BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in IndustryYear

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

If you’re fascinated by world affairs, leadership, and the way power shapes our lives, this degree is designed for you. Kent’s Politics and International Relations with a Year in Industry gives you the chance to study how governments, institutions, and societies interact — while gaining hands-on experience in a real professional setting during your placement year. It’s ideal for students who want to turn curiosity about global issues into a meaningful, career-ready skill set.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundations of Politics and Global Systems
Your first year introduces you to the big questions that define political life: Who holds power? How do institutions shape decisions? What makes democracies thrive or fail? You’ll explore modules like Introduction to Politics, Comparative Political Systems, and Political Research Methods. These courses help you understand how governments function, how political theories are tested, and how global events are analysed using real data. You’ll also start developing the research and critical thinking skills that form the backbone of the program.

Year 2 – Theories, Conflicts, and Global Challenges
In your second year, you’ll dive deeper into political thought and international affairs. Modules such as International Relations Theory, Political Theory, Global Governance, and Conflict and Security challenge you to think about how states manage cooperation and deal with crises. You’ll study real case studies of diplomacy, war, and peacebuilding, while learning how to evaluate political systems across different regions. Optional modules let you tailor your focus — from European integration to global justice or environmental politics.

Year 3 – Year in Industry
This is where theory meets reality. Your placement year gives you the opportunity to work in a government office, NGO, think tank, or private organisation — applying your academic knowledge in a professional setting. You’ll build confidence, sharpen your communication and problem-solving skills, and return with valuable experience that gives you a competitive edge in the job market.

Year 4 – Advanced Research and Specialisation
Your final year is all about consolidating your learning and exploring the topics that inspire you most. Modules may include Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, Conflict Resolution, Regional Politics, or International Political Economy. You’ll also undertake a final-year research project or dissertation, allowing you to investigate a political issue you’re passionate about — with guidance from expert faculty who are active researchers in the field.

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate able to analyse complex political systems, interpret global events, design and conduct independent research, and communicate ideas clearly and persuasively — both in academic and professional contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While not a professional qualification, this degree integrates a year-long industry placement, giving you real-world experience and industry connections that prepare you for careers in diplomacy, public policy, journalism, or international organisations.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Kent ranks among the Top 35 UK universities for work experience opportunities (RateMyPlacement) and maintains a strong employability record — with over 84% of Politics and International Relations graduates in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (DiscoverUni 2024).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kent, studying Politics and International Relations isn’t just about reading theories — it’s about living them. From day one, you’ll be encouraged to connect classroom ideas to real-world experiences. Whether you’re interning with an NGO, joining a research group, or spending a full year working in industry, every part of your degree is designed to build confidence, teamwork, and professional awareness.

Here’s how Kent helps you turn theory into action:

Year in Industry Placement – The highlight of your degree is a full-year professional placement between your second and final year. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with government departments, NGOs, think tanks, or private organisations, applying what you’ve learned about politics and diplomacy in a real work environment.
Politics and International Relations Internship Module (POLI6750) – This credit-bearing module lets you combine academic study with work experience. You’ll spend time in an organisation connected to your interests while developing practical skills in research, communication, and problem-solving — all supported by Kent’s expert tutors.
Research-Led Learning – You’ll learn directly from lecturers who are active researchers in fields like conflict, security, diplomacy, and global governance. You’ll have opportunities to attend guest talks, participate in workshops, and engage with live research projects run by Kent’s School of Politics and International Relations.
Collaborative Projects and Simulations – Many classes involve teamwork and debates, giving you the chance to act as diplomats, policy analysts, or negotiators. These group projects mirror real-world political scenarios and help build your communication and leadership skills.
Library and Digital Resources – You’ll have access to Kent’s modern library, online databases, and digital research tools, helping you gather real political data and analyse it like a professional.
Specialist Research Centres – The School connects you to vibrant hubs like the Conflict Analysis Research Centre and Global Europe Centre, where students often take part in seminars and policy discussions on pressing global issues.

Each of these experiences ensures you graduate not just with academic knowledge, but with the professional insight, confidence, and global perspective that employers look for.

Progression & Future Opportunities

A degree in Politics and International Relations with a Year in Industry from Kent prepares you for a future where global awareness, communication, and leadership matter most. Graduates from this program stand out for their ability to think critically, research deeply, and adapt to fast-changing global challenges. Whether you see yourself shaping policy, representing your country abroad, or working with international organisations, Kent gives you the knowledge, confidence, and experience to get there.

Here’s how the university helps you build that future:

Dedicated Career Support – Kent’s Careers and Employability Service (CES) offers tailored one-to-one guidance, CV writing sessions, interview practice, and internship connections. You’ll also benefit from the School’s own career blog and mentoring network, linking you with alumni who now work in government, diplomacy, media, and NGOs.
Strong Employment Outcomes – Around 85% of Kent Politics and IR graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing their degree. The average starting salary is approximately £31,000, reflecting the program’s strong professional focus.
Industry & Public Sector Links – Thanks to Kent’s partnerships and its Year in Industry structure, students have worked with organisations such as government departments, international think tanks, and humanitarian NGOs. This practical exposure means you’ll graduate with real-world experience and professional references already in hand.
Career Flexibility & Global Reach – The skills you gain — from research and negotiation to critical analysis and writing — are transferable across industries. Kent graduates now hold positions in diplomacy, public service, consultancy, journalism, and international development.
Typical Graduate Roles:
- Policy Analyst / Civil Service Officer – shaping government or NGO policies on international, economic, or social issues.
- Diplomatic Officer / Foreign Service Attaché – representing national interests abroad and contributing to international relations.
- Public Affairs or Campaigns Consultant – managing advocacy, communication, and lobbying efforts for organisations and causes.
- Project or Programme Officer (NGOs / IGOs) – coordinating global development, human rights, or environmental projects.

Further Academic Progression:

After graduation, you can continue your studies to specialise further:

Pursue a Master’s degree such as an MA in International Relations, Public Policy, Conflict Analysis, or Development Studies, at Kent or another top university.
Broaden your perspective with cross-disciplinary options like International Law, Global Governance, or Diplomacy and Security Studies.
If you enjoy research, Kent also offers PhD opportunities in Politics and International Relations through its active research centres and academic mentorship.
Some graduates even combine their degree with a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to move into legal or policy-based legal careers.