International Relations Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Course Overview - International Relations Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Is the world becoming more unstable? How do nations cooperate, compete and resolve conflict? On this BSc International Relations degree, you will explore the forces shaping global politics and the relationships between states, institutions and societies.\
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You will examine how power, democracy and justice operate on an international scale, and how global challenges influence political decision-making. From contemporary conflicts to long-term political change, you will learn to analyse the issues shaping today’s world.\
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Your studies will develop your ability to thi...
Is the world becoming more unstable? How do nations cooperate, compete and resolve conflict? On this BSc International Relations degree, you will explore the forces shaping global politics and the relationships between states, institutions and societies.\
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You will examine how power, democracy and justice operate on an international scale, and how global challenges influence political decision-making. From contemporary conflicts to long-term political change, you will learn to analyse the issues shaping today’s world.\
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Your studies will develop your ability to think critically, build arguments and carry out independent research. Alongside core topics in international politics and theory, you will have the flexibility to explore areas that match your interests.\
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You will graduate with the skills and perspective to pursue careers across politics, policy and beyond. Southampton is ranked 11th in the UK for graduate prospects in politics and international relations (Complete University Guide 2026).\
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Key features of the course**\
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Develop a deep understanding of international political systems, theories and contemporary global issues\
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Build analytical, critical thinking and independent research skills valued by employers\
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Shape your degree with optional modules, exploring topics such as UK, EU or US politics, or branching into areas like criminology, economics or ethics\
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Learn from research-informed teaching that reflects current debates and developments in global politics\
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Prepare for a wide range of careers in areas such as government, international organisations, think tanks and journalism\
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Student support\
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Your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) will support you throughout your time at Southampton, offering guidance on your studies, career planning and access to wider support services when needed.\
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Further information\
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Graduates from this course go on to roles in national and international political institutions, the civil service, advocacy organisations, think tanks and the media, applying their knowledge in a wide range of global contexts.
Course Information
1 option available
Some courses vary and have tailored teaching options, select a course option below.
Course Details
Information
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
3 Years
Start Date
2027-09-20
Campus
Main Site - Highfield Campus
Application Details
Provider Details
Codes/info
Course Code
A23-D64
Institution Code
S27
Points of Entry
Year 1
Entry Requirements
A level
Typical offer: ABB If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer: BBB plus grade A in the EPQ
UCAS Tariff
Not accepted
Scottish Higher
We normally consider applicants who offer at least 1 Advanced Higher. Applicants presenting with only Highers will be considered on a case by case basis. Where Highers are taken over two years it might be expected that higher grades are achieved, particularly in any specific subjects required. For example, S5 – S6 (2 years): AABBB (A in specific subject) or S6 (1 year): ABBBB (A in specific subject). Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4"
Pearson BTEC Diploma (QCF)
DD in the BTEC Diploma plus B grade from one A-level
Access to HE Diploma
offer-distinction: 30.0, offer-merit: 15.0
Typical offer: 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit
GCSE/National 4/National 5
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C
Scottish Advanced Higher
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4
Pearson BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF)
DDM in the BTEC Extended Diploma
Pearson BTEC Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB from two A levels
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus B from one A-level
Extended Project
The University of Southampton values the Extended Project Qualification. Applicants taking the EPQ in addition to three A levels, may also be made an alternative offer one grade below the standard offer, conditional on an A grade in the EPQ. For more information on the University of Southampton’s EPQ Admissions Policy, please see our EPQ Admissions Policy webpage.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
Typical offer: Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP): Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
ABB from three A levels or AB from two A levels and B from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
DDM in the BTEC National Extended Diploma
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016)
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AB from two A levels
Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal
Typical offer: D3 M2 M2 in three Principal subject Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer
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Fees and funding
| Region | Costs | Academic Year | Year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU, International | £0 | 2026/27 | Year 1 | |
| Channel Islands, England, Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Republic of Ireland | £10,050 | 2026/27 | Year 1 |
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