BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations Bachelor's degree at Lancaster University

Discover the core concepts, theories and historical contexts that shape the field of International Relations. You will gain an understanding of the state system, sovereignty, power, anarchy and other key concepts that underpin the discipline. You’ll also explore the history of international relations, from the emergence of the Westphalian system to contemporary global challenges. Examining the major theoretical traditions, including Realism, Liberalism and Constructivism, you’ll critically assesses their strengths and weaknesses in explaining current international dynamics. Through the analysis of historical and contemporary case studies, you will develop the essential analytical tools to un

Learn how to analyse highly contemporary political events and trends, and develop the vital critical skills required to be able to put them into context. You will also discover how to relate these issues to core empirical questions and debates within academic research on politics. Taking a problem-based learning approach, you’ll use evidence to evaluate competing explanations for recent political developments. These may include: Democracy and elections Political leadership The state and globalisation Structural inequalities Political institutions Public opinion and protest. Lancaster’s politics experts have extensive expertise across different regions of the globe and we are quick to respond

Explore the complex landscape of global governance and the role of international institutions in addressing contemporary challenges. You will begin by studying the historical development of the international system and the evolution of world order, setting the stage for an analysis of key actors in global politics. You’ll learn about: The functions and impact of states International organizations Non-governmental organizations Multinational corporations Transnational non-state actors Examining the processes of global governance, including diplomacy and negotiation, you will analyse the economic, social and cultural dimensions of globalization and their impact on state sovereignty, internatio

The world is full of “wicked problems”, from inequality, to unemployment, to housing crisis, to climate change. We need innovative policy to tackle these complex issues. On this module you will act as policy advisors, learning how to solve complex problems and produce practical recommendations to government for policy change. Working in teams on real-world policy cases, you will develop your understanding of the policymaking process from policy design to evaluation. We’ll touch on questions such as: Why do some issues get framed as problems and make it to the policy agenda? How is policy formulated? Why do policies fail? By the end of this module, you’ll have the skills to evaluate policy, p

Discover the key concepts that shape our understanding of British politics, learn how to conduct political analysis, and gain a sophisticated understanding of the complexities of the British political landscape. In this module we will open the black box of British politics. We'll explore the ideological foundations of major parties, tracing the Conservative Party's evolution from One-Nation to Thatcherism and Brexit, and analysing Labour's shift from Old to New Labour and the dilemmas of social democracy today. Through contemporary debates in the classroom and rigorous text analysis, you'll fine-tune your presentation skills, develop critical analytical skills by learning how to dissect poli

Challenge traditional understandings of international relations by studying critical theories and alternative perspectives of world order. You will gain an understanding of the way in which perspectives such as Marxism, post-structuralism, feminism, queer International Relations and postcolonialism contrast with positivist theories that prioritise objective facts and values. Shifting beyond state-centric views, you will examine how power, security and global order are shaped by social, economic and cultural forces. Through the use of case studies, you’ll gain the necessary tools to deconstruct dominant narratives and uncover hidden power dynamics. You will learn to analyse global issues from

Explore how the history of political thought can help us make sense of contemporary crises such as political instability, economic crises, deepening inequalities, environmental degradation and technological disruptions. In this troubled world, the enduring questions of power and resistance have gained new urgency and continue to animate contemporary political debates. What can Marx tell us about the dangers or promises of AI? How would Frantz Fanon engage with Black Lives Matter? What would Hannah Arendt say about social media’s impact on democracy? You will encounter the major and neglected currents in the history of political ideas such as: Liberalism Socialism Feminism The Black radical t

Gain a nuanced understanding of the forces driving change in the international system and their implications for global order and human security. You will acquire the tools to navigate and contribute to a complex and interconnected world. The module moves beyond traditional state-centric perspectives to explore the complex interplay of actors, structures and processes shaping our world. You will delve into global governance and address the emergence of new security threats, while tackling shifting power-dynamics at both the national and international level. Throughout the module, you will engage with a variety of case studies that illustrate the complexities of these global issues. Through d

The medieval and early modern periods witnessed immense change. This module will introduce you to the key themes, sources, and methods you need to understand the patterns of change and continuity around the world over a period of more than a thousand years. The shift from a warm climate in the medieval period to a colder one in the early modern period may help us explain patterns of life in a world where most people depended on subsistence agriculture. Huge transformations were also wrought by the movement of people, diseases, animals, and goods, with events such as the Black Death in Europe and smallpox epidemics in the Americas decisively changing how people lived, and how they related to

