Politics and International Relations

Are you interested in how global problems happen and what potential solutions there could be? Do you wonder why and how governments and international organisations make the decisions they do? Our politics and international relations course helps you understand these types of challenges and more.

Through critical reading and discussion, you will develop your knowledge of the contemporary world at local, regional and global levels. In addition, this politics degree will give you transferable skills in problem-solving and the ability to think independently.

On graduation, you will have practical research capabilities and knowledge that you can apply in a number of professional settings in the political sphere and beyond.

As a member of United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI), we are fully committed to supporting and contributing to UNAI's values by undertaking student-led activities related to the ten UNAI Principles.

What you'll study

On this politics and international relations degree, you will study in detail the workings of government and the realities of global geopolitics.

You will examine how political institutions interact with the societies they govern and how values and resources are allocated in various contexts, both nationally and internationally. Throughout your studies, you will gradually develop your critical reading and debating skills.

Simulated diplomatic situations are a core element of the course, and by taking part, you will enhance your abilities to build arguments successfully and work as part of a team. These simulations also allow you to put what you have learned in your theory-based modules into practice.

In the final year, you will produce a dissertation in which you investigate an area of interest related to politics and international relations.
This is your chance to demonstrate your practical research skills as well as your grasp of relevant theories and current issues.

It's not too late to study at London’s 2nd highest-rated university for student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2026).

UWL's world-class facilities and outstanding teaching will give you all the tools you need to succeed. Musicians can rehearse in performance rooms, audio recording spaces and a 200 seat black box studio. Pilots can brave the storm in the Boeing 737 flight simulator. Lawyers can perfect their argument in the mock courtrooms, and chefs can whip up delicious creations in industry-standard kitchens and serve real customers at Pillars, the student-run fine-dining restaurant located on campus.

You'll also be learning in one of the world's best student cities (2026 QS Best Student Cities) - think Saturday afternoons in Covent Garden, study sessions in the British Library and live concerts in the O2 arena. With scholarships and bursaries reserved for Clearing applicants, no ambition is out of reach!