BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics · LMUBachelor's degree · Duration varies
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London Metropolitan University · Undergraduate

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

BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics at LMU. You'll study core theory alongside research methods and applied practice, with the chance to specialise through optional modules and complete an independent project.

BA (Hons)
Award
Years
Part-time
Study mode
65%
in work/study (15m)

About this course

Explore key issues of intersectionality and political power in this London Met From the provider’s course page.

BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at LMU, based in North. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.

For Social sciences graduates from this provider, 65% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 35% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £26,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)

For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Politics & International Relations, see the sections below.

Course evidence score

The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.

7.6
/ 10
Strong
3 of 3 official measures
Student satisfaction
What students say in the National Student Survey
Excellent83

Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Graduate outcomes
In work or further study 15 months after graduating
Solid65

Limited evidence Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 65% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Continuation
Students who continue past their first year
Excellent80

Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 80% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Curriculum & modules

Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.

Year 1 8 modules
  • After Empire: Regions and Powers in World PoliticsCore15 credits
    Module details

    In historical perspective, the period since the end of World War II is very distinctive. Following the process of decolonisation, nearly every person in the world today resides in a sovereign state, in contrast to previous eras when different forms of political community coexisted. However, despite the uniformity of contemporary world politics, there are great variations across different regions, especially regarding the nature and dynamics of peace and conflict. On this module you will explore

  • Conflict and Diplomacy Since 1945Core15 credits
    Module details

    On this module you will explore the historical development of the international system since the end of the Second World War, focusing on the relations between the major powers in the international system, the conflicts they became embroiled in and their diplomatic efforts to contain or resolve them. You will learn about the origins of the Cold War, how it developed and evolved and how it was brought to a peaceful conclusion, before moving on to examine the nature of the post-Cold War internatio

  • Global Wealth and Inequality: An Introduction to International Political EconomyCore15 credits
    Module details

    This module introduces general debates in International Political Economy (IPE) about the relationship between politics and economics that shape our understanding of global issues and challenges. If focuses on how these global issues and challenges are addressed by relevant international actors and bodies and its consequences in terms of the distribution of global wealth and the persistence of inequality. Students will learn different theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of Int

  • Perspectives from the Global SouthCore15 credits
    Module details

    This module on Perspectives from the Global South introduces debates on global issues with a focus on inputs emerging from non-Western context. Are global issues understood similarly by the Global North and the Global South? The module will consist of an introductory part on understanding the notion of Global South with a critical discussion of the subfield of Area Studies. Then, the main content of module draws from empirical case studies to address global issues such as gender, migration, and

  • Political Science Concepts and InstitutionsCore15 credits
    Module details

    The principal aim of the module is to introduce students to the discipline of Political Science. It aims to examine some of its key concepts and a series of institutions that students may already be reasonably familiar with as citizens. You will explore the basic theories and methods associated with the study of politics and introduces students to key concepts such as the political system, political culture and participation. You will then examine some of the key institutions of politics includi

  • Understanding the International SystemCore15 credits
    Module details

    The aim of this module is to introduce you to the study of International Relations as an academic discipline, enabling you to understand the development of the international system. You will consider some of the most important theories used in the study of international relations, and examine the development of the Westphalian system, the international political economy, and the role of transnational actors and international institutions. The module will enable you to identify the key actors in

  • Violence, Peace and Progress: Issues in World PoliticsCore15 credits
    Module details

    The broad aims of this module are to introduce you to some of the most important issues the international community faces and to enable you to think as problem-solvers and practitioners. You will examine topics such as terrorism, race, gender, poverty, the environment, nuclear proliferation, migration, genocide, human rights and humanitarian develop. You will consider the impact of these issues at the local, national and international level. You will explore how the forces of globalisation have

