University of Hertfordshire United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at the University of Hertfordshire is designed for students eager to understand the complex forces shaping global affairs and domestic policy. You will explore critical contemporary issues, from the challenges to democracy and the dynamics of international conflict to the politics of multiculturalism and geopolitical shifts. This degree is ideal if you possess a strong interest in political science, international relations, and political sociology, and you are motivated to develop analytical skills to address real-world problems and contribute to informed public discourse.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, this undergraduate programme offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with modules covering topics such as critical perspectives on international relations, Westminster politics, and global governance, culminating in a significant Political Dissertation in your final year. Through case studies and analysis of current events, you will develop your research, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing you for diverse career paths in government, NGOs, journalism, policy analysis, and international organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems and global affairs. You will engage with core concepts such as democracy, international relations theory, and political thought, alongside contemporary issues like climate governance and geopolitical shifts. The curriculum also delves into British politics, the US political landscape, and the dynamics of global power, culminating in a dissertation and opportunities to specialize in areas like political communication, gender, or international security.

1 Compulsory

Democracy Today: Changes and Challenges Compulsory
Critical Perspectives on International Relations Compulsory
Radical Visions: Political Concepts that Changed the World Compulsory
International Conflict and Peace Compulsory
Westminster Under Strain: Change and Continuity in British Politics Compulsory
Understanding Politics Compulsory
Theory and Politics of Multiculturalism Compulsory

2 Level 5 Modules

Apocalypse Now? Governing the Anthropocene Compulsory
The End of the American Empire? US Politics Today Compulsory
Resource Power: The Politics of Development and Energy Compulsory
The Death of the Liberal Order: China, Russia, and Beyond Compulsory
Political Research in Practice Compulsory
Social and Spatial Inequalities Compulsory

3 Level 6 Modules

Political Dissertation Compulsory
Geopolitics in a Changing World Compulsory

4 Optional

Data, Media, and Political Communication Optional
Becoming the Other: Gender, Identity, Politics Optional
Decolonial Critical Thinking Optional

5 Optional

International Security Optional
Beyond the UN? Global Governance Today Optional
Advocating for Change - Global Political Sociology in Practice Optional
Populist Politics and Radical Democracy Optional
The Politics of Sport and Popular Culture Optional
Project Management Optional
Ethics and Psychology of Statecraft Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

9% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,551.00 USD 21,579.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,579.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,579.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 62,710.00 USD 64,739.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 1,407.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on De Havilland Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionFood Processing & ManufacturingForestry & LoggingHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareIT Support & Systems AdministrationReal Estate DevelopmentResidential Construction

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT)

MBDA

NHS

NHS England

National Farmers'​ Union

Why Study BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at University of Hertfordshire

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Fast Application response time

University of Hertfordshire typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Hertfordshire in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at University of Hertfordshire

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time while studying for a degree. Full-time work is permitted during breaks.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, a Duolingo overall score of 105 is needed, along with specific scores in comprehension, conversation, literacy, and production. Alternatively, you can meet the requirements through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE with specified minimum scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as political analysts, policy advisors, international relations specialists, and communications officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Why did Russia choose to invade the Ukraine? Why do countries struggle to cooperate over climate change? On our BA Politics and International Relations degree, you will study the impact of political concepts and decisions to understand the challenges that national and international politics faces in the 21st century.

This course will appeal to anyone with an interest and educational background in politics, sociology and history looking to deepen their understanding of the global

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program starts in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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