Undergraduate Course
Politics and International Relations BA (Hons)
Explore the global political landscape and confront urgent international concerns by studying Politics and International Relations.
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/2019-courses/Law.jpg)
In an increasingly globalised world, politics and international relations tackle pressing contemporary issues such as state power, international security, human rights and global justice. This degree will give you both employable skills and valuable, relevant knowledge about global politics.
95% Politics students responded with a 95% positivity score for how often their course challenged them to achieve their best work. (National Student Survey 2023)
90% Politics students responded with a 90% positivity score for how good teaching staff are at explaining things. (National Student Survey 2023)
York campus
- UCAS code – L220
- Duration – 3 years full time, 6 years part time
- Start date – September 2024, September 2025
- School – School of Humanities
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
Discover Politics and International Relations
Dr Alex Beaumont, Senior Lecturer in Politics, introduces us to Politics and International Relations at York St John University.
Course overview
When you study on this course we will introduce you to the major historical and contemporary figures, institutions, events, and processes behind national and international politics. You will also learn to analyse these processes using the theories and concepts that form the basis of these academic subjects, and engaging with the latest research in these areas. While you will also learn about regional and national politics, in choosing to combine Politics with International Relations you will take a largely global perspective.
Some of the topics you will investigate include:
- Democracy and authoritarianism
- Political parties
- Political economy
- International security
- International organisation and the future of global cooperation
- How states interact with each other, and the changing role of the state
- How states respond to inequality, global health and threats to national security
Through this you will learn to explain the historical drivers of social change, analyse the current political landscape, and respond to the challenges which will shape our political future.
There are many ways you can take your learning beyond the classroom, including opportunities to:
- Take part in local, national and international field trips
- Undertake a work experience project
- Study abroad in your second year
- Hear from visiting speakers with many different specialist areas of expertise
- Attend conferences, seminars, workshops and events
Course structure
Year 1
Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. How many modules you take each semester will depend on whether you are studying full time or part time. You must study at least 1 module from each subject every semester.
In your first year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
This module is your introduction to the academic study of Politics. Through it you will become familiar with basic terms, concepts, methodologies and issues in the study of politics, which will prepare you for the rest of your degree. We will explore the diverse definitions and the scope of politics, and discuss what politics means to you. We will also introduce you to some of the essential skills needed to succeed a degree level, including academic writing, researching and referencing.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
This module will introduce you to the comparative approach to modern politics. We will cover theoretical and methodological approaches, giving you an understanding of these political analysis tools. You will then apply these to both authoritarian and democratic regimes. We will explore a range of political institutions and processes, and move beyond studying these in isolation to develop the analytical skill of comparison.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Through this module you will gain a comprehensive historical overview of world politics and the most important themes and concepts needed to study it. This will provide you with a strong foundation from which you can build your knowledge as your progress through your degree. You will also develop the essential skills for engaging with academic literature, constructing effective arguments and working within conceptual frameworks.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will examine the contemporary British state and its relationship with society, considering the impact of traditional state institutions and practices. We will also take a historical perspective, acknowledging that the political present cannot be fully understood without analysing the past. Studying political economy will also help you to understand the nature and impact of economic policy.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Security studies is an essential part of international relations, and it involves a range of approaches, traditions and debates. On this module you will develop the skills needed to critically analyse and reflect on the historical development of security threats and challenges. This will involve focusing on specific case studies, debating and discussing the policy decision making they prompted.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Explore the policies and academic practices of international development as you engage in key debates surrounding issues of global inequality and the politics of foreign aid. By delving in to both historical change and contemporary issues, you will broaden your understanding of globalisation, development and inequality. You will also engage in debates, which develop transferrable skills including communication, organisation and planning.