  • What is Politics For? Political Aims and IdeasCore
Year 2 11 modules
  • British Politics
  • Paradigms and Politics: Research Methods and Models
  • Political Ideas in Modernity: Choices, Rights and Challenges
  • Political Ideas in Modernity: From Renaissance to Revolution
  • Theories of International Relations: Discipline and Diversity
  • Modern Diplomacy: Communication, Representation, Negotiation
  • Peace and Conflict: Theories and Issues
  • Politics of the Middle East
  • Sustainability and Environmental Justice
  • The New Diplomacy
  • The Politics of the European Union
Year 3 13 modules
  • International Security Studies: Issues and Challenges
  • International Security Studies: Theories and Challenges
  • The Modern State: Democracy, Dictatorship and Beyond
  • The Modern State: Progress, Protests and Power
  • Placement
  • Year Project
  • Semester Project
  • Action and Identity: Gender and Political Participation
  • Conflict Resolution: Building Sustainable Peace
  • Conflict Resolution: Concepts and Strategies
  • Global Populism and the Crisis of Democracy
  • Human Rights and Global Justice
  • Public Diplomacy and Global Influence

Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.

Course in depth

What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.

What you'll study

This course explores key issues of intersectionality and political power. A typical Politics & International Relations degree moves from foundational study of political systems, ideologies and international relations theory, covering realism, constructivism and contemporary security challenges, through critical analysis of how democracies and autocracies function across countries. You'll usually develop research and analytical skills alongside substantive modules in your first and second years. In your final year, you'll select from specialisations such as global governance, human rights, political theory, international security, comparative politics and public policy, while undertaking a supervised dissertation on a political question of your choice.

Who it's for

You're drawn to understanding how power works, across borders, within societies, and at the intersection of different identities. You're curious about real-world politics and willing to challenge assumptions. You may be working already and need flexibility; part-time study lets you apply what you learn immediately. You have the patience for close reading, the stamina for sustained arguments, and the inclination to ask uncomfortable questions about who holds power and why. You're not looking for easy answers, but rather the tools to think critically about a complex world.

Careers & job market

Across Politics & International Relations courses nationally, 85% of graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating. Within that cohort, 60% are in highly skilled roles or pursuing postgraduate study. Starting salaries range from £24,000 to £32,000 nationally; after five years, graduates earn between £27,200 and £38,400. Careers span diplomacy, international development, policy research, think tanks, civil service, NGOs and journalism, anywhere that demands understanding of political systems and global relations.

University & format

This BA (Hons) in International Relations and Politics is delivered part-time at London Metropolitan University, a public university in North London. The degree is taught in English and recognised as a UK degree-awarding body, giving you a nationally recognised qualification. Teaching quality is rated Silver in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.

Student satisfaction

How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.

The teaching on my course
85%
Learning opportunities
86%
Assessment and feedback
79%
Academic Support
82%
Organisation and management
83%
Learning resources
85%
Student voice
79%

Share of students responding positively.

Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Applicant information

The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.

2027 entry deadlineApply directly to the provider

Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates

PlacementPublished placement option

Work placement. Availability, selection and pay can vary.

Open daysOpen days (opens in new tab/window)

See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.

2026 entryLive availability check

Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.

Entry & how to get in

Most entrants held A-levels or equivalent65% of accepted students came in with A-levels or equivalent (entrants over recent years).
Entry requirements are set by the universityGrades, subjects and contextual offers vary. Check LMU's official course page for the current offer.

Who gets in

What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.

Qualifications held on entry

QualificationShare
A-levels or equivalent65%
another higher-education qualification15%
No / unknown prior qualifications10%
a previous degree5%

Entry & your chances

An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.

Offer-based entry

Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.

How to apply

Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.

Apply byApply directly to the providerfor this course
UCAS codeLL2Fquote this on your application
  1. 1
    Register on UCAS Hub

    Create your UCAS application and add this course (code LL2F). One application covers up to five choices.

  2. 2
    Write your personal statement

    A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.

  3. 3
    Submit by Apply directly to the provider

    Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.

  4. 4
    Reply to your offers

    When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.

  5. 5
    Results day & confirmation

    On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.

💡 Many universities make a contextual (reduced-grade) offer, for example based on your school’s results, time in care, or where you live. Ask LMU whether you’re eligible before you apply; it can lower the grades you need.

Fees & funding

What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.

