Global Politics
Global politics is the study of power, conflict, cooperation, and governance at the international level, asking how states, institutions, and non-state actors shape the world we live in. From climate change and nuclear security to migration and trade, the pressing questions of our time are global in nature and require frameworks that go beyond the study of any single country. A degree in this field develops your ability to analyse international events critically, to understand competing theories of how the world works, and to engage with the empirical evidence that tests those theories.
The University of Exeter's three-year full-time Global Politics degree carries a typical entry tariff of 152 points. The programme includes an optional sandwich year, a year abroad option, and work placement opportunities, meaning you can gain substantial professional experience and extend your international perspective before you graduate. You will study international relations theory, comparative politics, global governance, the politics of security, environmental politics, and the role of international institutions.
Exeter is known for research-led teaching, and you will be encouraged to engage with contemporary debates at the frontier of the discipline, developing skills in analytical reasoning, evidence evaluation, and academic writing that are rigorous and transferable.
Graduates of global politics programmes go on to a wide range of careers. International organisations, government departments, foreign affairs, diplomacy, the armed forces, journalism, non-governmental organisations, think tanks, and the private sector all value the combination of analytical depth and global awareness the degree develops. Many students continue to postgraduate study in international relations, security studies, environmental politics, public policy, or law.
For those drawn to public service or international careers, this degree provides a strong intellectual foundation alongside the skills to communicate complex ideas clearly.