Politics with Year Abroad BA

Studying Politics at Birmingham isn’t just about reading books or writing essays—you’ll actually get to step into the shoes of politicians, diplomats, and policymakers. From simulations of international negotiations to trips to the heart of UK government, the course makes sure you experience politics in action, not just in theory.

You’ll build practical skills in research, debating, teamwork, and decision-making, while also making the most of Birmingham’s excellent study spaces, IT support, and specialist institutes. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Model NATO simulations – Work as part of a diplomatic team to tackle real-world global challenges in high-profile settings such as Washington, London, and Lisbon.

• Policy engagement & field trips – Join visits to Westminster and Whitehall, and take part in round-table discussions with leading politicians, academics, and policymakers.

• Specialist institutes & networks – Connect with research centres like the Institute for German and European Studies and the Centre for Russian, European and Eurasian Studies, giving you extra insight and contacts in the areas you care about most.

• Top-rated resources – Benefit from highly rated IT facilities, modern study spaces in Muirhead Tower, and one of the UK’s best university libraries, helping you stay ahead with research and assignments.

All of this means you’ll graduate not only with knowledge, but with the kind of hands-on experiences and confidence that employers and postgraduate programmes really value.

A degree in Politics with Year Abroad from Birmingham opens the door to careers where you can really make an impact—whether that’s shaping public policy, working in government, or influencing international organisations. Many graduates move into roles as policy analysts, diplomats, researchers, or communications consultants, and the year abroad gives you a competitive edge by proving you can adapt, network, and thrive in global settings.

Progression & Future Opportunities

What makes this programme especially valuable is how it prepares you for the job market. Alongside your academic studies, you’ll build skills and connections that employers look for:

• Career support that works for you
  Birmingham’s dedicated Careers Network helps you with everything from CV writing and interview practice to connecting you with employers. You’ll also benefit from unique opportunities like Model NATO simulations in Washington, London, and Lisbon—fantastic for anyone thinking about diplomacy or international work.

• Strong employment outcomes
  Within just 15 months of graduating, 87% of Politics students are either in work or further study. Graduates earn an average of £28,000, with many earning between £23,500 and £32,000 right out of university.

• Top employers know Birmingham
  The University of Birmingham is ranked #1 in the UK for being targeted by leading employers. You’ll meet recruiters and industry professionals through employer fairs, networking events, and internships organised by the Careers Network.

• A degree that carries weight
  As part of the Russell Group, Birmingham has a global reputation for research and teaching excellence. In fact, its Politics and International Studies department ranks top 10 in the UK for research power. That means your degree will be highly respected by employers and postgraduate institutions alike.

• Skills that last a lifetime
  Graduates highlight how their degree sharpened skills like critical thinking, negotiation, communication, and cultural awareness—all of which are transferable to a wide range of careers.

Further Academic Progression

If you want to continue studying after your BA, there are plenty of options:

• Master’s programmes in areas such as International Relations, Public Policy, Development Studies, or Global Governance.

• Professional routes like a law conversion course, public administration qualification, or journalism training.

• Research pathways (MPhil or PhD) if you’re keen to pursue academic or policy research at a higher level.

This degree is more than just a qualification—it’s a springboard to careers and postgraduate opportunities all over the world, backed by Birmingham’s strong reputation and international outlook.