Politics and International Relations (with Foundation Year) BA (Hons)

This is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study and leads directly into the degree course. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence, before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.

Are our political systems and institutions fit for purpose? Has democracy failed? Why do states go to war? Why aren’t we working together to combat climate change? Why isn’t poverty a thing of the past? Why isn’t world peace achievable? Is it time for a new world order?

If these questions excite and entice you, this BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations degree is for you. These are just some of the topics and issues you will engage with. At Cardiff Met, you will explore politics and international relations on a local, national and global level. Engaging with some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The degree has a strong global outlook whilst also demonstrating the significance of local politics and policy. An exciting feature of our degree is a focus on, and engagement with, Welsh Parliament throughout, utilising our close proximity to the Senedd and policymakers in Wales.

You will have the opportunity to apply your learning to real-life political issues and develop your own research interests and skills that will allow you to understand and explain a vast range of complex topics including conflict, justice, freedom, power, and equality.

The degree is designed to encourage innovation and creativity in interrogating contemporary challenges and processes in politics and international relations, whilst also preparing you for employment in an ever-changing world. There are opportunities to develop employability and sector links embedded throughout the degree. Via our authentic assessment methods, you’ll develop a portfolio of skills that are highly sought after by employers, such as writing press releases, policy reports and working to ‘live briefs’ set by industry.

On completion, you will have a questioning mindset, a global perspective, and a research-informed approach to the field of politics and international relations and be fully equipped to contribute and make a difference in the community, workplace, society and beyond.

There’s still time to secure an award-winning university experience at Cardiff Met, ranked a top 3 Welsh university (Uni Compare Rankings 2026).

Whatever your goals, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential through expert teaching and a supportive environment. Gain real-world experience via placements and live briefs, and graduate with the skills to make a positive impact.

Professionally accredited courses prepare you for the world of work, alongside year-round careers support, entrepreneurship opportunities and options to study abroad.

Cardiff is also one of the UK’s most affordable cities (NatWest Student Living Index 2025), offering vibrant food, nightlife, green spaces and more on a student budget.

Into sport? Cardiff Met is a leading UK university for student sport, supporting both academic and athletic success.