BA Politics and International Relations (Cornwall)

This degree isn’t just about sitting in lectures—it’s about seeing politics in action and learning how to apply your knowledge in the real world. At Exeter’s Penryn Campus, you’ll benefit from small class sizes, close contact with lecturers, and plenty of opportunities to test ideas in practical settings. From field trips and internships to debates with guest speakers, your learning will feel alive and connected to real communities and global issues.

And here’s how those experiences take shape:

• Internships and placements – Through the University’s Career Zone and the Student Business Partnership scheme, you can gain work experience with local councils, charities, or NGOs, giving you a real taste of public policy and community engagement.

• Collaborative projects – Many modules include group work, presentations, and problem-solving activities, building teamwork and communication skills you’ll need in any career.

• Field trips – Some classes take learning beyond campus, exploring how politics and policy play out in real-world environments.

• Independent research – In your final year, your dissertation lets you design your own project around a political issue you’re passionate about, with one-to-one guidance from an academic supervisor.

• Specialist facilities – You’ll study on the Penryn Campus, home to the Environment and Sustainability Institute and the Institute of Cornish Studies, alongside a modern library, seminar rooms, and dedicated study spaces.

• Guest talks and events – Regular workshops, debates, and guest lectures bring you face-to-face with experts, campaigners, and policymakers, so you’re always connecting classroom theory with current political practice.

A degree in Politics and International Relations from Exeter opens doors to an exciting mix of careers. Many graduates step into roles such as policy analyst, public affairs officer, research associate in think tanks, or into the civil service. Others branch out into media, campaigning, or international NGOs. What sets you apart is the balance of academic depth and hands-on experience you’ll gain throughout the course.

Here’s how Exeter helps you turn your degree into a career:

• Tailored career support – The University’s Career Zone will coach you through CV building, interview practice, assessment centre preparation, and even connect you with exclusive graduate jobs.

• Paid internships & work experience – Through Student Business Partnerships and Campus Partnerships, you can gain meaningful, paid experience with local councils, charities, research institutes, and employers across the Southwest.

• Strong graduate outcomes – Exeter Politics & IR graduates earn around £27,000 just 15 months after finishing, with average salaries rising to £38,500 within five years.

• Employer connections – The university has long-standing partnerships with regional businesses, government organisations, and community groups, giving you a head start in networking and real-world exposure.

• Trusted reputation – Exeter’s Politics degrees are highly ranked and internationally recognised, so wherever you go—public sector, private sector, or non-profit—you’ll carry a respected qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re keen to study further, you could take a master’s in International Relations, Public Policy, Security Studies, or Global Politics—programs Exeter also offers. You could also progress to a PhD if research excites you, or move into professional postgraduate training in areas like diplomacy or public administration.