BA Hons Politics and International Relations & Economics

At Strathclyde, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. This program gives you hands-on experience, helping you develop real-world skills that employers value. From engaging with leading researchers to exploring global policy issues firsthand, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn in practical settings. You’ll also get to work on group projects, conduct research, and use cutting-edge digital tools, preparing you for careers in politics, economics, and international affairs.

Here’s how you’ll experience learning in action:

• European Policies Research Centre – Work with applied policy research and gain insight into how European decisions are made.

• Centre for Energy Policy – Explore contemporary energy challenges and engage in projects with real-world relevance.

• Study Abroad Programs – Study at partner universities in Europe, North America, Australia, or Hong Kong to gain international experience.

• Access to Leading Scholars – Learn from experts in comparative politics, political behavior, international relations, and public policy.

• Specialist Modules – Courses like Data Science for Politics and Policymaking and Advanced Quantitative Methods help you build practical research and data analysis skills.

• Group Projects & Research Seminars – Collaborate with peers on policy-focused projects and conduct independent research for your dissertation.

• Libraries & Resources – Access the University’s extensive library collections, databases, and digital tools to support research and coursework.

These opportunities ensure you graduate not just with knowledge, but with the confidence and experience to succeed in a competitive world.

Graduating from this program opens up an exciting range of career possibilities. By combining political insight with economic analysis, you’ll be ready for roles such as Policy Analyst, Economic Consultant, Diplomatic Service Officer, or Public Affairs Specialist. You’ll have the knowledge, practical experience, and confidence to make an impact in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.

Here’s how Strathclyde helps you get there:

• Careers Service Support – One-on-one guidance, CV workshops, interview coaching, and job search assistance to help you step confidently into your career.

• Industry Connections – Partnerships with the European Union, OECD, and various government bodies give you opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world experience.

• Graduate Outcomes – Around 85% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing the degree, showing strong career prospects.

• Earnings Potential – Typical starting salaries range from £27,000 to £30,000 per year, with growth as you gain experience.

• Long-Term Value – While the program isn’t tied to a professional accreditation, employers highly value the analytical, research, and policy skills you’ll develop.

Further Academic Progression:

If you want to continue your studies, Strathclyde offers a range of postgraduate options to build on your undergraduate degree:

• MSc in International Relations – Deepen your understanding of global political dynamics.

• MSc in Applied Economics – Strengthen your skills in economic analysis and policymaking.

• MSc in Public Policy – Focus on designing, implementing, and evaluating policies.

These pathways can lead to advanced roles in research, policy-making, academia, or leadership positions in international and governmental organizations.