BA Hons Politics and International Relations

At QMUL, studying Politics and International Relations isn’t just about lectures and books — you’ll actually experience how politics works in practice. From internships inside Parliament to research projects you design yourself, the degree gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and build the skills employers look for. You’ll use specialist software, take part in group projects and debates, and even have the option to study abroad.

Here’s how you’ll gain those real-world skills:

• Parliamentary & Civil Society Internships – In your final year, you can spend two days a week working with an MP at Westminster or with a civil society organisation in London. This gives you an insider experience of law-making, policy debates, campaigning, and community work.

• Independent Dissertation Project – Guided by an academic supervisor, you’ll design and complete your own 10,000-word research project. It’s a real test of your analytical and project-management skills, and a great talking point for future job applications.

• Small-Group Seminars & Simulations – Classes aren’t just note-taking: you’ll debate current issues, deliver presentations, and take part in role-plays and simulations that mirror real political negotiations.

• Digital Tools for Research – You’ll get hands-on training with research and data analysis software such as SPSS, Stata, and NVivo, plus access to QMplus (the online learning platform) and lecture capture.

• World-Class Libraries & Study Spaces – The Mile End Library is open 24/7 in term time, giving you constant access to books, journals, and quiet study zones. As part of the University of London, you can also use specialist libraries across the city.

• Global Exposure – By choosing the Year Abroad option, you’ll study at one of QMUL’s partner universities overseas, developing international perspectives and cross-cultural skills that are invaluable in careers like diplomacy and global policy.

• London Internship Programme – Another pathway is the London Internship Programme, where you combine academic study with a placement in a London-based organisation, building professional experience alongside your degree.

A Politics and International Relations degree from QMUL opens doors to careers where your ability to think critically, analyse global issues, and communicate clearly truly stand out. Graduates move into exciting roles such as policy advisors in government, public affairs specialists, journalists, or working with international organisations and NGOs. With London on your doorstep, you’ll be studying in the heart of political life, giving you the chance to build networks while you study.

Here’s how QMUL helps you get there:

• Tailored Careers Support – You’ll benefit from one-to-one advice, interview preparation, and exclusive internship opportunities through QMUL’s Careers & Enterprise service.

• Strong Graduate Outcomes – Around 88% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. Early-career salaries average around £30,500, showing the real value of your degree.

• Industry & Policy Links – Thanks to QMUL’s location and partnerships, students gain access to Westminster, Whitehall, NGOs, and media organisations, putting them in touch with employers before they even graduate.

• Lasting Value – A Politics & International Relations degree from a Russell Group university is highly respected worldwide, helping you stand out whether you pursue a career straight away or choose postgraduate study.

Further Academic Progression:

If you decide to continue studying, you can move on to Master’s degrees in areas such as International Relations, Public Policy, or Diplomacy — QMUL itself offers an MA in International Relations. For those interested in research or academia, you can also pursue MPhil or PhD studies, focusing on areas like global conflict, governance, or international security.