University of Bristol United Kingdom

BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad

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 BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad at the University of Bristol offers you a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping our world, from local governance to global power dynamics. You will explore foundational concepts in political theory, comparative government, and international relations, engaging with critical debates on issues such as the politics of the Global South and contemporary political thought. This undergraduate degree is ideal for intellectually curious students who aspire to analyse complex political landscapes and contribute to informed public discourse and policy-making. You will develop essential analytical and research skills throughout this engaging programme.

This full-time, four-year degree is delivered on campus, with your third year dedicated to an immersive study abroad experience, broadening your global perspective. You will progress through core units in political concepts and international relations, moving towards specialised topics and advanced research methods as you advance. A key feature of the programme is the opportunity to conduct a significant research project and complete an independent dissertation in your final year, allowing you to delve deeply into an area of personal interest. You will graduate with a robust understanding of political science and international affairs, prepared for diverse career paths in government, international organisations, NGOs, and further academic study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of politics and international relations, beginning with foundational concepts and theories in the first year. Subsequent years delve into comparative politics, contemporary global issues, and advanced theoretical debates, with a dedicated year abroad for immersive international experience. The final year culminates in a dissertation, allowing for in-depth research into specialized topics within the field.

1 Year 1 (2025/26 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 (2025/26 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
Democracy and US government Optional
The politics of sub-Saharan Africa Optional
Contemporary political theory Optional
Power politics and international relations of East Asia Optional
The politics of the environment Optional

3 Year 3 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Study abroad (year) Mandatory

4 Year 4 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Dissertation Mandatory
Contemporary feminist thought: Debates and issues Optional
The politics of gender Optional
States and markets Optional
The politics of gender 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
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 30,159.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,159.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,159.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,159.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 120,639.00

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

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationHealthcare Administration & ManagementMental Health & CounselingPublic Health & EpidemiologySpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

United Nations

Why Study BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad 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 with Study Abroad at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International students enrolled in degree courses 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?

For English language proficiency, applicants must meet specific test scores: TOEFL overall score of 88, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or a PTE overall score of 67.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Political Analysts, Diplomatic Officers, International Relations Specialists, Policy Advisors, or Campaign Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on the politics of individual countries and the relationships between communities globally. It includes an exciting year abroad, providing students the chance to engage with different cultures.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BSc Politics and International Relations with Study Abroad program is September, allowing students to start their academic journey at the beginning of the academic year.
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