Politics and International Relations (BA)

Studying International Relations and Politics at Cardiff is about far more than lectures and essays — it’s about putting theory into action. From your very first year, you’ll develop the skills to research, debate, and solve real-world political problems. You’ll work on independent projects, explore case studies, and use Cardiff’s excellent resources and networks to connect your classroom learning with real global challenges.

Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience throughout the course:

• Major final-year project: In your final year, you’ll design and complete a 40-credit project such as a dissertation, policy simulation, or community-based project. This is your chance to explore a topic you care about deeply, conduct independent research, and demonstrate the skills employers value.

• Interactive learning environment: Classes aren’t just lectures — they include debates, workshops, and group discussions that challenge you to think critically, build arguments, and present your ideas confidently.

• Access to specialist resources: You’ll use Cardiff’s extensive political science library, online databases, and digital research tools to support your projects and deepen your understanding of global politics.

• Real-world links and guest speakers: Through Cardiff’s close connections with Senedd Cymru (Welsh Parliament), Westminster, the EU, and NATO, you’ll benefit from guest lectures, networking opportunities, and exposure to the institutions where real decisions are made.

• Opportunities to tailor your studies: Many modules include practical elements like simulations, policy analysis exercises, and applied research projects, helping you connect theory to practice and explore areas that interest you most.

• Skills-focused workshops: Throughout your degree, you’ll have access to workshops on research methods, data analysis, writing, and presentation — all designed to build the transferable skills employers look for.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have more than just academic knowledge — you’ll have the practical experience, research skills, and confidence to step into roles in government, policy, NGOs, or international organisations.

A degree in International Relations and Politics from Cardiff University opens doors to impactful and exciting careers all over the world. Our graduates go on to shape policies, influence change, and work on global challenges — whether that’s in government, international organisations, NGOs, or the private sector. Typical roles include policy analyst, diplomat or foreign service officer, international development consultant, and public affairs or lobbying specialist.

Here’s how Cardiff sets you up for success:

• Career support that makes a difference: The dedicated Student Futures team helps you every step of the way — from CV building and interview coaching to connecting you with employers through networking events, career fairs and mentoring schemes.

• Strong graduate outcomes: 95% of Cardiff graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, and 86% are in highly skilled roles — a clear sign of how valued your degree will be.

• Powerful partnerships: You’ll benefit from Cardiff’s close links with UK Parliament, Senedd Cymru (Welsh Parliament), government agencies, charities, and think tanks. Modules co-taught by parliamentary clerks and guest lectures from policy experts bring the real world directly into your studies.

• Prestige that lasts: As part of the Russell Group, Cardiff’s reputation gives your degree weight with employers and institutions around the world. You’ll also join a global alumni network — a valuable resource for mentorship and career opportunities long after you graduate.

• Practical experience built in: Policy simulations, research projects, and opportunities for placements mean you’ll graduate with the hands-on experience employers look for, not just theory.

Further Academic Progression

Your journey doesn’t have to stop at graduation. Many students choose to deepen their expertise by pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Diplomacy, or Security Studies — either at Cardiff or other top global universities. If research is your passion, a PhD could be your next step, while others combine their background in politics with a law qualification to move into international law and governance.