Year 2
In your second year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 1 compulsory module and 2 optional modules in semester 1
- 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
International Relations addresses the fundamental nature of power in the international system. The approaches used in this module are essential for understanding regional, international and global events. We will introduce you to some of the major theories in international relations, such as:
- Realism
- Liberalism
- Neoliberalism
- Marxism
- Critical theory
- Constructivism
- Feminism
- Postcolonialism
Using case studies and coverage of historical and contemporary events, you will consider how you can apply these theories to developments in state relations.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Democracy is the dominant form of political organisation around the world, and to study Politics it is essential to fully understand how it is put into practice. On this module you will explore the development and evolution of democracy. This includes discussions on the concept and various models of democracy, as well as the institutions (executives, legislatures, judiciaries) and processes (electoral and party systems) that rely on it. The module includes a comparative analysis of democratic states throughout the world, examining both established democracies and democracies in transition.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module focuses on the relationship between international politics and economics. You will learn about power structures within the contemporary global economy, and consider who the winners and losers are within these interactions. You will also reflect on how your everyday financial decisions feed into the broader dynamics of the global economy, considering how your choices affect others and reinforce existing power structures.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will focus your studies on a particular geographical region, for example, East Asia, South America, Africa or the Middle East, investigating important relationships, movements, dynamics and political figures within this region. Using primary and secondary sources, you will assess historical developments and contemporary issues, as well as considering the impact of recent global developments on the region, such as climate change, technology and changing identities. This will help you to develop an understanding of regional politics within a global context.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Our politics degree teaches you to understand not just political concepts, but also how politics is studied and researched. This module will give you an overview of the different theoretical and methodological approaches used to study the political world.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will have the chance to take part in work related learning and explore the possibilities your degree will offer for your career. We will help you to transfer the skills and knowledge you acquire throughout the course to the workplace. You can choose to complete a minimum of 10 days work experience, or focus on a work related project. It is your responsibility to find your placement, with advice on how to do this included within the module.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module focuses on the 2 main parties of government of recent years, Labour and Conservative. There will also be a consideration of nationalist parties at the devolved and national levels, as well as the rise and influence of smaller, issue-based political parties. You will also examine the fundamental function of MPs as representatives, and consider notions of good political behaviour in light of a variety of political scandals.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module explores key debates about the changing nature of security, the causes of conflict, the rise of new security threats, and the ways states work try to limit insecurity. We will also consider how a specific issue is designated as a security threat, what the main threats to security might be in the near future, and how they might be addressed. The topics we cover may include:
- Environmental security
- Cyber security
- Terrorism
- Drones and drone warfare
- Health security
- Intelligence and surveillance
- Sexual violence in armed conflict
Year 3
In your third year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- A dissertation module studied across semesters 1 and 2
- 2 optional modules in semester 1
- 2 optional module in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Modules
Credits: 40
Compulsory module
This year long module will involve working independently to research a topic of your choice within the field of Politics. It is the culmination of your studies, and your chance to explore a topic that you are passionate about. You will plan, research, and write a piece of work that demonstrates your ability to structure a sustained argument, research effectively and think independently. A dissertation supervisor will help you define and develop your project throughout the year.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module focuses on the infrastructure of the British state, as well a the structures and processes of governing. You will explore the history of delegated governance in the UK, examining the theoretical and conceptual perspectives that have attempted to explain delegation. You will also address some of the fundamental issues surrounding delegation in the UK, such as:
- Autonomy and control
- Accountability
- Patronage
- Devolution
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module explores the persistence of authoritarian rule in the 21st century. You will study the characteristics of authoritarian systems, along with the structures, actors and actions that foster and maintain them. You will also consider the place of authoritarian systems in international politics, and examine their relationships with totalitarianism and democracy. This will involve using case studies to illustrate and analyse theoretical and conceptual approaches to authoritarianism.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will explore in detail the institutions, structures and processes of global governance. In particular we will focus on the institutions of the United Nations, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. We will also cover regional organisations such as the European Union, and other intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations. Global issues will be examined to analyse the work of these institutions, which may include:
- Human rights
- International terrorism
- Global inequality
- The environment
- Conflict and peace
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will explore how longstanding questions about social and distributive justice are of increasing concern at a global level, for both philosophers and activists. We will confront fundamental questions of justice, and examine how approaches to justice have evolved in social, international and global contexts. We will cover various issues within the scope of global justice, including:
- Human rights
- Humanitarian intervention
- Poverty and economic inequality
- Gender
- Natural resources
- Migration
- The environment
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will explore the politics of the Middle East, beginning with the historical context. You will go on to examine internal and external factors affecting the region, such as rising Arab identity and nationalism, and a rejection of colonial rule. Discussions will cover contemporary issues such as the regional economy, the role of Islam, conflict, women, dictatorship and democracy. You will also examine the Middle East from an international relations perspective, focusing on the interests of the international community in the area, particularly the USA and Russia.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will explore how policy making takes place in exceptional times. Each week we will examine a case study of a political crisis, considering how it unfolded and evaluating the responses, using these to discuss ideas of blame, agenda setting and crisis resolution. Drawing on experience you will have gained in previous modules of designing policy briefs and political party manifestos, you will build transferable skills in prioritisation and working under pressure.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Global health concerns are becoming increasingly central to ongoing debates about the social impact of worldwide economic and environmental change. During this module you will learn about contemporary health issues from the point of view of both international relations and ethics, and explore the connections between these approaches.
