University of Bristol United Kingdom

BSc 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 BSc Politics and International Relations at the University of Bristol is your gateway to understanding the intricate forces that shape our world, from the dynamics of political concepts and comparative government to the complex theories of international relations. You will develop the critical analytical skills necessary to dissect contemporary political challenges, examining power structures, policy-making, and the relationships between states and societies. This undergraduate degree is ideally suited for those driven to critically engage with global affairs and domestic governance, preparing you for impactful careers in public service, international organisations, or policy analysis.

This full-time, on-campus programme is structured over three years, offering a comprehensive journey through political science. You will build a foundational understanding in your first year with core units, then progress to specialised optional units in your second and third years, exploring areas such as political thought, global justice, and comparative political economy. You will hone essential research skills through dedicated units and culminate your studies with a significant dissertation, enabling in-depth research on a topic of your choice. You will graduate with a deep understanding of political systems and strong analytical capabilities, ready for diverse professional pathways.

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Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc Politics and International Relations program offers a comprehensive exploration of political thought, comparative government, and international relations theories. Students will engage with foundational concepts and contemporary global issues, developing analytical skills through a variety of mandatory and optional units. The curriculum progresses from introductory political thinking and concepts to advanced research and specialized topics, culminating in a dissertation in the final year.

1 Year 1 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Thinking politically Mandatory
Political concepts Mandatory
Theories of international relations Mandatory
Comparative government and politics: an introduction Mandatory
Issues in world politics Optional
The politics of the global south Optional
Choose open units Optional

2 Year 2 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Investigating society (politics) Mandatory
Conducting a research project using secondary data Optional
Contemporary international relations Optional
NGO development & practice Optional
The history of western political thought Optional
Nationalism and ethnic conflict in south asia Optional
Global justice Optional
Comparative and international political economy Optional
Modern british government and politics Optional
Development studies Optional
Co-operation and integration in europe Optional
The politics of sub-saharan africa Optional
Contemporary political theory Optional
Power politics and international relations of east asia Optional
Principles of quantitative social science Optional
The politics of the environment Optional

3 Year 3 (2024/25 entry cohort)

Dissertation Mandatory
Contemporary feminist thought: debates and issues Optional
The politics of gender Optional
States and markets Optional
The politics of post apartheid south africa Optional
Critical security studies Optional
Popular culture and world politics Optional
The political economy of china Optional
European foreign policy Optional
US foreign policy Optional
How to win a political argument Optional
Contemporary chinese foreign policy Optional
The politics of the contemporary labour party Optional
The politics of human rights Optional
Power, politics and food Optional
Northern ireland: conflict and resolution Optional
Gender and security Optional
Apocalypse or ecotopia? Optional
Politics of rebellion Optional
Populism Optional
Philosopher queens Optional
Britain and the eu: the politics of brexit Optional
Peacebuilding and post-conflict transition in latin america Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,468.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 103,405.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationClinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingMental Health & CounselingSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

United Nations

Why Study BSc Politics and International Relations at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol 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 BSc Politics and International Relations at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for this arrangement.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, accepted scores include TOEFL (overall 88), IELTS (overall 6.5), and PTE (overall 67). Ensure you achieve these scores in all relevant sections to qualify.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Political Analysts, International Relations Specialists, Diplomatic Service Officers, Policy Advisors, and Researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course offers a deep dive into the politics of individual countries and the relationships between states and communities. You'll gain essential research skills through a dissertation in your final year, focusing on topics like political theory and security.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Politics and International Relations program has an intake month in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time to secure your place.
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