Tuition per year

Homeup to £9,790 / yr
Internationalset by the university

Standard capped home fee at English providers (2026/27); Scotland, Wales & NI differ.

Check fees at LMU →

For students who normally live in England

illustrative Maintenance Loan per year
Check providertuition used per year, no published course home fee, total not estimated
total borrowing, course length not published

2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.

Starting on or after 1 January 2027?

The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.

Paying for it

  • Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
  • Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
  • Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
  • Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.

England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.

Funding matched to this course

Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for

All LMU funding →
No verified named award is shown for this provider yet.

That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.

We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.

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Career quizApplication walkthroughSalary & CV check

Careers & earnings

What Politics & International Relations graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.

Graduate earnings: this course

WhenMedianTypical rangeGraduates
15 months after£26,000£25,000 – £32,00015
3 years after£22,500£15,500 – £30,500110
5 years after£29,500£22,000 – £37,500105

Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23.

Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course

65%
in work or further study 15 months on
35%
in highly skilled work or study
80%
continue past their first year
80%
find their work meaningful
65%
say work fits their future plans
  1. 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
  2. 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in politics & international relations · 2–5 yrs
  3. 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
  4. 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs

How pay grows: this course vs Politics & International Relations nationally

Starting (15 months) HESA GO
£26,000
£24,000 – £32,000
After 3 years LEO
£22,500
£21,675 – £30,600
After 5 years LEO
£29,500
£27,200 – £38,400
national rangethis course’s medianaxis £20,500 – £40,000

National figures for Politics & International Relations graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.

Work out your pay

Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.

What happened to 100 students?

Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.

65 of 100

were in work or further study

15 months after graduation

55% working5% working and studying10% in further study35% in highly skilled work or study

Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.

Value compared with similar courses

How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Politics & International Relations courses at the same study level.

This course £29,500Peer median £32,000Middle 50% £29,000–£36,000
26th percentile

Compared with 690 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.

UK occupations graduates enter

Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.

  • Caring personal servicesSOC 2020 613 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £23,668
  • Administrative occupationsSOC 2020 41 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £27,006

Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 50; response rate: 60%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.

Job market & outlook

How Politics & International Relations graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.

85%
in work or further study 15 months after graduating, across Politics & International Relations courses nationally.
Graduate Outcomes
60%
of working graduates are in highly skilled work or further study.
highly skilled
90%
of students continue past their first year (still enrolled or completed).
continuation

How AI is changing the work

AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.

What AI takes off your plate

  • Routine information gathering
  • First-draft writing and summaries
  • Standard analysis and admin
  • Repetitive processing tasks

More human than ever

  • Judgement and original thinking
  • Working with and leading people
  • Owning and sense-checking AI output
  • Ethics and accountability

The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.

Roles & employers

Where Politics & International Relations graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.

Where they work

  • Government & civil service (FCDO)
  • Think tanks
  • NGOs
  • Public-affairs agencies

Is this course right for you?

The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.

💷

Student finance

For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.

📈

Where graduates go

65% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £26,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.

Official-data snapshot

Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 7.6 out of 10: NSS 82.7% · in work or study 65% · continued 80%.

Who studies here and in this subject?

Provider- and UK subject-level context.

London Metropolitan University

All students13,665
International22.8%
Aged 25+60.1%

Social sciences across the UK

Students275,900
Aged 25+37%

HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.

Local crime-data context

A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.

Around North

5,613 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.

Anti Social Behaviour 1394Violent Crime 1266Theft From The Person 584Shoplifting 576Other Theft 406

Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.

Is Politics & International Relations right for you?

Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.

International students

What applying to LMU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.

Tuition fees

International tuition is set per course by LMU; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.

English language

Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.

Student visa

You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.

Scholarships & funding

Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check LMU’s funding pages.

Living costs

Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.

Working while you study

A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.

Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with LMU and gov.uk before you apply.

Common questions

Set by LMU. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent. Check the university's course page for the exact offer.
For Social sciences graduates from this provider, 65% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 35% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £26,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years. See Fees & funding on this page to work out your numbers.
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