International Politics with Placement Year

International politics is the study of how states, international organisations, and other actors interact on the world stage, how power is exercised and constrained in the international system, and how global events, from wars and revolutions to trade negotiations and climate agreements, can be understood through analytical frameworks drawn from political science, history, and international relations theory. It is a discipline that matters because the decisions made at the international level shape the conditions of everyday life for people across the world.

At Brunel University London, this four-year programme includes a placement year, giving you professional experience in an organisation working in international affairs, public affairs, journalism, policy, or a related field. You will study the major theories of international relations, the structure and functioning of global governance institutions, comparative foreign policy, international security, global political economy, and the specific dynamics of regional and bilateral relationships in different parts of the world. Brunel's London location gives the programme proximity to international organisations, foreign embassies, think tanks, and media organisations, all of which enrich the academic environment and placement opportunities.

Graduates of international politics programmes pursue careers in the civil service, diplomatic service, international organisations, journalism, NGOs, research institutes, think tanks, public affairs, and political parties. The analytical and communicative skills the degree develops are valued across many professional contexts, and the placement year is a significant asset in competitive graduate markets. Further study in international relations, political science, diplomacy, international law, or security studies is a well-established route for graduates who wish to develop specialist expertise or pursue research.