Politics and International Relations Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Course Overview - Politics and International Relations Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Politics does not just shape the world. It gives you the tools to change it. On this BSc Politics and International Relations degree, you will explore how power, ideas and global relationships influence the societies we live in.\
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You will build a strong foundation in political systems and international dynamics, while developing the skills to analyse, question and challenge the issues shaping today’s world. Your learning is informed by research from our Russell Group community, bringing current debates and real-world impact into your teaching.\
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Alongside your stu...
Politics does not just shape the world. It gives you the tools to change it. On this BSc Politics and International Relations degree, you will explore how power, ideas and global relationships influence the societies we live in.\
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You will build a strong foundation in political systems and international dynamics, while developing the skills to analyse, question and challenge the issues shaping today’s world. Your learning is informed by research from our Russell Group community, bringing current debates and real-world impact into your teaching.\
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Alongside your studies, you will have the opportunity to take part in dedicated career initiatives, including PAIR internships, where you can work with academics on live research projects. Ranked 11th in the UK for graduate prospects, this course is designed to help you move confidently into your future career.\
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Key features of the course\
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Build a strong foundation in British politics, comparative politics, political theory and research methods\
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Shape your degree by specialising in areas such as public opinion, migration and human rights, democratic innovation or political ethics\
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Broaden your perspective by choosing modules from across the Faculty of Social Sciences, including criminology, economics or statistics\
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Learn from world-leading researchers whose work informs your teaching and contributes to real-world change\
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Gain valuable experience through initiatives such as PAIR internships, working alongside academics on research projects\
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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 pastoral services if needed.\
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You will also benefit from regular contact with your lecturers through office hours, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and deepen your understanding. Academics bring experience from international organisations, think tanks and government, helping you connect your studies to future careers.\
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Further information\
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The department is based at Highfield Campus, our oldest and largest campus, close to Southampton Common. It is a vibrant and welcoming environment, bringing together teaching, research and student life, with social spaces, sports facilities and the Students’ Union all nearby.\
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This is a three-year BSc Politics and International Relations degree. You can find further details on our course page.
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-E93
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 to include 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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