Politics with International Relations

Challenge the ways of the world on our politics degree. Explore global issues, shape debates, and gain experience via placements, volunteering, and projects.

Politics shapes every aspect of our lives, from climate action and migration to human rights, global conflict, the crisis of capitalism, and the future of democracy. On this course, you’ll explore the ideas, power struggles, and political movements influencing societies around the world while developing the critical thinking and practical skills employers value.

You’ll question assumptions, challenge dominant narratives, and debate some of the most pressing and divisive issues facing society today. Through interactive learning, live projects, and industry exposure, you’ll examine topics including inequality, populism, global justice, environmental change, and the rise of political extremism.

As part of this course, you'll:
• Discover how states, institutions, and global actors interact on the world stage



• Explore diplomacy, security, conflict, environmental politics, and active citizenship



• Gain insight into how international decisions affect people’s lives across the globe



Find out more
Immersive learning
Bring politics to life through guest speakers, live debates, volunteering, and opportunities to study abroad. You’ll engage with contemporary political issues beyond the classroom while building the confidence, experience, and global outlook needed for your future career.

You’ll also have opportunities to attend events such as our annual Politics and International Relations festival, hearing from academics, campaigners, policymakers, and industry professionals.

Building your future potential
From your first year, you’ll begin developing the professional skills and experience needed for a wide range of careers. You’ll have opportunities to take part in live employer-set projects, placement opportunities, and practical learning activities designed to boost your employability.

As part of the Active Citizenship module, you’ll complete a volunteering placement linked to causes that matter to you. Previous students have supported refugees learning English, worked with food banks, and contributed to international teaching projects.

Politics in practice
Apply your knowledge to real political and social challenges through practical projects and simulations. You could design a campaign or proposal for a non-government organisation, pitch ideas through mock interviews and lobbying exercises, or develop solutions to issues linked to globalisation, development, and social justice.

Research expertise
You’ll learn from a team of research-active academics whose work influences policy and social change across the world. Many members of the course team contribute to government-funded research and advise international organisations and policymakers, ensuring your learning reflects current political debates and real-world developments.

Why study the BA (Hons) Politics course (with pathways) at Leeds Beckett University?
- 94% of students on BA (Hons) Politics (with pathways) were positive about the way teaching staff explain things*


• Flexible pathways available, with the option to change direction after your first year to specialise in global development, international relations, or human rights



• Gain real-world experience with fantastic placement, volunteering, live project, and study abroad opportunities



• Hear from and connect with experts during guest lectures and the annual Politics and International Relations festival



• Gain global insights with research-led teaching informed by substantial political expertise



*National Student Survey 2025

Curiosity needs thinkers, makers, and dreamers. It needs you!

Leeds Beckett believes that when unlike minds come together, incredible things happen. That’s why they don’t just teach; they collaborate, challenge and inspire.

Their courses are meticulously designed, combining practical experience through work placements with a vibrant location at the heart of one of the UK’s largest student communities. Boasting a top 10 UK ranking for both course quality and student life (Uni Compare 2026) and a prestigious five-star QS rating, LBU sets the standard for excellence.

The university prioritises student wellbeing and stands among just seven universities nationwide to earn the University Mental Health Charter Award - proof of their unwavering commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing.

All of this is why 98% of Leeds Beckett students and graduates would recommend studying at the university to a friend (Uni Compare, 2026 reviews).