University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year at the University of Reading offers you a comprehensive exploration of the forces shaping our global society. You will investigate key theories of international relations, critically examine the politics of climate change, and delve into the complexities of contemporary democracy and political ideas. This undergraduate degree is designed for students eager to understand and address pressing global challenges, from political conflict and inequality to the evolution of political systems. You will develop a robust understanding of political science, preparing you to analyse and engage with the world’s most significant issues.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over four years, including a dedicated professional placement year that provides invaluable real-world experience. Throughout your studies, you will develop core academic and advanced competencies, preparing you for both further study and professional life. You will engage with diverse subjects, from comparative government and global order to political classics and contemporary strategy, culminating in a significant dissertation. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the analytical skills and practical insights necessary to pursue careers in government, international organisations, policy analysis, and the non-profit sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA program in Politics and International Relations offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, global dynamics, and international affairs. Across four years, students will delve into foundational concepts, contemporary issues, and advanced theories within politics and international relations, including comparative government, political ideas, and global order. The curriculum culminates in a dissertation and specialized modules, with a dedicated professional placement year providing invaluable practical experience in the field.

1 YEAR 1

International Relations
Politics of Climate Change
Introduction to Contemporary Democracy
Introduction to Political Ideas
Degree Core Competencies
British Society
War and Warfare
Inequality

2 YEAR 2

The Study of Politics
Comparative Government and Politics
Global Order
Political Classics
Advanced Degree Competencies
American Government and Politics
Political Thinking
Model United Nations
War and Peace since 1800
Work Placement and Project
Contemporary Strategy
Global Politics and History
The Media and Politics
British Government and Politics

3 YEAR 3

Professional Placement Year

4 YEAR 4

Dissertation
Dynamics of Civil Wars
International Terrorism
British Foreign and Defence Policy since 1945
War, Peace and International Ethics
Karl Marx
Risk
US Foreign Policy
The Politics of Nuclear Weapons
Politics and International Relations of the Middle East
Global Justice
International Political Economy
Feminism and Political Theory
Democracy, Division and Disagreement

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,516.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,516.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,516.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,516.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,065.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Research & DevelopmentAgricultural Services & ExtensionAgrochemical & Seed IndustryCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCommercial & Industrial ConstructionGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesLivestock & Animal HusbandryQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationReal Estate Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

Why Study BA Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading 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 Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with specific minimum scores for each. Students should prepare accordingly to ensure they achieve these scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, political consultants, international relations specialists, or government advisors.

What will I actually study in this course?

This BA Politics and International Relations degree addresses pressing issues like the climate emergency and explores ethical challenges in political authority. Students will learn from a highly-rated research environment, focusing on applied political theory and public policy analysis.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course begins in September. Ensure you apply well in advance to secure your place.
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