MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Commencing in September 2026, this three-year undergraduate degree provides students with a robust foundation in political theory, international relations, and global political economy. The curriculum is structured to foster analytical thinking, critical evaluation, and a deep understanding of the political landscape. Students engage with pressing global issues, including war, climate change, and inequality, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to addressing these challenges.
Curriculum: The program offers a diverse range of modules that cover core areas such as international relations theory, global political economy, and comparative politics. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies through optional modules, allowing for specialization in areas like security studies, environmental politics, and political theory. The curriculum emphasizes a student-led approach, incorporating various teaching methods including lectures, seminars, and workshops to cater to diverse learning styles.
Research Focus: The Department of International Relations at Sussex is one of the largest in Europe, renowned for its research excellence. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research across various fields, including international theory, global political economy, and security studies. Students benefit from exposure to this research through guest lectures, seminars, and opportunities to participate in research projects, fostering a rich academic environment that bridges theory and practice.
Industry Engagement: Sussex provides students with ample opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and collaborations with external organizations. The university's strong connections with political consultancies, NGOs, and governmental bodies enable students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings. Additionally, initiatives like masterclasses with professionals and opportunities to work with political experts enhance students' employability and professional networks.
Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global perspective, encouraging students to engage with international issues and perspectives. Opportunities for study abroad and participation in international conferences allow students to broaden their understanding of global politics. The diverse student body and faculty at Sussex further enrich the learning experience, fostering a multicultural environment that reflects the interconnectedness of the global political landscape.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at the University of Sussex offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities in the political, diplomatic, and international sectors. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills needed to succeed in various industries. By understanding political theory, international relations, and global challenges, graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers that impact the world on a local, national, and international scale.
Political Analyst/Consultant: Graduates of this program are well-equipped to work as political analysts or consultants, providing strategic advice on political campaigns, policy development, and governance. These professionals often work for political parties, think tanks, and advocacy organizations, advising on public policy or helping to shape electoral strategies.
Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: A popular career path for graduates is joining the diplomatic service or foreign ministries as diplomats or foreign service officers. These professionals represent their country abroad, engaging in negotiations, conflict resolution, and promoting international relations and trade.
Public Policy Advisor: Public policy advisors play a crucial role in advising government officials, policymakers, or non-governmental organizations on policy decisions. They analyze global and local issues to provide recommendations that can influence legislation, social programs, and economic policy.
International Development Professional: For those interested in global social issues, working in international development organizations is a key option. Graduates may find roles with NGOs, international bodies like the United Nations, or government aid agencies, working on projects related to humanitarian aid, poverty reduction, and global health.
Journalist/Political Correspondent: Graduates with a passion for writing and reporting can pursue careers in political journalism. As political correspondents, they analyze and report on political developments, elections, and international relations for media outlets, including newspapers, TV stations, and online platforms.
Intelligence and Security Analyst: With expertise in international relations and political risk, graduates can join intelligence agencies, working as analysts to assess national security risks, monitor political instability, and help shape defense policy. This could include roles in government intelligence agencies or private security firms.
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Worker: Many graduates choose to work for NGOs that address social justice, human rights, and environmental issues globally. Positions can include policy advocacy, project management, or campaign coordination, with the aim of influencing international policy and effecting social change.
Legal and Human Rights Advisor: The program’s focus on politics and international relations can also lead graduates to pursue law, particularly in areas related to human rights or international law. Legal advisors with expertise in international treaties, trade agreements, and human rights law are in high demand in multinational corporations and international organizations.
International Business and Trade Professional: Graduates with an interest in business may enter the field of international business and trade. By applying their understanding of global politics and economics, they can work in multinational companies, assisting with market entry strategies, global trade negotiations, and corporate social responsibility projects.
Political Risk Consultant: For graduates with an interest in business and risk analysis, political risk consulting is a viable career path. Political risk consultants assess the impact of political instability, elections, or government policies on business operations, advising firms on how to mitigate potential risks when operating in politically volatile regions.
Campaign Manager: Graduates can also become campaign managers for political candidates, where they use their knowledge of political strategy and international relations to coordinate election campaigns, manage media relations, and craft policy platforms.
