BA(Hons) Politics and International Relations with Sandwich

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of the West of England, Bristol are typically required to have a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their secondary school or equivalent qualifications.

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 80, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading,  Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67 with no individual score below 51.

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.

The University of the West of England (UWE) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students to support their academic journey. UWE offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and attract talented individuals from around the world.

Chancellor's Scholarship: The Chancellor's Scholarship is the most prestigious scholarship offered by UWE. It provides a substantial tuition fee waiver to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and potential. The scholarship covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

Millennium Scholarship: The Millennium Scholarship is another significant scholarship opportunity for international students. It is awarded based on academic excellence and provides a tuition fee waiver for the first year of study. This scholarship is available for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

International Scholarship: UWE offers a range of International Scholarships that are open to international students from all countries. These scholarships provide a tuition fee reduction for the first year of study. The eligibility criteria may vary, but they generally consider academic merit and potential.

Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties at UWE offer scholarships dedicated to students within their specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are designed to support talented students in pursuing studies in fields such as engineering, business, health, and sciences.

Country-specific Scholarships: UWE also provides scholarships that are specific to certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to attract students from those particular areas and promote cultural diversity within the university community.

Sports Scholarships: UWE values sporting achievements and offers sports scholarships to talented athletes. These scholarships provide financial support and other benefits to help athletes balance their sporting commitments with their academic studies.

External Scholarships and Funding: UWE encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available in their home countries or through international organizations. The university provides guidance and support to students in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.

Graduates of the BA(Hons) Politics and International Relations with Sandwich program at the University of the West of England (UWE), UK, possess a diverse skill set and practical experience that opens up various career opportunities in the fields of politics, international relations, diplomacy, public policy, and global affairs. The combination of academic knowledge and industry experience gained through the sandwich placement year prepares graduates for fulfilling roles in both public and private sectors, as well as in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international institutions.

Political Advisor or Consultant: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as political advisors or consultants, providing expertise and strategic advice to politicians, policymakers, political parties, or advocacy groups. Political advisors offer analysis, research, and recommendations on political trends, policy developments, and public opinion to support decision-making processes and political campaigns. They may specialize in areas such as electoral strategy, policy analysis, communication, or stakeholder engagement, working closely with clients to achieve their political objectives.

Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: Graduates may pursue careers in diplomacy and international relations, working for diplomatic missions, embassies, or international organizations. Diplomats and foreign service officers represent their home countries abroad, negotiate agreements, and promote diplomatic relations with other countries. They address diplomatic issues, engage in conflict resolution efforts, and advocate for their country's interests in international forums, multilateral organizations, and diplomatic negotiations on issues such as peace, security, human rights, and trade.

Public Policy Analyst or Researcher: Some graduates may work as public policy analysts or researchers, conducting research, analysis, and evaluation of public policies and government programs. Public policy analysts work for government agencies, think tanks, research institutes, or consulting firms, providing insights and recommendations on policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. They analyze policy options, assess their impact on various stakeholders, and propose evidence-based solutions to address societal challenges and achieve policy objectives.

International Development Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers in international development, collaborating with development agencies, humanitarian organizations, or NGOs to address poverty, inequality, and social injustice in developing countries. International development specialists design and implement development projects, manage humanitarian programs, and facilitate capacity-building initiatives in areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. They work with local communities, governments, and international partners to promote sustainable development and improve living conditions for vulnerable populations.

Political Journalist or Analyst: Some graduates may work as political journalists, commentators, or analysts, providing analysis, commentary, and reporting on political events, policy debates, and international affairs. Political journalists work for media outlets, news organizations, think tanks, or research institutions, covering political developments, conducting interviews, and writing articles or producing multimedia content for print, broadcast, or online platforms. They contribute to informed public discourse, raise awareness on political issues, and hold government officials and institutions accountable through investigative journalism and objective reporting.

NGO or Advocacy Work: Graduates may work in NGOs, advocacy groups, or civil society organizations, advocating for social justice, human rights, and democratic governance. They may work as campaign organizers, policy advocates, or community organizers, mobilizing public support, lobbying policymakers, and raising awareness on issues such as environmental sustainability, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, or refugee rights. They engage in grassroots activism, fundraising efforts, and coalition-building initiatives to effect positive social change and advance democratic principles.

Policy Advisor or Consultant: Graduates may work as policy advisors or consultants, providing expertise and strategic advice to government officials, politicians, or advocacy groups on policy issues and legislative initiatives. Policy advisors conduct research, analyze policy options, and develop recommendations to address complex challenges and achieve policy objectives. They collaborate with stakeholders, draft policy documents, and facilitate stakeholder consultations to influence decision-making processes and shape public policy outcomes.