BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations

The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program at York St John University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, international politics, and global affairs. This program explores key concepts, theories, and debates in politics and international relations, preparing students to analyze complex political issues, understand global trends, and engage critically with contemporary challenges. Through a combination of theoretical study, empirical analysis, and practical learning experiences, students develop essential skills in research, critical thinking, and communication, positioning them for diverse career opportunities in government, diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, and more.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program covers a wide range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations theory, and global governance. Core modules provide students with a foundation in key concepts and debates, while elective modules allow for specialization in areas such as international security, diplomatic studies, development politics, or regional politics. Students may also have the opportunity to undertake a research project or dissertation in their final year, allowing them to explore a topic of interest in depth under the guidance of faculty members.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program emphasizes research skills development, enabling students to undertake independent research projects and critically evaluate academic literature in politics and international relations. Throughout their studies, students learn research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and academic writing skills, preparing them to undertake research projects during their final year of study. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas, providing students with opportunities for mentorship and collaboration on research initiatives.

Industry Engagement: Students in the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program engage with industry through internships, placements, and practical learning experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world applications. They may undertake placements with government agencies, diplomatic missions, international organizations, or NGOs, gaining insights into how politics and international relations operate in practice. Additionally, the program may collaborate with industry partners to offer guest lectures, workshops, or networking events, providing students with access to professionals and practitioners working in politics, diplomacy, and international affairs.

Global Perspective: With its focus on international politics and global affairs, the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program at York St John University provides students with a global perspective on contemporary issues and challenges. Students explore topics such as globalization, conflict resolution, human rights, and global governance, analyzing the interconnectedness of political systems and the impact of international dynamics on domestic politics. They may have the opportunity to study abroad, participate in international exchanges, or engage with global issues through coursework, research projects, or extracurricular activities, enhancing their cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic qualification: International students must have a minimum overall score of 60% or above in the relevant secondary education qualification or its equivalent.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 75, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading,  Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE: A minimum overall score of 46 with no individual score below 36.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

York St John University offers a range of scholarships to international students, providing financial support and recognition for their academic achievements. These scholarships aim to attract talented students from around the world and promote diversity within the university community.

International Scholarship Programme: This scholarship is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from non-EU countries. It offers a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the program. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Vice Chancellor's Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. It provides a tuition fee reduction of up to £5,000 per year. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Country-specific Scholarships: York St John University also offers scholarships tailored to students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships may have varying eligibility criteria and award amounts. Examples include the Nigeria Scholarship, Ghana Scholarship, and India Scholarship.

Sports Scholarships: York St John University values sporting excellence and offers scholarships to international students who excel in their chosen sport. These scholarships provide support for training, coaching, and competition expenses, along with access to sports facilities and other benefits.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts may vary each year.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations program at York St John University are well-equipped for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in various sectors. With their in-depth understanding of political systems, global affairs, and analytical skills, graduates can pursue roles in government, diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, research, advocacy, and more. 

Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs: Graduates may work in diplomatic services, representing their country's interests abroad, negotiating agreements, and promoting diplomatic relations. They may serve as diplomats, consular officers, or policy analysts in diplomatic missions, international organizations, or government agencies, contributing to peacebuilding efforts, conflict resolution, and international cooperation.

Government and Public Service: Many graduates pursue careers in government and public service, working for government departments, ministries, or local authorities. They may work as policy advisors, civil servants, or researchers, analyzing political developments, drafting policy proposals, and implementing government initiatives. Graduates may specialize in areas such as foreign policy, defense, trade, or international development, contributing to policy formulation and implementation at the national or international level.

International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates may work for international organizations, such as the United Nations, European Union, or World Bank, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on global issues such as human rights, development, or environmental sustainability. They may serve in roles related to program management, policy analysis, advocacy, or project coordination, contributing to efforts to address global challenges and promote social justice and human rights.

Research and Think Tanks: Some graduates may pursue research careers in academia, think tanks, or research institutes, conducting research on political and international affairs. They may work as research analysts, policy advisors, or scholars, conducting empirical research, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to public debates on political and global issues. Graduates may specialize in areas such as security studies, international law, conflict resolution, or global governance.

Journalism and Media: Graduates may work in journalism, media, or communications, covering political and international news for news organizations, digital media platforms, or think tank publications. They may serve as reporters, correspondents, or editors, analyzing global events, conducting interviews with political leaders, and communicating complex political issues to the public, contributing to informed public discourse and democratic accountability.

International Business and Trade: Some graduates may pursue careers in international business, working for multinational corporations, consulting firms, or trade associations. They may work in roles related to international trade, market analysis, or corporate diplomacy, leveraging their understanding of political and international dynamics to navigate global markets, assess geopolitical risks, and identify business opportunities in different regions.

Security and Intelligence: Graduates may work in security and intelligence agencies, analyzing security threats, conducting risk assessments, and providing strategic advice to governments or private sector organizations. They may specialize in areas such as counterterrorism, cybersecurity, or intelligence analysis, contributing to efforts to safeguard national security and protect against emerging threats in an increasingly complex global environment.

Academic and Education: Some graduates may pursue academic careers in higher education institutions, teaching and conducting research in the fields of politics and international relations. They may work as lecturers, professors, or researchers in universities, colleges, or research institutes, contributing to knowledge production, mentorship of students, and academic discourse on political and global issues.