Politics and International Relations

Politics and international relations together offer one of the most comprehensive frameworks for understanding the world as it actually operates. Politics examines how authority is organised and contested within states, how institutions function, how citizens participate and how ideological differences shape public life. International relations extends this outward, looking at how states, international bodies and non-state actors interact across borders, manage conflict, negotiate agreements and cooperate on shared challenges.

At Royal Holloway, this three-year full-time programme includes a sandwich year, a work placement and a year abroad. The sandwich and placement elements give you structured professional experience in political, diplomatic, policy, research or civil society contexts, where you can test your learning in real environments. The year abroad allows you to experience a different political and cultural setting, which deepens your comparative understanding of how political systems and international dynamics actually vary in practice.

You will study political theory and ideology, comparative government, global security, diplomacy, development and international political economy. The programme develops your ability to analyse political texts and events carefully, construct and evaluate competing arguments, and communicate clearly about complex questions in writing and discussion. Research skills and the capacity to work independently are built progressively through the degree.

Graduates from programmes in politics and international relations work in a wide range of fields. Common careers include the civil service, foreign and diplomatic services, international organisations, journalism, policy research, development agencies, NGOs, public affairs and political consultancy. The private sector also values graduates with strong analytical and communication skills in roles requiring understanding of geopolitical risk, regulation and governance.

Further study at postgraduate level in political science, international relations, security studies or public policy is a common route for those wishing to specialise.