University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

International Relations and Politics BA (Hons)

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

Embark on the International Relations and Politics BA (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth, a degree designed to equip you with a deep understanding of the complex forces shaping our world. You will explore critical global issues such as international development, political thought, and the dynamics of comparative European politics, gaining insights into the institutions and ideologies that drive international relations and domestic policy. This programme is ideal for students driven by a desire to analyse contemporary challenges, from climate crises to foreign policy, and to develop the analytical skills necessary to navigate and influence an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over three years, offering a structured yet flexible curriculum. You will engage with modules covering key themes in international relations, political analysis, and global development, with opportunities to specialise in areas like foreign policy, autocracy and democracy, or the geopolitics of Africa. Throughout your studies, you will develop essential research skills, culminating in a significant dissertation or major project in your final year. You will graduate with a strong foundation for careers in diplomacy, policy analysis, international organisations, journalism, or further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) degree in International Relations and Politics offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems and global dynamics. You will analyze political landscapes in Britain and beyond, delve into key international relations themes, and examine global development. The curriculum also covers political thought, critical thinking, and professional identity, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as global capitalism, digital media, security challenges, and decolonial politics through optional modules and a dissertation or major project.

1 Year 1

Analysing Politics: Britain and Beyond Compulsory
Critical Thinking and Professional Identity Compulsory
Global Development Compulsory
Key Themes in International Relations Compulsory
Political Thought Compulsory

2 Year 2

Bending the Truth A Little? Researching Politics and International Relations Compulsory

3 Year 3

Global Capitalism: Past, Present and Future Compulsory

4 Optional modules

Dissertation (International Relations) Optional
Dissertation (Politics) Optional
Major Project Optional
Digital Media and Democracy Optional
NGOs and Social Movements Optional
Post-Brexit Politics Optional
Professional Development: Recruiters and Candidates Optional
Race, Rights and Development: Global Perspectives on Inequality and Social Justice Optional
Security Challenges in the Twenty-First Century Optional
Independent Project (International Relations) Optional
Independent Project (Politics) Optional
Decolonial Politics and Theory in International Relations Optional
France in the World: Global Actor or Global Maverick? Optional
International Security in the Asia-Pacific Optional
Looking for Utopia, Finding Dystopia? Ideas and Ideologies in the New Millennium Optional
Professional Experience Optional
Religion and Politics in Global Perspective Optional
The European Union: A Global Power in the Making? Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,586.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
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 Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Civil & Infrastructure EngineeringConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionHigher Education & UniversitiesProject & Construction ManagementReal Estate Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

University of Portsmouth

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

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth 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 International Relations and Politics BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, TOEFL scores need to be at least 91 overall with specific minimums in each section. IELTS requires a minimum overall score of 6.0, while PTE requires at least 61 overall.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible career paths include roles in local government, international diplomacy, and academic research.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree covers topics such as global migration and the rise of populist politics, equipping you with skills to enact change and tackle inequality. You'll also examine recent developments in British and international politics.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the International Relations and Politics BA (Hons) is September each year, allowing new students to start their academic journey in the fall.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️