BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations (with Foundation Year)

- Develop your knowledge and analytical skills to understand politics at domestic, regional and international levels- Join a department that has averaged over 95% overall satisfaction since 2013 in National Student Surveys of final-year undergraduate students- Benefit from small numbers in tutorials, which allow for rewarding discussions and debates and closer interaction with our expert staff- Pursue your own interests through a wide range of specialist optional modules, which cover topical issues such as The War on Terror, 21st Century Africa and The Ethics of the Post‐Crash EconomyHow on earth do we make sense of Brexit, Trump and terrorism? Why do countries go to war? And how can I actively participate in policy making?Our compelling course and enthusiastic team of expert lecturers will help you answer these questions and get to grips with the complexity of domestic, regional and international political life.Over three years, you gain a thorough overview of the key forces and trends driving politics in a wide range of areas such as the environment, human and animal rights, conventional and non-conventional security threats, diplomacy, strategy, China’s rise, the future role of the EU and the US.In today’s world of uncertain alliances and emerging popular movements, there is a new demand for experts who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to analyse global politics. You learn the various theoretical tools that are available to undertake such analyses and apply them to current political affairs.On our distinctive programme you are encouraged to become an independent, critical inquirer and aspirational learner. Each module is designed by members of staff to reflect current debates within their disciplines and is shaped by their areas of research expertise.The Foundation Year (first year of study) gives you the chance to commence your studies with us if you have not quite achieved the entry qualifications required or if you feel you would benefit from the opportunity to develop your study skills and subject knowledge prior to embarking on your degree. Through a range of engaging, small-group lessons and practical placements, you will be equipped with the academic, professional and personal skills to help you succeed at university. Modules will cover broad topics as well as an introduction to your chosen subject area. You will also have the opportunity to study alongside students undertaking a range of degree programmes.Year 1 (second year of study) gives you a solid grounding in global political studies, including an introduction to International Relations, British and American Politics, Human Rights in the Global Political Economy and Principles of Micro- and Macroeconomics.In Year 2 (third year of study), you study the institutions and concepts behind US and Russian foreign policies, Strategic and Security Studies, Southern Cultures, Political and Religious Themes in the Near and Middle East and International Law.Your final year features compulsory modules in Diplomatic Studies, China: 21st Century Challenges, Politics of International Courts, Human Rights in World Politics, and Politics, Energy and the Environment. Having built up an understanding of the core research methods and taught modules, you undertake a dissertation on a topic of your choice; this is a significant piece of independent research supported by expert supervision.Throughout Years 2 (third year of study) and 3 (fourth year of study) you can choose from a wide range of optional modules to explore your special interests. These may include The War on Terror, The Modern American Presidency, Sexual Violence and Politics, The Politics of Food Production, and The Ethics of the Post‐Crash Economy.