International Relations

International relations is the academic study of how the world's political actors, including states, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, and increasingly non-state actors, interact in a world without a central governing authority. It asks why wars occur and how they end, how international cooperation is achieved despite the absence of global government, how international law and institutions shape behaviour, and how the dynamics of trade, migration, and environmental change cross national borders in ways that require collective responses. It is a discipline that combines theory with empirical analysis and draws on history, political science, economics, and law.

At the University of Southampton, this three-year, full-time programme takes you through both the theoretical frameworks that international relations scholars use to explain the world and the empirical study of real conflicts, institutions, and political processes. You will explore the causes of conflict, instability, and poverty, examining how democracy and justice are pursued in different political contexts and how global governance responds to challenges such as climate change, human rights abuses, and economic crises. The programme includes a sandwich placement year and work placement, giving you structured professional experience in a policy, research, or international affairs environment before you complete your degree.

A typical entry tariff of 136 points reflects a competitive but accessible admissions profile. Graduates from international relations programmes go on to careers in the civil service and foreign office, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, non-governmental organisations, law, and policy research. The analytical and communicative skills developed through the programme are valued across a very wide range of employers.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in international relations, security studies, development, or area studies, developing specialist expertise before moving into professional roles.