Politics and International Relations - Quantitative Methods BSc

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

This degree combines the study of politics and international relations with hands-on training in quantitative methods, helping you understand global politics through real data and evidence. It’s perfect for students curious about how the world works politically and who want strong research and analytical skills that make them stand out to employers.

Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll start with the essentials, exploring political ideas and systems through modules like Introduction to Political Theory and Problems in Global Politics. Alongside this, Introduction to Political Data and Analysis introduces you to the basics of working with data in social science. Optional modules, such as British Constitution in Crisis or International Politics of the Asia-Pacific, let you explore topics that spark your interest.

Year 2: This year, you dig deeper into both theory and data. In Analysing and Interpreting Political Data, you’ll build your skills in statistics and research methods, while optional modules like British Party Politics, Global Security, or International Political Economy and Global Development let you tailor your studies toward domestic politics, security, or global economic issues. You’ll start to combine your knowledge of political systems with practical data analysis.

Year 3: Your final year focuses on advanced skills and independent research. Advanced Quantitative Methods for Social Science will sharpen your ability to handle complex datasets, and the Dissertation gives you the chance to research a topic you’re passionate about. Optional modules like Politics of Human Rights, Political Violence, or The Middle East and the World allow you to dive deeper into areas that excite you most.

Focus areas: Comparative politics, political theory, international relations, data analysis, policy, global development, human rights, and security studies.
Learning outcomes: Develop the ability to critically assess political systems, carry out independent research using quantitative methods, and communicate evidence-based insights clearly—skills that are highly valued across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Professional alignment (accreditation): While not tied to a specific professional body, the program’s strong quantitative and research training equips graduates for a wide range of careers and further study.
Reputation (employability rankings): Nottingham is ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide and top 20 in the UK by QS. The School of Politics & International Relations reports that 85.7% of Social Sciences graduates find graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months, with an average starting salary of £29,197.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From day one, this course is designed to get you actively involved in politics and data, not just reading about it in textbooks. You’ll work with real datasets, use professional software to analyse political questions, and apply the statistical techniques you learn in class to real-world problems. The School of Politics & International Relations supports you every step of the way with seminars, workshops, and access to their research expertise, so you’ll always be learning alongside cutting-edge political research.

You’ll also get hands-on experience in a variety of ways:

Computer labs for practical data work: Modules like Advanced Quantitative Methods for Social Science include sessions where you analyse real datasets using statistical software.
Digital tools and software skills: Learn to prepare, visualise, and interpret data in professional computing environments.
Interactive group learning: Small seminars and workshops let you collaborate on discussions, presentations, and group projects.
Research-led teaching: Benefit from teaching that integrates current political debates, case studies, and empirical research.
Library and study resources: Access Hallward Library and other digital resources to support research, assignments, and independent projects.
Optional applied modules: Choose topics like Global Security or Secret Intelligence and International Security, which include case studies and simulations of real-world scenarios.

All of this helps you turn theory into practical skills that are highly valued by employers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme leave ready to take on careers that blend political insight with strong data and research skills. You could see yourself working as a policy analyst in government, a researcher for an international NGO, a data analyst in public or private organisations, or even a parliamentary assistant. The combination of politics, international relations, and quantitative skills really sets you apart in a competitive job market.

You’ll have plenty of support and opportunities to launch your career:

Careers and Employability Service: Get lifelong guidance, workshops on CVs, interview preparation, access to job boards, and networking events with employers.
Strong graduate outcomes: Around 86% of Social Sciences undergraduates secure graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months, with an average starting salary of £29,197.
Internships and industry links: Gain real-world experience through placements and internships with organisations such as the Cabinet Office, PwC, and BBC, as well as public and charity-sector opportunities.
Long-term skill value: The mix of political knowledge and quantitative methods equips you for a wide range of careers and provides a solid foundation for further specialisation or advanced study.
Career paths of alumni: Graduates have gone on to roles in civil service, research, media, public affairs, international development, and data analytics.

Further Academic Progression:
If you choose to continue your studies, this BSc gives you a strong platform for master’s or doctoral degrees in political science, international relations, public policy, security studies, or social science data analytics. You’ll be well-prepared to take on advanced research or professional qualifications, giving your career an extra edge.