University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year

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

Course Overview

The BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year at the University of Reading is your gateway to understanding and shaping the complex dynamics of global affairs. This undergraduate degree is ideal for international students seeking to deepen their knowledge of political theory, comparative government, and the politics of climate change, preparing you to critically analyse contemporary international order and the challenges of democracy. You will explore core concepts in political ideas, international relations, and contemporary political issues, building a robust foundation for advanced study and a career dedicated to addressing pressing global challenges.

This comprehensive four-year programme, studied full-time on campus, begins with a dedicated foundation year designed to equip you with essential academic and study skills before progressing to the three-year Bachelor's degree. You will engage with compulsory modules such as 'Study of Politics' and 'Global Order', alongside a wide array of optional subjects like 'War and Peace since 1800' or 'International Terrorism'. Throughout your studies, you will develop critical analytical abilities, culminating in a final-year dissertation, preparing you for diverse career paths in government, international organisations, journalism, and policy analysis.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA Politics and International Relations program offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems and global affairs, beginning with foundational concepts in international relations, contemporary democracy, and political ideas. Subsequent years delve into comparative government, the global order, and advanced political theory, culminating in a dissertation. The curriculum provides a robust understanding of political dynamics, both domestically and internationally, preparing students for diverse career paths.

1 YEAR 1

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

2 YEAR 2

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

3 YEAR 3

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

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,130.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,521.00

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

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agrochemical & Seed IndustryConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionFisheries & AquacultureLivestock & Animal HusbandryProject & Construction ManagementQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationReal Estate DevelopmentSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

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

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a degree program, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. During breaks, you can work full-time without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English language requirements. For instance, an overall IELTS score of 5.5 is required, with no individual component below 5.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Political Analyst, International Relations Specialist, Government Affairs Consultant, and Policy Advisor.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program enables you to tackle pressing global issues and explore ethical dilemmas in politics. It includes a foundation year to prepare international students for undergraduate study in politics and international relations.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA Politics and International Relations with International Foundation Year is September each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place.
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