International Relations and Politics

International relations and politics together address some of the most consequential questions of our time. International relations examines how states, international organisations, and non-state actors interact across borders, exploring the causes of conflict and cooperation, the role of international law and institutions, and the dynamics of trade, security, and diplomacy. Politics brings in the analysis of power within and between societies, examining ideologies, institutions, electoral systems, social movements, and the relationship between domestic policy and global affairs.

The two disciplines reinforce each other, because the decisions made within states shape the international system, and global forces shape what is possible within states.

At the University of East Anglia, this three-year, full-time programme explores how power operates both domestically and across global systems, with particular attention to the challenges that cross the boundary between the two: climate change, technological disruption, economic crises, and security threats that require responses at multiple levels simultaneously. You will study the major theories of international relations and political science alongside empirical case studies drawn from different regions and political contexts, developing your capacity to analyse complex situations, evaluate competing explanations, and construct well-supported arguments. A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects a competitive but accessible admissions profile.

Graduates from international relations and politics programmes go on to careers in the civil service and foreign office, international organisations, think tanks and policy institutes, journalism and broadcasting, law, diplomacy, and non-governmental organisations. The analytical and communication skills the degree develops are widely valued across the public and private sectors. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in international relations, security studies, development studies, or public policy, deepening their expertise in a particular region or thematic area before moving into professional roles.