BSc Politics and International Relations
University of Essex
Key Information
Campus location
Colchester, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
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Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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Introduction
BSc Politics and International Relations
Do you want to combine the study of politics, international relations with training in methods and techniques of political research? Are you interested in how the international system functions? Do you want to join one of the most prestigious government departments in Europe? Are you interested in the way in which political issues are interpreted and how groups and individuals try to shape government decisions? Our BSc Politics and International Relations equips you with the types of applied research and data analysis skills that are sought after by employers.
The study of international relations focuses on how the international system functions. It deals with the nature of changing relations between states and with non-state actors as well. In this program you study how politics takes place on a global scale, while also learning how political concepts and theories can be applied.
This course focuses on a broad spectrum of topics such as
- Foreign affairs
- Public policy
- Elections
- Conflict
- Terrorism
- Negotiation
- Political systems
The Program provides you with knowledge of the central theoretical and methodological issues in the study of politics. You gain the capacity for critical evaluation of theories and how to apply these perspectives to your own work. You learn how to undertake independent enquiries into political issues and know the appropriate methodologies to use. You also gain skills in written and oral communication, the use of information technology, the analysis of different forms of information and how best to work both independently and when in a group.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available, please visit the university website for more information.
Curriculum
Year 1
- Introduction to Politics
- Introduction to International Relations
- Co-Operation and Conflict
- Thinking Like a Social Scientist
- Truth, Justice, and The Nature of Politics
- Career Portfolio
- Doing Political Research
Year 2
- Conflict Analysis
- International Institutions
- International Relations: Theories and Approaches
- Quantitative Political Analysis
- Career Portfolio
- Issues in Politics: Final Year Project preparation
Final Year
- Advanced Quantitative Political Analysis
- Capstone Project
- Career Portfolio
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
All Essex Politics & International Relations graduates will have the distinction of a qualification from one of the world’s leading politics departments.
Our students are in demand from a host of employers in political parties, NGOs, international development, the civil service fast stream, management, journalism, police, armed forced, commerce, business, finance, teaching and graduate research.
Our notable alumni include the former President of Costa Rica and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, Dr Oscar Arias, and the Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon John Bercow MP, and our recent graduates have gone on to work for a wide range of high-profile companies including:
- The World Bank
- NATO
- Houses of Parliament Research Unit
- United Nations Development Program
- YouGov
- IMG Media
Our Employability module ensures that you are focused throughout your studies on how they are helping you to develop job-related skills and experience. We also work with the University’s Student Development Team to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.
Program delivery
BSc Politics and International Relations: 3 years
BSc Politics and International Relations (Including Year Abroad): 4 years
BSc Politics and International Relations (Including Placement Year): 4 years
- Teaching is arranged to allow a lot of freedom in how you organise your learning experience
- Lab sessions allow you to improve your technical research skills
- Opportunities to gain work experience on placements and internships