Our degree programmes in Politics and International Relations help you to understand the forces shaping the modern world – and enable you to analyse the political interactions that occur within and among nations. By introducing you to the concepts, methods, and theories of Politics and International Relations, our programmes reveal how power is exercised, how policies are formed, and how decisions are made.
At Lancaster, you will learn from world-leading specialists in the politics of the UK, Europe, America, Russia, Africa, India, China, and the Middle East. You’ll be exposed to the very latest thinking on diplomacy, warfare, and the strategic implications rapidly advancing technologies – as well as the national dynamics and party politics of governance of the UK. Through expert-led discussion in seminars and the opportunity for engaged forms of learning, our aim is support our students to become influential leaders who understand how to effect change.
Our programmes in BA Politics, BA International Relations and BA Politics and International Relations give students the experience necessary to understand and tackle the major global challenges of the twenty-first century. Our flexible curriculum prepares students for a wide range of careers, and allows them to acquire the versatility and skills that employers value.
Discover your interests
What are the best ways to approach international crises? Is it possible to create a more peaceful world? What are the relations between politics and economics? How do ideas and religious beliefs influence politics? Explore these questions and more as you develop the knowledge and skills that will support your future career.
After first year modules in Politics or International Relations, or both, you can choose from a wide range of optional modules. You might focus on security and sustainability, or war and new forms of conflict. You can focus on the politics of a particular country like Russia or China, or a region like Europe or the Middle East. Whatever you pick, you’ll be taught by experts who research on that area, and who contribute to scholarly and policy debates.
You also have the option to write a dissertation in your final year. An academic staff member will support you throughout – from choosing and defining your topic, to carrying out your research, to presenting and writing up your conclusions.
Politics and International Relations degrees
Our Politics degree explores political events and issues at local, national and regional levels, and also allows you to explore global politics.
Our International Relations degree focuses on politics across borders and international institutions, developing your understanding of global dynamics.
We offer joint degrees that combine Politics and International Relations, and allow you to combine these with other disciplines. You can view the courses complete list below.
