Why study Politics & International Relations in the UK?
UK Politics and IR programmes typically cover political theory, comparative politics, UK and European politics, international relations theory, security studies, international political economy and area studies (Middle East, China, Africa, Latin America). Many programmes offer optional placements at think tanks, charities, government departments or international organisations. SOAS is particularly strong on Asia, Africa and the Middle East; St Andrews on international relations theory; LSE on political economy. International fees range from £15,000 to £25,000 per year at universities and £12,500 to £17,500 at pathway colleges.
Career outcomes
Graduates take roles in the UK Civil Service (the Fast Stream, the Foreign Office), think tanks (Chatham House, RUSI, the IISS, the Adam Smith Institute), NGOs and international organisations (UN agencies, the EU institutions, the World Bank, NATO), journalism, political consulting, and corporate public affairs. According to LEO data, Politics graduates have a median salary of £26,000-£30,000 fifteen months after graduation. The Graduate Route visa applies; many Civil Service roles require British citizenship or Settled Status, so check eligibility for specific routes.
Courses available through AEN
We work with UK partners offering Foundation Year Politics/Humanities (£5,760-£9,790), BA Politics, BA International Relations, BA Politics with International Relations (joint), BA Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE), Top-up Bachelor's, and MA / MSc programmes across International Relations, International Political Economy, Security Studies, Diplomacy and area studies.
Entry requirements
Direct BA entry typically requires 96-128 UCAS points (CCC-ABB), with one essay-based subject usually preferred. Russell Group universities require AAB-AAA. IELTS 6.5-7.0 — politics and IR are reading- and writing-heavy disciplines. Foundation Year accepts lower qualifications. MA programmes typically require a 2:2 or 2:1 Bachelor's, often in a related social science.