BSocSc Politics and International Relations

At Manchester, studying Politics and International Relations goes far beyond lectures. You’ll be encouraged to put your knowledge into practice through creative assessments, collaborative projects, and opportunities that connect your learning to real-world political debates. From day one, you’ll develop the confidence to analyse, argue, and communicate like a professional working in the field.

And the best part? You’ll be doing this in one of the UK’s most vibrant research environments, with access to outstanding facilities and a lively academic community. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Learn by doing – instead of only traditional essays, you’ll write policy briefs, produce podcasts, create blogs, prepare presentations, and even carry out field reports.

• Join a thriving community – take part in the annual undergraduate conference, contribute to the student-run Politics journal, and attend the School’s seminar series where leading thinkers share their work.

• Boost your career prospects – past students have secured Q-Step summer placements and internships, gaining real-world experience in policy, data analysis, and research.

• Go global – the course offers study abroad opportunities that let you experience politics in different countries and cultures first-hand.

• Tap into world-class research – you’ll be surrounded by specialist centres like the Manchester International Law Centre and the Political Economy Centre, where cutting-edge ideas are debated every day.

• Study in inspiring spaces – from the University’s main library, one of only five National Research Libraries in the UK, to the historic John Rylands Library, you’ll have access to resources that few students in the world can match.

• Get involved outside class – many students volunteer or take part in community projects across Manchester, applying what they learn to make a difference beyond campus.

A Politics and International Relations degree from Manchester opens doors to exciting and varied careers. Many graduates go into roles like policy analyst, public affairs consultant, international development officer, or journalist. The degree equips you with the research skills, communication ability, and global outlook that employers truly value.

And because you’ll be studying at a university ranked among the most targeted by top UK graduate employers, your career prospects are especially strong. Here’s how Manchester supports your next steps:

• Dedicated career support: You’ll have access to the Careers Service throughout your degree and for two years after graduation, offering everything from CV reviews and mock interviews to employer networking events.

• Graduate outcomes: Around 75% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with an average starting salary of about £25,000, rising to over £30,000 within a few years.

• Professional links: The course is connected to leading organisations such as the Political Studies Association and the European Consortium for Political Research, giving you exposure to real-world research and professional networks.

• Long-term recognition: A Manchester degree carries prestige. As a Russell Group university, it’s well regarded by employers across politics, public policy, NGOs, and international organisations.

• Career destinations: Alumni have gone on to roles such as government analysts, communications managers, researchers in global think tanks, and PhD students in international studies.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to continue your studies, you could move into a Master’s in Politics, International Relations, Development Studies, or Communication Science, either at Manchester or internationally. Many graduates also progress to research degrees such as an MPhil or PhD, which can lead to academic careers or senior roles in policy-making and international organisations.