From questions about truth, justice, and knowledge to debates over freedom, power, and human purpose - how has philosophical inquiry shaped cultural, political, and scientific life across centuries? In this module you will explore the major ideas and traditions that have guided the development of Western thought. Specific thinkers examined will vary from year to year, but they will include philosophers whose ideas have helped shape philosophical viewpoints, categories and boundaries in the western philosophical tradition. You will be encouraged to think about the problems and limitations of different thinkers’ approaches, and their impact on the way we practice and understand the boundaries

This module offers a comprehensive introduction to microeconomics, which is the analysis of Economics at the level of the individual or firm. You will study topics including the theory of demand and supply, costs and pricing under various forms of market structure, and welfare economics. The module provides the foundations for further study in Economics. In addition to developing key theoretical concepts, we will also show how these concepts apply to real-life situations. The module is self-contained and can be taken by students with no prior knowledge of microeconomics. It takes a less mathematical approach to the subject than Principles of Microeconomics.

How are your personal experiences connected to broader social forces? This module introduces you to the ‘sociological imagination’, a way of thinking that helps you make sense of the relationship between individual lives and society. Drawing on classic and contemporary sociological debates, you’ll explore key questions about individualism, institutions and social change. You'll learn to critically analyse how biography and history intersect, engaging with foundational ideas in the discipline. By developing your own sociological take on these themes, you’ll gain essential skills in critical thinking, argumentation and analysis, preparing you for further study and enabling you to see the world i

Explore the profound transformations reshaping the contemporary international system. You will build on your knowledge of foundational theories and concepts to examine the dynamic interplay of power shifts, globalization and evolving security landscapes. You will critically analyse the changing distribution of power, including the rise of emerging powers and the implications for global order. At the same time, you will explore alternative visions for international cooperation. By examining emerging concepts such as human, environmental and gendered security, you will go beyond traditional security studies to scrutinise the role of power and discourse in shaping security practices. You will e

Politics is the exercise of power, and no concept is more central in political analysis than the state. But what is the state and how is it developing in the 21st century? Is it an overbearing apparatus of oppression, or a condition for freedom, peace and order? In this module, you will critically engage with the foundational theories, ideas and concepts that define the discipline of politics. We’ll look at the key thinkers and address the big questions, such as how is power exercised by the state and whose interests does it serve? Are corporations now more powerful than states? In the digital globalised world, are the boundaries of nation state power still relevant? By the end of the module

Gain the skills you need to complete independent research in Politics and International Relations. Direct your own learning by developing a research project on your chosen topic. Throughout the module, you will develop knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methods, and you’ll analyse a large quantitative political dataset using various methods to test for statistically significant relationships between variables. You will learn about three major approaches to qualitative research that will prepare you for future independent research work: How to conduct interviews How to analyse the discourse of political actors How to conduct comparative case studies You’ll find that the s

This thought-provoking module unpacks the global surge of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding. It examines different forms of autocracy and moves beyond traditional classifications to explore the diverse strategies of repression employed by 21st-century authoritarian regimes, from digital surveillance and manipulation to physical violence. We’ll examine the forces that contribute to the resilience of these regimes, including economic resources, international support, and the erosion of democratic norms. Crucially, we will also consider the various forms of resistance that emerge in response to authoritarian rule, from grassroots movements and civil disobedience to transnational advoc

Explore the key challenges of contemporary leadership and governing in the fast-changing, interconnected world of the 21st Century. From a comparative perspective, you will critically assess the extent to which political actors – whether individual or institutional – control their own destinies or are constrained by the globalised context within which they are operating. Key themes will include: Comparing sources of government legitimacy between authoritarian and democratic states Political leadership styles and strategies Political communication Variation in the impact of globalisation on the capacity and resources of states The EU and transnational political institutions The changing role

From financial meltdowns to rising inequalities, from environmental breakdown to the looming automation revolution, global capitalism appears to be in a state of permanent uncertainty. Studying the global economy has never been more urgent. In this module we’ll ask: Are states at the mercy of global corporations? Can capitalism survive the climate crisis? Is Western economic dominance coming to an end? You will explore the historical evolution, major transformations and possible futures of global capitalism, drawing on the insights of its defenders and its critics. Crucially, the module casts light on the unequal power relations structuring the global economy and the ways existing patterns o