You will study:
- Infectious and non infectious diseases
- The relationship between war and disease
- The role of the World Health Organisation
- Health in foreign policy
- Responses to global health emergencies
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will examine complex issues and debates concerning the challenge of international peacekeeping. We will focus on the Responsibility to Protect approach, which the United Nations (UN) developed in response to atrocities in the 1990s. This new approach laid out the responsibilities of its member states to protect people across the globe from genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Throughout the module you will engage with important questions about when and how the UN should intervene in conflict and the moral and legal authority with which they do so.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Issues of security and conflict affect different lives in different ways, and gender is one of the biggest factors determining how someone may experience violent conflict. On this module you will study the latest theoretical innovations in feminist and gender scholarship, and relate it to discussions about international conflict, peacebuilding and reconstruction. You will challenge preconceptions and reflect on ethical questions surrounding gender, power and violence from various feminist perspectives. We will use different academic subjects to analyse the topic, studying theories from sociology, gender studies and anthropology alongside international relations.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Technological change and visual communication increasingly frame how global politics is perceived and enacted, from social media and video games to terrorist recruitment campaigns and drone warfare. On this module you will consider how changes in information technology shape our perceptions of international events and our understanding of them, in an increasingly image focused world. We will also interrogate the complex power relations that decide whose stories and experiences are given agency and expression. We will take an interdisciplinary approach to this question, using approaches from sociology, history and media studies.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will reflect on what it means to be a global citizen, and how we can think in global terms about our obligations and responsibilities to others. This raises further questions around what values we wish to uphold, how we should exercise political and civic rights, and to whom we are responsible. This will involve reflecting on your own experiences of citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world, considering the global ethical implications of your own decisions and actions. Through these discussions you will develop skills and knowledge that are important for lifelong participation in your community as a responsible global citizen.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
We use a range of teaching styles and settings to support your learning. This will include:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
- Events
- Field trips
Alongside your timetabled contact time, you will be expected to study independently. This involves reading around your subject and engaging with various academic resources. This will ensure that you get the most out of your degree, as well as building valuable time management skills.
Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.
Assessment
You will be assessed entirely through coursework, with no exams. We are committed to authentic, relevant assessment. Authentic assessments mean your work is kept relevant and reflects workplace tasks or further study. Assessments include:
- Essays and portfolios
- Individual and group presentations
- Video presentations
- Posters
- Group reports
- Book/article reviews and study reports
Feedback is essential in identifying what you have done well and how you can improve. You will receive detailed feedback on your final assessments for each module, as well as on formative assessments which help you to improve as you learn.
Career outcomes
Your future with a degree in Politics and History
This degree could lead you to a career directly related to Politics, such as working in local government or the Civil Service, or it could take you in a completely different direction, using the many transferrable skills you will develop. These include problem solving, developing arguments, analysing and evaluating information, collaboration, independent working, communication and more.
This degree could be the first step toward your career in:
- Local government
- The Civil Service (they offer a Fast Stream graduate scheme)
- Political and social research
- Charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Security and intelligence
- International aid
Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.
You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.
Postgraduate degrees at York St John University
Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.
Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice
This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
International students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.
Foundation year
This course is available with a foundation year. This option is ideal if you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto a degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education. A foundation year prepares you for degree level study, giving you the confidence and skills needed to make the most of your course. Passing it guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.
Mature Learners Entry Scheme
If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.
Fees and funding
To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.
UK 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry onto this course is:
- £9,250 per year for full time study
- £6,935 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time
These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students
You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:
Placement year funding
If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
International 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry to this course is £11,500 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your degree:
Additional costs and financial support
There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Study Abroad
For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.
Accommodation and living costs
For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.
Financial help and support
Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.
For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.
Course highlights
Topical and relevant
The topics you will study on this course are closely connected to the political changes being felt around the world today. Studying politics puts you in a strong position to understand these developments and engage with these debates.
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/2019-courses/carousels/Politics-1.jpg)
Authentic assessment
From writing party manifestos to ministerial briefing papers, we have designed assessments which reflect tasks you are likely to carry out in your career. We are preparing you for success in the workplace as well as in the classroom.
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/2019-courses/carousels/politics-2.jpg)
Experience more
Study abroad in your second year. Experience another culture and education system by spending a semester in the United States.
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/safe-images/1600-x-1200/American-flag-sky.jpg)
More to explore
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/safe-images/500-x-500/YORK-SHOTS---WEB-23-(1).jpg)
Join us in 2024
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/2019-courses/decision-day.jpg)
Open Days
/prod01/yorksjacuk/media/content-assets/safe-images/500-x-500/why-choose-YSJ-500x500.jpg)
