Department: Department of Politics and International Relations. This three-year Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA Hons) program at the University of York places you at the heart of current political thinking, research, and debate, with a strong focus on global issues. You will gain a firm grounding in the fundamental principles of both politics and international relations. The curriculum covers key concepts, theories, and approaches across major areas of politics, including comparative politics, political theory, and the shifting balance of international power. You will learn to think critically about pressing global challenges such as human rights, global development, environmental sustainability, struggles for democracy, and the threat of terrorism. The Department of Politics and International Relations is highly regarded, ranked in the UK top ten for the quality of its research outputs and environment (REF 2021). You'll learn from world-leading academics with expertise in areas like conflict, security, development, political economy, and political theory, often in small group settings (typically fewer than 15 students in a seminar group). The course offers a large choice of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your studies to your own interests and passions.

Career options for graduates are excellent and diverse, leveraging the strong analytical, critical thinking, research, and communication skills developed through this degree. The University of York has great graduate prospects, with its degrees recognized by employers worldwide. Graduates are well-prepared for a wide variety of career paths in government (local, national, and international civil service, policy advisory), international organizations (e.g., UN, NGOs), research and policy-making, journalism, media, public relations, finance, and further academic study. Alumni have gone on to work with organizations such as the Home Office, Cabinet Office, European Parliament, KPMG, the World Food Programme, Ernst & Young, and Goldman Sachs. The program equips students with transferable skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving, report writing, and intellectual independence, all highly valued in the global job market.

The University of York is a member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group, signifying its commitment to world-class research and outstanding teaching. It is a university with many highly ranked subjects and boasts great graduate prospects, reflecting its strong reputation with employers. Located in a historic city in northern England that's famous for being friendly, York offers a supportive and engaging student experience in a beautiful setting. The Department of Politics and International Relations is at the forefront of research and debate, with academics who regularly advise governments and contribute to current affairs. The option for an integrated year in industry or a year abroad further enhances career readiness.