In this examination of the evolving landscape of global power, we identify the forces challenging the world’s leading nations and explore the fluid nature of influence in the 21st century. We will analyse the shifting balance of power, explore the relative decline of traditional superpowers and the simultaneous rise of new actors on the global stage. You’ll be encouraged to consider how economic, military, and cultural influence is being reconfigured in a multipolar world, reshaping traditional understandings of world order. Crucially, we will also analyse the internal and external pressures these powers face, form rising regional actors, to the evolving nature of global threats, and the ero

Global and local political and economic affairs raise complicated philosophical issues. While political theory and philosophy often focus on normative questions – such as the nature of justice, freedom, or legitimacy – this module centres on the epistemological and methodological challenges that underpin our understanding of political and economic life. These challenges are no less important for how we think about contemporary societies and the difficulties they face and are, as you will discover, closely connected to more normative questions. Concepts such as democracy or autocracy, money, taxation and national debt, power and economic growth – all are complex and contested: They raise meta

This module offers a critical introduction to the complex political landscapes of regions in the Global South, exploring how historical, economic and social forces have shaped contemporary states and societies. You will examine colonial legacies and their lasting influence on political institutions, and the impact of external interventions on regions. The module also investigates the consequences of neoliberal economic reforms, the challenges faced during democratization processes, narratives of ‘development,’ and the dynamics of armed conflict and peacebuilding. Consideration is given to grassroots activism as well as the role of regional integration and cooperation in shaping political and

How have war and violence changed with the birth of the modern age? How have modern geopolitics and war transformed the ethical, political and strategic conditions of international politics and economy? In this module you will learn key concepts and critical approaches to the study of war and peace. In taking a longer view of war’s social, political, and cultural histories, you will develop a strong intellectual foundation as well as gaining an understanding of less traditional methods for analysing conflict in different global contexts. Through an exploration of key events, technologies and practices that have shaped the modern world, we will interrogate war’s contested legacies around the

Public policy defines our lives. It determines who gets what, when and how. This module gets to the heart of the power relations of policymaking by applying a critical lens to understanding policy. You will examine how ideas, interests and institutions shape policy, and who wins and who loses from its formulation. We’ll explore critical theories such as feminism, decolonisation, Marxism and anti-racism, to understand the power dynamics in public policy. We’ll touch on the key questions such as: Who decides what is a policy problem? Who bears the burdens or benefits of policy? Is evidence-based policy achievable? By the end of this module, you will be able to apply critical thinking skills to

Hone a strong sense of purpose and gain the satisfaction of applying your skills and knowledge to a community, charity or student-led initiative. Your challenge will be to take responsibility for arranging and completing a voluntary or fundraising activity, locally, virtually or during vacation periods at home. You will need to show that you have made a positive difference through this activity. In class, you will be asked to reflect on this experience and explore the wider social impact of the work. In doing so you will build your confidence in your ability to contribute meaningfully to society through your future personal and professional path.

You are invited to collaborate in an interdisciplinary team with other students as you explore major global challenges such as climate change, inequality or emerging technologies. Throughout the module you will examine how the humanities, arts and social sciences contribute to understanding and addressing complex issues. Classroom discussions and activities focus on the process of identifying problems and considering innovative, ethical responses, while helping you to consider and articulate the relevance of this work to your personal and professional development.

Explore how ideas can be developed into real-world projects with lasting value. Through hands-on collaboration and problem-solving, you will develop innovative projects, learn how to bring ideas to life and explore ways to sustain them. Whether you are working in a team or individually, you will be encouraged to experiment with different approaches to making a difference in artistic, cultural, social and community spaces.

