Overview

It’s almost impossible to separate a single country’s politics from the interconnected world of international relations. So many of the world’s big issues – from economic crises, to terrorism, to climate change, to transnational crime – are problems for domestic governments and for the international community alike. In this course, you’ll explore the close links between domestic and international politics. You’ll be encouraged to think about who has power in the world today, and how to understand, explain and critique national and international events and processes.

About This Course

On your BA International Relations and Politics degree, you’ll engage with the key issues and debates in politics and international relations. Among others, these include: the rise and fall of powerful countries such as the United States, China, Russia or India; the causes and significance of different types of conflict; and the role of the media in shaping domestic politics and foreign policy. But International Relations and Politics is not only about issues – it’s also about ideas. What role do norms or values such as human rights or gender equality play in domestic and global politics? Do our moral responsibilities extend beyond the borders of the country into which we happened to be born? Why should you vote – or fight, or protest, or campaign? And what should you vote, fight, protest or campaign for: freedom, equality, justice, democracy? This course will provide you with the necessary knowledge and study skills to gain a sophisticated understanding of the interconnection between domestic and international politics. You’ll be taught by academic staff who are active in research and experts in their field. During the course, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in study trips, internships and placements in the UK and Europe. You’ll also have the option of a semester abroad in your second year.