International Relations BA

At Leicester, studying International Relations isn’t just about theories and textbooks — it’s about putting ideas into action. From day one, you’ll gain hands-on experience through projects, presentations, research work, and even real-world placements. The course is built to help you apply what you learn in practical ways, giving you the skills and confidence to work in policy, diplomacy, journalism, or global organisations after graduation.

Here’s how Leicester brings your learning to life:

• Politics in Action – Work Experience Module – In your second year, you can choose a specialist module that places you directly in a real working environment, helping you apply classroom learning to real-world political and policy challenges.

• Collaborative Projects & Presentations – Many modules involve group work, debates, and policy briefings where you’ll develop vital skills in teamwork, negotiation, and persuasive communication.

• Independent Research & Dissertation – In your final year, you’ll carry out an original research project on a topic you’re passionate about, giving you a taste of the kind of work done by policy analysts and researchers.

• Internship & Placement Support – Leicester’s dedicated Careers and Employability Service helps you secure internships, placements, and part-time roles, building your CV and expanding your professional network while you study.

• Access to Leading Research & Expertise – You’ll be taught by experts involved in cutting-edge international research and benefit from their insights, projects, and global connections.

Graduating with a BA in International Relations from Leicester opens doors to exciting careers around the world. You’ll leave with strong analytical, research, and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of how global politics works — skills that employers in government, NGOs, media, diplomacy, and business value highly. Whether you want to shape foreign policy, work on international development projects, or influence global conversations, this degree will give you the tools to make a real impact.

Typical career paths for graduates include:

• Diplomatic or Foreign Service Officer – representing your country abroad and helping shape international policy.

• Policy Analyst / Advisor – working with governments, NGOs, or think tanks to tackle major global challenges.

• International Relations Journalist / Correspondent – reporting on global affairs and shaping public understanding.

• Public Affairs or Communications Specialist – leading campaigns and strategic messaging for organisations and institutions.

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

• Dedicated Careers & Employability Service – offers one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, and access to MyCareers, an online platform connecting you with internships and graduate jobs worldwide.

• Politics in Action Module – an optional work experience module in your second year that lets you apply your knowledge in real-world political and policy environments.

• Strong employment outcomes – around 85% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduation.

• Competitive graduate salaries – Leicester graduates in Politics and International Relations earn around £26,500 on average within 15 months, with earnings typically growing above the sector average five years after graduation.

• Global employer connections – graduates have gone on to work with prestigious organisations such as the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Home Office, UN Migration Agency (IOM), Ministry of Defence, and Risk Advisory Group.

• Reputation that stands out – Leicester has a Gold rating in the UK Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023) and ranks among the top 30 universities in the UK for politics and international relations (Guardian University Guide 2025).

Further Academic Progression:
Many students choose to continue their studies with a master’s degree in areas such as International Relations, Global Security, Development Studies, or Public Policy. Others progress to doctoral research (PhD) and pursue academic or research careers. Postgraduate study further enhances your expertise and opens doors to senior roles in government, diplomacy, academia, and international organisations.