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4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of PortsmouthThe BA (Hons) International Relations at the University of Portsmouth gives you the tools to understand the world’s biggest challenges, from global conflicts to migration and the rise of populism. It’s perfect for students curious about international affairs who want to combine theory with hands-on experience, including a valuable work placement.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundations of International Relations
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in the key ideas and history behind global politics. Modules like Introduction to International Relations and Global Politics help you understand how countries and organizations interact and why world events unfold the way they do.
Year 2: Deepening Understanding
Year two takes you deeper into specialized areas such as international law, human rights, and global security. Through modules like International Law and Security Studies, you’ll build analytical skills and learn how to critically evaluate complex international issues. You’ll also start developing strong research skills for your later independent projects.
Year 3: Work Placement Year
This year gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and gain practical experience in a real-world international relations role. Whether it’s with an NGO, government agency, or international organization, the placement helps you apply what you’ve learned, build your CV, and explore future career paths.
Year 4: Advanced Study and Dissertation
In your final year, you’ll tackle advanced topics like Global Governance and International Political Economy. You’ll also complete a dissertation, giving you the opportunity to research a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Focus Areas:
Global conflict, migration, populism, international organizations, human rights, international law, global security, global governance, international political economy.
Learning Outcomes:
Develop critical thinking on global issues, understand international systems, build strong research and analytical skills, gain practical work experience, and communicate complex ideas confidently.
Professional Alignment:
This degree prepares you for careers in international organizations, government, NGOs, or the private sector. The work placement year gives you hands-on experience and helps you build a professional network before you graduate.
Reputation:
Portsmouth University is known for its strong focus on employability and practical learning. The International Relations program’s work placement reflects this commitment, giving graduates an edge in the competitive global job market.
At Portsmouth, learning International Relations goes far beyond the classroom. You’ll gain hands-on experience by tackling real-world challenges, developing policy briefs, and working on collaborative projects with NGOs and international organizations. The program is designed to help you build professional skills, think critically, and understand global issues from multiple perspectives—all while making use of top-notch facilities and resources.
Here’s how your learning experience is enhanced:
Centre for European and International Studies Research (CEISR): Engage in cutting-edge research that informs real government and policy decisions.
Study Abroad Programme: Spend a term or a full year abroad to experience international politics firsthand and expand your global outlook.
Pop-up Seminars: Take part in interactive, informal discussions on current international issues with academics and guest speakers.
Policy Briefing Opportunities: Learn to craft professional policy briefs on major global topics, preparing you for careers in diplomacy, NGOs, or international organizations.
Collaborative Projects: Work alongside NGOs and international bodies on practical projects addressing real-world challenges.
University Facilities: Access the libraries, digital tools, and research resources designed to support your studies and independent research.
These experiences are carefully designed to give you practical skills, professional insight, and confidence—so you graduate ready to make an impact in the world of international relations.
Graduates from Portsmouth’s BA (Hons) International Relations program leave ready to make an impact in the world. With a strong understanding of global politics, policy analysis, and international issues, they move into careers such as:
Diplomatic Service Officer
Policy Advisor in Government or NGOs
International Development Specialist
Security Analyst in International Organizations
The program doesn’t just teach theory—it gives you real-world experience and support to kickstart your career:
Career Services: Tailored advice, workshops, and networking events help you plan your career and connect with potential employers. (port.ac.uk)
Work Placement Opportunities: The sandwich year allows you to gain hands-on experience in a real-world international relations role, giving you a head start in the job market.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like the United Nations, NGOs, and government bodies give you insight into the professional world and valuable connections.
Graduate Employment: Around 90% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of finishing the program.
Competitive Salaries: While starting salaries vary, the skills, placement experience, and industry reputation of Portsmouth graduates help secure strong early-career opportunities.
Long-Term Value:
Even without specific professional accreditation, this degree is highly respected by employers in international organizations, government, and NGOs, giving graduates a valuable edge in the global job market.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA, students can continue their studies with postgraduate programs like:
MA in International Relations and Politics
MA in International Development
PhD in Politics and International Relations
These advanced courses let you specialize further, pursue research, or prepare for careers in academia, policy, or diplomacy.
A-level - BCC- BBC Equivalent to 104-112 points to include a minimum of 2 A levelsIB - 24 points from the IB Diploma, with 444 at Higher Level.2 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above to include English.IELTS - 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.TOEFL(iBT) - 79 with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing.India – 75% or above in the Class 12 (State Board) examinations, or 70% in the Class 12 Central Board (CBSE) examinations.USA - High School Diploma with a GPA of 3.0 or above, plus either APs 433, or ACT 26, or SAT 1160 and three SAT Subject Tests (600, 580, 580).Placement year or study abroad year, tuition fees for UK students £1,430Policy AnalystDiplomatic Service OfficerInternational Development ConsultantHuman Rights AdvocateForeign Affairs ResearcherIntelligence AnalystNGO Program CoordinatorGlobal Communications SpecialistInternational Trade AdvisorPolitical Risk AnalystConflict Resolution SpecialistPublic Affairs OfficerInternational Organisation AdministratorHumanitarian Aid WorkerGovernment Policy Advisor
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