engage with guest lectures, internships, and networking opportunities through collaborations with organizations like Watford FC and London Mavericks.
High Employability Rates: Around 96.5% of graduates are in work or further study within six months of finishing their degree.
Competitive Salaries: Graduates typically earn an average of £23,000 within 15 months of completing the course.
Further Academic Progression:
If you’re inspired to continue studying, you could progress to the MA International Relations at Hertfordshire. This postgraduate program allows you to specialise in areas like international security, global governance, and political economy, further sharpening your analytical and research skills. It’s an ideal pathway if you’re aiming for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, or academic research.
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