BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Sandwich Placement

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Wolverhampton

Program Overview

This degree gives you a unique opportunity to explore how politics works both at home and globally, while gaining hands-on experience through a placement year. It's perfect for anyone who’s curious about international affairs, wants to make an impact in policy or diplomacy, and enjoys thinking critically about the world around them.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations of Politics and International Relations

In your first year, you’ll get a strong grounding in the basics of politics and international relations. Modules like Introduction to Politics, Introduction to International Relations, and Political Ideas will help you understand how governments, societies, and global systems function.

Year 2: Building Skills and Insights

Year two focuses on developing your analytical and research skills. Through modules such as Political Analysis, Global Security, and Comparative Politics, you’ll learn to evaluate global issues and political systems, preparing you to think critically about complex situations.

Year 3: Professional Placement Year

The third year is all about real-world experience. You’ll spend time in a professional environment, applying your knowledge, gaining practical insights, and building connections that could be invaluable for your future career.

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Dissertation

In your final year, you’ll dive deeper into specialized areas with modules like Global Governance, International Political Economy, and Political Theory. You’ll also complete a dissertation, giving you the chance to research a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your independent thinking.

Focus Areas

International relations theory, global security, political economy, governance, comparative political systems, policy analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to: analyze political systems, carry out independent research, evaluate global security issues, think critically about policy, and communicate complex ideas clearly.

Professional Alignment

The program equips you for roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, and policy analysis, giving you both academic knowledge and practical experience.

Reputation and Employability Rankings

The University of Wolverhampton emphasizes employability and real-world experience. The sandwich placement year helps graduates stand out in the job market, giving them confidence and connections for a successful career.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is all about learning by doing. From your very first year, you’ll not only explore theories and debates in politics and international relations, but also get opportunities to put that knowledge into practice. The university provides strong support, hands-on modules, and connections with real-world organisations, helping you build the skills and confidence you need for your career. A highlight of the degree is the sandwich placement year, where you’ll work in a professional setting and gain invaluable work experience that complements your studies.

You’ll benefit from practical learning through a mix of projects, placements, and active engagement with real-world issues:

Year-long work placement (sandwich year): Gain hands-on experience with a local or international organisation relevant to politics or international relations.
Community engagement modules: Participate in initiatives like volunteering and social change projects that connect you directly with civic and third-sector organisations.
Case-study learning: Analyze live global issues such as migration, climate change, and human rights, applying theory to real-world scenarios.
Independent research projects and dissertation: Plan, conduct, and present your own research, building critical thinking and analytical skills.
Access to university facilities and academic networks: Receive guidance from experienced staff in the School of Social Science, Humanities and Creative Industries and connect with local politics and organisations.
Digital and communication skills development: Work on reports, presentations, debates, and collaborative projects, enhancing your professional skillset.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this degree opens up a world of opportunities in politics, diplomacy, and international affairs. Thanks to the strong foundation you’ll gain in global issues, combined with the hands-on experience of the sandwich placement, you’ll be ready for careers such as:

Political Analyst – researching trends, advising on policies, and shaping decisions.
Diplomatic Service Officer – representing national interests abroad and working on international negotiations.
Policy Advisor – helping governments or organizations develop strategies and solutions.
International Relations Consultant – offering guidance on global affairs to organizations and institutions.

Your career journey is supported every step of the way:

Career Development Centre – personalized advice, CV workshops, and interview prep to help you land the right role.
Employability Hub – access to internships, placements, and networking opportunities with professionals in politics and international relations.
Alumni Network – tap into a community of graduates for mentorship and career guidance.
International Partnerships – connections with global organizations for practical experience and opportunities.

In terms of outcomes:

Around 73% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months.
Median starting salary is about £25,000, rising as you gain experience.
Long-term earning potential grows significantly, with many graduates earning up to £40,000 within five years.

Further Academic Progression:

Once you finish this program, there are plenty of ways to continue your studies:

Postgraduate degrees in International Relations, Political Science, or Public Policy.
Professional certifications in diplomacy, international law, or political analysis for a more specialized career.
Research opportunities such as a PhD to explore a topic in-depth and contribute original knowledge to the field.

With this degree, you’re not just gaining knowledge—you’re building a career with real impact.