Politics and International Relations

Politics and international relations is for those who want to understand how power shapes lives and how the world's major challenges might be addressed through collective action. It is a discipline grounded in the conviction that rigorous analytical thinking about politics is both possible and necessary, and that understanding how decisions are made, how institutions work, and how different communities experience power and its absence is essential for those who want to contribute to a better world, whether that is in local communities, in national politics, or on the world stage.

At the University of Kent, this three-year, full-time degree develops your understanding of political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and the specific issues, from security and human rights to climate change and global inequality, that dominate contemporary political debate. You will develop the skills to analyse political situations with precision, to engage with competing theoretical perspectives, and to research and communicate complex arguments effectively. A typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects the inclusive and accessible character of this programme at a university known for its commitment to widening participation.

Graduates go on to work in the civil service, local and national government, international organisations, journalism and broadcasting, NGOs, humanitarian and development organisations, law, think tanks, public affairs, and management consultancy. The skills developed in this degree, including the capacity to analyse complex information, to reason about contested normative questions, and to communicate clearly in writing and speech, are valued across a remarkably broad range of professional contexts. Postgraduate study in politics, international relations, law, or public policy is a common and well-supported further step.