BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations

At York, studying Politics with International Relations is about far more than lectures and reading lists — it’s about stepping into the real world of political decision-making, global diplomacy, and policy debate. From your first year, you’ll learn how to apply political theory to real-world issues, use data to understand how societies function, and engage directly with current political challenges. The course is designed to help you build practical skills and professional confidence alongside academic knowledge, preparing you for impactful careers in government, international organisations, media, or NGOs.

What makes this degree stand out is the way it blends theory with action. You’ll work closely with expert academics, collaborate with classmates on projects and debates, and even have the chance to gain work experience or study abroad. Along the way, you’ll use professional-level research tools, access world-class archives, and join a vibrant community focused on tackling global issues.

Here’s how York helps you put learning into practice:

• Research and data skills: Develop strong analytical abilities through modules like Applied Quantitative Analysis, where you’ll work with real datasets, learn statistical techniques, and build confidence using research software.

• Collaborative projects: Take part in seminars, workshops, and simulations that mirror real-life political negotiations and policy debates — helping you sharpen your teamwork, presentation, and argumentation skills.

• Placement year opportunities: Opt for a placement year to gain hands-on experience with organisations such as YouGov, government departments, or NGOs, applying your knowledge in a professional setting.

• Global exposure: Broaden your horizons with the chance to study abroad and explore different political systems, cultures, and international perspectives.

• Research-led teaching: Engage with the department’s active research clusters, attend guest lectures and “ideas labs,” and even contribute to ongoing projects alongside leading academics.

• Outstanding resources: Access the award-winning JB Morrell Library, the Borthwick Institute for Archives, and specialist collections to support your dissertation and independent research.

• Career-focused support: Benefit from tailored career services, networking opportunities, and workshops that link your studies to real-world career pathways.

• Vibrant student life: Get involved in debate societies, political campaigns, student media, and other extracurricular opportunities that enrich your experience and build your CV.

Graduating from York with a BA in Politics with International Relations opens doors to a truly global range of careers. Employers value the way this degree sharpens your analytical thinking, writing, and decision-making skills — all essential in government, diplomacy, NGOs, and policy roles. Many graduates go on to shape real-world change as policy analysts, diplomatic officers, political consultants, or programme managers in international organisations.

Here’s how York helps you get there:

• Dedicated careers support: You’ll have access to York’s Careers Service, which offers personalised career coaching, interview prep, skills workshops, and guidance tailored to politics and international relations careers.

• Practical experience built into your degree: You can choose to spend a year on a professional placement or study abroad, both of which give you an edge when applying for jobs. Internships with organisations such as the Houses of Parliament, the Mayor’s Office in New York, and YouGov are common stepping stones for York students.

• Strong graduate outcomes: York is ranked 9th in the UK for Graduate Prospects in politics, and graduates have gone on to roles with employers such as the Home Office, European Parliament, Goldman Sachs, and the World Food Programme.

• Real-world connections: You’ll benefit from a department whose academics regularly advise governments and international organisations — meaning their expertise and networks help open doors for you too.

• Valuable long-term recognition: As part of the prestigious Russell Group, a York degree carries real weight with employers and universities worldwide.

• Impressive career destinations: Alumni build careers in government, public affairs, global development, media, political risk analysis, and consultancy. Typical starting salaries for policy-related roles range from £25,000 to £35,000, with significant increases in experience — especially in international organisations and diplomatic services.

Further Academic Progression:
Your York degree is also an excellent foundation if you want to keep studying. Many graduates go on to master’s programmes in International Relations, Global Governance, Public Policy, Security Studies, or Development Studies, while others pursue PhDs or research degrees. You could also branch into specialised areas like diplomacy, conflict resolution, or data-driven policy analysis, combining your politics background with other fields such as law, economics, or data science.