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Politics and International Relations at UEA
Find out more about studying Politics and International Relations at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBA (Hons) International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L20P
- Typical Offer
- BBB
- Contextual Offer
- BCC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Start Dates
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14th
UEA is ranked 14th overall for research quality in Politics and International Studies
Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
Why BA International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year?
Explore how political systems shape societies and how global power operates in an interconnected world. Develop analytical and communication skills to engage with domestic politics, international challenges, and diverse global careers. Spend your third year in a real-world placement.
Why choose us
- Expert staff: Study with academics shaping debates on democracy, governance, conflict, and international cooperation
- Politics in action: Engage in simulations, field trips, internships, and study abroad experiences connecting political ideas with real decision-making
- Career skills: Develop analytical, communication, and strategic thinking abilities for careers in policy, diplomacy, journalism, advocacy, and public service
What is BA International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year?
Understand how power operates, both within societies and across borders. You'll explore governance, representation, conflict, and cooperation through multiple analytical perspectives.
You'll examine how states interact, how global institutions function, and how citizens shape political change at home and abroad. Academics actively shaping these debates will guide your thinking throughout.
Together, these disciplines offer a uniquely comprehensive view of political life in an interconnected world. You'll connect theory to real institutions and decisions through simulations, case studies, and applied learning.
In year three, you’ll spend 9 to 12 months in a real-world placement. Gain professional experience, build practical skills, and enhance your future career prospects.
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Placement Year
You’ll have the opportunity to enhance your employability through a 9–12 month placement in your third year. You’ll gain valuable professional experience, apply your academic knowledge, and develop practical workplace skills.
You’ll secure your placement with support from Career Central and your academic school. This experience helps you build industry connections, strengthen your CV, and stand out to future employers.
Find out more about this exciting opportunity at placement years in Arts and Humanities.
Careers
Career Pathways
With a BA International Relations and Politics with a Placement Year degree, you could develop a career as a:
- Diplomat: Represent your country abroad and support negotiations, diplomacy, and international policy
- Political Consultant: Advise political parties, campaigns, or organisations on strategy, messaging, and public opinion
- Policy Analyst: Research political issues and help governments or think tanks develop effective policies
- Political Journalist: Report on elections, governments, and global political events for news organisations
- NGO Programme Officer: Manage projects addressing global challenges such as development, human rights, or humanitarian aid
Career Support
UEA’s Career Central is available to support you from day one, and up to three years after graduation. You’ll receive personalised careers guidance through one‑to‑one appointments, employer events, and tailored professional development workshops. Our advisors will help you explore political and international career pathways and create strong, competitive applications. You’ll also build professional connections through internships, visiting speakers, and field trips designed as networking opportunities. We’ll also support you in linking your academic interests to career possibilities.
After the Course
You’ll graduate with analytical, communication, and problem‑solving skills valued across political, public, and international sectors. You’ll be equipped to work in government, diplomacy, NGOs, media, or political organisations. Many graduates also choose to continue into specialist postgraduate study or professional political training. You’ll have the confidence and capabilities to succeed in diverse global careers.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your International Relations and Politics degree will begin with an overview of the key questions and debates within the disciplines of international relations and politics. You’ll also explore different understandings of key issues within domestic and global politics, from democracy to war, conflict and security through to issues around gender, environmental politics and migration.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
As you progress in your degree, you'll continue to solidify your understanding of the complex world of politics and international relations through studying core modules. You’ll also acquire essentials research methods skills, such as conducting interviews, or running and analysing a survey. You’ll be encouraged to specialise in your studies by taking modules that focus on more specific topics or regions of the world. This will allow you to shape your expertise around your passions and shape your potential career path.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional G Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional H Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
Your third year will be spent on your placement, providing you with the opportunity to experience the world of work while applying some of the skills and knowledge you’ve developed during your first two years of study.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
You’ll have the opportunity to write a dissertation or group research project on a topic you’ve chosen. You’ll also have the chance to kick-start your career with employability skills, an internship, or work placement, as well as specifically dedicated career events.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 30)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 30)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Teaching combines interactive lectures, small-group seminars, and practical learning designed to develop your confidence and critical thinking. You’ll learn from research‑active academics who bring contemporary global issues into your classes. We support your learning through discussion‑based teaching, problem‑solving tasks, and opportunities to apply theory to real cases. Our approach ensures you build analytical and professional skills throughout your degree.
In year one, you’ll be introduced to core concepts through structured teaching that supports your transition to university study. Seminars help you develop discussion skills and apply theories to real political issues.
Year two teaching develops your analytical independence through theory-led classes and research methods training. Workshops strengthen your ability to evaluate evidence and design academic projects.
You’ll spend your third year on a placement. You’ll be responsible for securing the placement with the support of UEA’s well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond. During your placement you’ll be supported by a placement mentor, who will regularly monitor and review your progress with you. You’ll also receive remote support from UEA to make your year as smooth and beneficial as possible.
In year four you’ll work more independently while receiving close supervision on your research project. Advanced modules use specialist teaching that connects academic research with contemporary global challenges.
Assessment
Assessment is varied to help you develop strong academic and professional skills. You’ll complete essays, policy briefs, case studies, and presentations across the degree. Assessments are designed to test your analytical ability, communication skills, and understanding of global issues. Support is available through feedback, academic skills workshops, and supervisor guidance.
Year one assessments introduce you to academic writing and evidence‑based argument. Tasks help you build confidence in presenting ideas clearly.
In year two, you’ll complete more analytical assessments, including research methods tasks and thematic essays. Assignments strengthen your ability to interpret data and evaluate complex global issues.
In year three, on completion of your placement year, you'll be asked to reflect on your placement by, for instance, offering a self-appraisal of what you’ve learnt and demonstrating your broader commercial awareness of your placement’s sector.
In year four, you’ll produce an independent research project with specialist guidance. Advanced modules include applied assessments that reflect real-world professional tasks.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
BBB
Contextual offer: BCC
BTEC
DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Contextual: DD plus C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A level.
Contextual: D plus BC at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 45 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year Options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics (with a Foundation Year)
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
31 points overall.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AABBB or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
Scottish Advanced Highers
CCC or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
BBB
International Baccalaureate
31 points overall.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy(opens in a new window) applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see additional course fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started. (opens in a new window)
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: