Global Politics and International Relations with Foundation Year
Global politics and international relations is the study of how power, institutions, and interests interact at the international level, addressing some of the most pressing questions of our time: how do states manage conflict and cooperation, what role do international organisations play in global governance, how do climate change, migration, and inequality cut across national boundaries, and what are the prospects for international law and human rights in a world of competing powers? The discipline combines theoretical rigour with empirical engagement, developing the analytical tools to understand a complex and rapidly changing world.
At Birkbeck College, this four-year programme, which includes a foundation year, provides a strong foundation in international politics alongside an in-depth understanding of pressing global challenges. You will explore contending approaches to international relations, including realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical theories, as well as evolving regional and global political dynamics. The programme develops your verbal and analytical skills in a way that significantly expands your career options, and the foundation year ensures you are fully prepared for degree-level engagement with these questions.
Birkbeck's part-time tradition means the degree is accessible to those managing other commitments alongside their studies.
Graduates from global politics and international relations programmes go on to careers in the civil service and diplomatic service, international organisations, policy think-tanks, journalism and broadcasting, NGOs, international development, human rights organisations, and research. The analytical and communication skills the degree develops are also valued in financial services, management consultancy, and roles across a broad range of organisations that operate in international contexts. Further study at postgraduate level in international relations, international law, security studies, or public policy is a natural next step for many graduates.