This degree is split 75:25 between Politics & International Studies and Chinese. It is four years and includes a year of study or work placement abroad in the third year.

It combines the study of theory and practice in a broad range of subjects:

• Political theory
• International security
• International relations
• International development
• Comparative politics
• International political economy
• Political systems

Develop an ability to understand complex theoretical positions. Learn how to apply them to political problems and issues from a local and global level.

Learn from world-class researchers and develop independent research skills. Gain the confidence to debate with colleagues and give individual and group presentations.

Lectures and Seminars

Most modules are taught using a combination of weekly lectures and seminars. Lectures give an introduction to a topic to help prepare you for discussions in seminars. In seminars, you can engage in debates and share your views.

Learning support

You will have a personal tutor who you can speak to about any questions you may have. There are also regular feedback sessions and opportunities to speak to module directors and seminar tutors.

Contact hours

There are 8-12 hours of classroom contact available per week. This is also supplemented with group work, one-to-one advice, feedback sessions, and the use of web-based materials.

Class size

• Year 1 seminars: 14 students max
• Year 2 and 3 seminars: 18 students max
• Lecture sizes vary

Modules are usually assessed through a mixture of exams and essays.

• Summative assessments include exams and coursework that go towards your final grade.

• Formative assessments do not contribute marks to your final grade. However, they help you understand key learning points and assessment styles.

The third year is spent studying at a partner institution in China.

Possible exchange partners include:

• Shanghai Jiao Tong University
• Tsinghua University

Our culture

Join an innovative, creative and passionate department with a lively and interactive culture. Stretch and challenge yourself with the support of friendly staff and your peers.

Our rankings

• 1st in the UK in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020
• Ranked 5th by the Guardian University Guide 2020
• 91% overall satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2019
• 42nd in the world according to The QS World University

Our people

The department has 60 members of staff, making it one of the largest politics departments in the UK. Students and staff represent over 40 countries, providing a diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

World-leading academics

Staff are part of national and international research centres, advocacy groups and think tanks. Some are also holders of consultancy roles with national governments and international organisations.