Politics and International Relations

Politics and international relations together provide one of the most powerful frameworks available for understanding the world as it actually is. Politics examines how power is organised, exercised, and contested within societies, addressing questions from national security and social inequality to constitutional design and democratic participation. International relations broadens that lens to the global level, examining the relationships between states, international institutions, non-governmental organisations, and other actors that shape the interconnected world we inhabit.

Together the disciplines equip you to think rigorously about the forces that drive events, from climate change and conflict to trade and migration.

At Durham University, this three-year programme develops a systematic and rigorous understanding of both disciplines, alongside the transferable skills of research, analysis, and communication that employers value. You can further tailor the course by adding a year-long work placement or an international study dimension, both of which are incorporated into the programme's structure alongside embedded work placement opportunities. A sandwich placement year and a year abroad are available features of the programme, allowing you to combine academic study with professional experience in a policy, government, or international organisation context.

Politics and international relations graduates go on to careers in the civil service, diplomacy, international organisations, think-tanks, journalism, policy research, law, NGOs, international business, and the charitable sector. The analytical and communication skills the degree develops are also valued in financial services, consultancy, and a wide range of private sector roles. Further study at master's or doctoral level is a common path for those wishing to specialise in areas such as security studies, international law, comparative politics, or European affairs.