BSc International Relations

At Southampton, this degree is designed to take you beyond the classroom. You won’t just learn theories of politics and international relations — you’ll see them in action. Whether it’s walking the corridors of Westminster, spending a year in industry, or studying abroad in a completely different political system, you’ll have plenty of chances to apply what you’re learning to the real world. Along the way, you’ll build the kind of practical skills and confidence that employers notice straight away.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Field trips – optional visits to places like Whitehall and Westminster give you a front-row view of how politics actually works in the UK.

• Placement year – you can choose to spend a year working in industry, gaining real experience that makes your CV stand out.

• Study abroad – experience life and politics in another country, with options in Europe, North America and the Far East.

• Specialist library and databases – the Hartley Library and 15+ dedicated politics databases give you everything you need to dig into research and back up your ideas with evidence.

• Internships – through Southampton’s UoS Internships scheme, you can take on short-term or part-time internships (on-site, virtual, or hybrid) to get a taste of professional life while you study.

A degree in International Relations from Southampton opens doors in all sorts of directions. Graduates often go into careers in government, diplomacy, policy research, and NGOs — but many also find themselves working in journalism, international business, or public affairs. Because the course builds your confidence in research, communication, and problem-solving, you’ll leave with skills that employers really value.

Here’s how Southampton helps you get there:

• Tailored career support – the Careers & Employability Service runs one-to-one coaching, skills workshops, and networking events. You’ll also have access to MyCareer, an exclusive job and internship platform.

• Outstanding outcomes – 98% of Politics and International Relations students are in work or further study within 6 months of graduating. Typical salaries average £28,000 within 15 months, rising to around £38,000 after five years.

• Real-world links – through employer talks, careers fairs, and the UoS Internship Programme, you’ll meet organisations that regularly recruit Southampton graduates.

• Trusted quality – the degree is regulated by the Office for Students, so you know your qualification carries long-term value wherever your career takes you.

• Graduate destinations – alumni have gone into roles such as policy analyst, campaign officer, diplomatic service officer, and researcher in think-tanks and international organisations.

Further Academic Progression:

If you want to keep studying, you’ll be well prepared for master’s programmes in International Relations, Global Politics, Security Studies, or Diplomacy. Some graduates continue into research degrees (MRes or PhD), while others branch out into related fields like international development, law, or business.