Course summary

Overview Our BA International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year degree offers a powerful combination of academic understanding and professional experience in addressing today's most pressing global challenges. Politics examines how power operates within societies—how governments function, decisions are made, and citizens shape their communities. International Relations explores interactions between nations, global institutions, and transnational movements. Together, these disciplines provide complementary perspectives on issues that cross borders, from climate change to security threats. You'll study with specialists at the forefront of both fields, exploring political systems across major global powers including the United States, European Union, China and India. You'll investigate the causes of conflicts, potential resolutions, and how media influences political outcomes at all levels. Your studies will engage with profound questions about human rights, democratic participation, and global responsibilities. You’ll have a wealth of opportunities to gain first-hand experience of your subject too, whether through our regular politics visiting speaker events or the chance to experience the working of parliament first-hand. What distinguishes this programme is your placement year—a nine to twelve-month immersion in a relevant organisation of your choice. Whether working in government, an NGO, think-tank, or international body, you'll transform theoretical knowledge into practical skills while gaining insights no classroom can replicate. This real-world experience provides a significant advantage in today's competitive job market. Throughout your degree, both your personal adviser and our dedicated career specialists will help you secure the right placement to advance your specific interests and develop professional networks. Our graduates thrive across diverse sectors, equipped with a powerful combination of analytical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and hands-on experience that employers highly value. Disclaimer Course details are subject to change. You should always confirm the details on the provider's website: www.uea.ac.uk