BA Hons Politics and International Relations

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about understanding how governments make decisions, how global conflicts arise, and how international organisations shape our world — this degree is designed for you. The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at the University of Nottingham helps you explore everything from political theory and public policy to diplomacy, global security, and human rights. You’ll gain the analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that open doors to careers in law, politics, journalism, international business, and beyond.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Building your foundation
Your first year introduces you to the ideas and systems that define politics and international relations. Through modules such as Introduction to Political Theory, Problems in Global Politics, Political Theory in Practice, and Understanding Global Politics, you’ll explore how power, institutions, and ideology shape real-world decisions. You’ll also develop practical data-analysis skills through Introduction to Political Data and Analysis, helping you interpret and evaluate political information effectively.

Year 2 – Deepening your understanding
In your second year, you’ll start applying your knowledge to real-world issues. Modules such as Global Security, International Political Economy and Global Development, and How Voters Decide take you into the complexities of modern politics — from the economics behind global trade to the psychology of political decision-making. You’ll also enhance your analytical skills through Analysing and Interpreting Political Data, learning how to use evidence and statistics to inform political arguments.

Year 3 – Specialising and leading your own research
Your final year is all about shaping your own intellectual path. You’ll choose from specialist modules such as The Middle East and the World, Secret Intelligence and International Security, or Advanced Quantitative Methods for Social Science. You’ll also complete a Dissertation, allowing you to research a topic you’re passionate about — whether it’s human rights, climate diplomacy, or global governance — under the guidance of experienced academics.

Focus Areas

Comparative politics, international relations, political theory, global security, quantitative & qualitative research methods.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with a deep understanding of how political systems function globally, strong research and data-analysis skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly — all essential for careers in government, media, law, and international development.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While not a formal professional qualification, this degree is designed to align with real-world political practice. You’ll have opportunities for study abroad, internships, and placements, gaining hands-on experience with government departments, NGOs, or policy think tanks.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Nottingham is ranked among the UK’s Top 20 for Politics (Complete University Guide 2026) and is globally recognised for its research impact. Around 86% of social sciences graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, earning an average starting salary of £29,000 — a reflection of Nottingham’s strong employer reputation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Nottingham, learning politics goes far beyond lectures and essays — it’s about experiencing how political ideas shape the real world. You’ll be encouraged to test theories through debate, data analysis, and real-world engagement, developing skills that are essential for a career in public policy, diplomacy, journalism, or international affairs. From study-abroad opportunities to internships and student-led initiatives, this degree gives you the platform to turn your classroom learning into hands-on experience.

Here’s how you’ll gain that practical edge:

Study abroad for a global perspective – Spend a semester or full year in one of Nottingham’s partner universities in Europe, China, or the USA, learning how politics works across different cultures and systems.
Internships and placements – Get valuable work experience through Nottingham’s strong links with NGOs, government bodies, think tanks, and local councils — all designed to help you apply your skills to real policy issues.
Research and data skills in action – Learn to analyse real political data and use research tools through the Methods and Data Institute, where you’ll work on projects that mirror what professionals do in policy and social research.
Engage in debate and diplomacy – Join societies like the Politics Society, Debate Society, or United Nations Society, where you can take part in model UN conferences, public speaking events, and leadership activities.
State-of-the-art learning spaces – Study in the Law and Social Sciences Building on University Park Campus, with access to world-class libraries, journals, and digital databases that keep you connected to global political research.

These experiences make Nottingham’s Politics and International Relations degree truly hands-on — preparing you to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead confidently in the ever-changing world of politics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

A Politics and International Relations degree from the University of Nottingham opens doors to exciting and meaningful careers across government, diplomacy, research, and the private sector. You’ll graduate with strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers in every industry value. Many graduates go on to become Policy Advisers, Parliamentary Assistants, Intelligence Analysts, or Public Affairs and Communications Officers — shaping policies and decisions that influence lives around the world.

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

Personalised career guidance – The Careers and Employability Service provides one-on-one mentoring, exclusive networking events, and tailored advice for careers in politics, public policy, media, and international organisations.
Strong employability outcomes – Around 86% of graduates from the Faculty of Social Sciences are in graduate-level work or further study within 15 months of graduation, earning an average starting salary of £29,000.
Top employer connections – Nottingham is the 3rd most targeted university by leading UK graduate employers (High Fliers 2025), giving students a real advantage in the job market.
Industry and policy partnerships – The School of Politics and International Relations has active collaborations with think tanks, research institutes, and government bodies, giving you valuable exposure to professional environments.
Long-term value – This degree provides transferable skills that remain relevant across law, journalism, business, and the public sector — making it a smart, future-proof investment in your career.

Further Academic Progression

After completing your BA, you can continue your journey with postgraduate study — such as an MA in International Relations, MSc in Public Policy, or even an MPhil/PhD in Politics. Many graduates also pursue professional training programmes with the Diplomatic Service, NGOs, or global institutions, taking their Nottingham education to the next level.