BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad

If you’re curious about how governments work, why countries cooperate—or clash—and want to make sense of global challenges, Bristol’s BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for globally minded students, enjoy debating big ideas, and want to study politics not just in theory but through lived experience in another country.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll start by building a solid foundation in political systems, international relations, and political concepts. Core units such as Foundations of Politics and Global Politics introduce you to the study of power, institutions, and international cooperation. This year ensures you develop strong analytical and writing skills while exploring themes that shape political life today.

Year 2
In your second year, you’ll take on more specialised study. Core modules like Comparative Politics and International Relations Theory deepen your understanding of how governments function and how global actors interact. You can also choose options such as International Security or Political Economy, giving you the flexibility to follow your own interests and career goals.

Year 3 – Study Abroad
Your third year is spent at a partner university overseas, offering you the chance to live and study in a different culture while broadening your global perspective. Whether in Europe, North America, or beyond, this year will enrich your studies with real international experience and prepare you for an increasingly interconnected world.

Year 4
In your final year back in Bristol, you’ll undertake an independent dissertation, giving you the chance to research a topic that inspires you. Alongside this, advanced optional units such as Global Development, International Political Theory, or Environmental Politics let you explore cutting-edge debates and graduate with expertise in the areas you’re most passionate about.

Focus Areas

Political systems; International relations; Comparative politics; International security; Political economy; Global development; Environmental politics

Learning Outcomes

Critical analysis of political systems and international institutions; ability to evaluate competing political theories; advanced research and writing skills; cross-cultural awareness and adaptability from the study abroad experience

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While the degree does not carry a formal professional accreditation, it is designed to equip students with highly transferable skills sought by employers in government, NGOs, media, think tanks, and international organisations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Bristol is ranked among the top 60 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025) and is consistently one of the UK’s most targeted universities by top employers (High Fliers 2024). Politics and International Relations at Bristol has a strong reputation for producing graduates with global awareness and excellent career outcomes.

At Bristol, you won’t just be learning about politics and international relations from textbooks—you’ll be living it. The programme is designed to give you practical experience, cultural exposure, and the chance to work closely with experts who are shaping debates on global issues. From your first year right through to your dissertation, you’ll be encouraged to think critically, take part in real discussions, and test your ideas in a supportive but challenging environment.

Here’s what makes the hands-on experience so valuable:

• Study Abroad Adventure: Your third year is spent at a partner university overseas. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, experience a different academic style, and see global politics from a fresh perspective.

• Learning with Leading Experts: You’ll be part of SPAIS (the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies), where around 60 staff members are conducting influential research and sharing insights directly in the classroom.

• Research Communities: You can connect with specialist centres like the Global Insecurities Centre and the Centre for the Study of Ethnicity and Citizenship—great spaces for seminars, debates, and networking with academics working on today’s biggest political challenges.

• Your Own Dissertation: In your final year, you’ll choose a topic that excites you and work one-on-one with a supervisor to develop a dissertation. It’s your chance to showcase independent research and original thinking.

• Skills for Your Career: Workshops, guest lectures, and even student societies help you sharpen presentation, analysis, and teamwork skills—qualities that employers look for in graduates.

• Top-Class Study Facilities: Whether you prefer buzzing group spaces or quiet corners, you’ll find excellent libraries and study hubs like the Arts and Social Sciences Library or Beacon House, packed with digital resources and modern study areas.