Investigate an area of Politics and International Relations that is of particular interest to you by carrying out a detailed research project. The topic may be inspired by a module you’ve taken, or it may be less directly linked to course work but of special appeal to you. The dissertation is an extended piece of written work and a chance to develop your research skills and your ability to work independently. You will be assigned an academic supervisor who will have some familiarity with your chosen topic. They will support you through the different stages of the dissertation, from developing your research design, to confirming your research question and working out the best methodology. Com

Study conceptual questions about the nature of power, justice, freedom and the state – and normative questions about the kinds of political structures we should adopt. This module builds on previous modules on political philosophy and theory by offering the opportunity for advanced study in the area. We will consider questions such as how can democracy safeguard our interests, and how might it endanger them? What is equality, and is it desirable? What does it mean to claim that we have ‘rights’? You will read contemporary and historical texts in depth and debate their implications for modern governance and society. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the theories behind key issues in contemp

In this module you’ll encounter advanced critical approaches to the study of war and security. Focusing on the social, political, and cultural complexity of war in the ‘late modern’ period, the module builds on theoretical knowledge gained previously in the course, to investigate and contest war’s increasing reach both around the globe and into everyday life. Marking the transition from the Cold War to the ‘Global War on Terror,’ this module considers especially how contemporary war has changed in terms of tactics, technologies, and terrain, investigating the various spaces in and through which wars are fought. Finally, the module considers the emergence of the so-called ‘New Cold War’ throu

An important exploration of the key issues and challenges facing contemporary democratic states and movements in the 21st Century. Arguably, modern democracy faces multiple challenges such as: The rise of populist movements Democratic backsliding Declining public trust in leaders and political institutions Globalisation and transnational government New forms of authoritarian leadership Increasing repression of dissent and protest Taking a comparative approach, we will explore how these evolving challenges have impacted the politics of both democratic and authoritarian states, and we will evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies that have been taken to address them. Using the skills in bo

The emergence, consolidation and transformation of world capitalism has been marked by its uneven character in terms of development, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. This module aims to provide you with a theoretical foundation for the study of international development and the environment, by focusing on the structural roots of current challenges. We will focus in particular on global inequalities and environmental injustice. Drawing on mainstream and critical development studies, international political economy and discourse analysis, the module examines the interconnections between uneven development and the deterioration of the natural environment. You will examin

Examine two of the world’s most important powers - the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) – and a transatlantic alliance that was forged post-war and remains one of the most important globally despite current challenges. The module provides an introduction to the EU’s normative power and its attempts to upload its distinctive European values internationally before looking at US as the pre-eminent global superpower. In particular, the dynamics of EU-US relations will be explored and scrutinised. How has the Trump presidency affected the relationship between Brussels and Washington? What are the long-term prospects for the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), still of vit

This unique module is delivered in partnership with the UK Parliament. You will interact directly with MPs, parliamentary officials and clerks, while exploring vital questions of policy formation and constitutional reform. In recent years the existing Parliamentary institutions of the UK have come under unparalleled stress. Brexit, devolution and declining public trust in politics have led many people to question the fundamental structure of UK political institutions. However, Parliament remains at the centre of political life in the UK and is fundamental to the development of public policy. This leads to key questions about the extent to which the UK Parliament is fit for purpose as a 21st

The module includes a placement where you will work on real-world policy-making scenarios. You’ll gain practical experience and in-depth knowledge of the policymaking process within different political contexts. You’ll also deepen your understanding of key theoretical frameworks and concepts in policy analysis and development. As well as gaining professional skills, you’ll discover how academic knowledge acquired during your degree translates into different policy-making contexts. By the end of the module, you will be able to conduct robust policy research using various methodologies and tools, evaluate the ethical implications of policy decisions, and advocate for ethics and value-based app

In this module you will engage with some of the most challenging issues in international relations. Latin America and Africa are two of the most dynamic yet overlooked regions in contemporary international society. You will explore various of facets of Latin American and African political processes and examine their shared colonial history, which continues to shape their political economies, post-colonial politics and policy-making, and rich cultural life. This is seen in their role as primary commodity exporters in the global economy, extensive ongoing external intervention, corruption, inequality, poverty, conflict, social movements, electoral populism, deep religiosity and creative renewa

In this module we critically examine the politics and history of the Middle East and Asia Pacific, focusing on how these regional categories have been historically constructed and contested. Themes will include: Colonial legacies Nationalism Authoritarianism Gender and politics Religion and ethnicity Political movements Changing forms of governance Through comparative case studies, you will be introduced to the diversity of political systems and experiences across the two regions, and you will investigate patterns of similarity and difference. The module responds to contemporary global developments and supports critical reflection on state, society and regional identity.