Overview

The BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations at the University of Essex examines how political ideas, institutions and international forces shape societies and relationships between states. The course combines domestic political analysis with the study of global affairs, enabling students to explore questions of power, governance, conflict and cooperation from multiple perspectives.

What You'll Learn

• Political institutions, systems and processes, with attention to how power is organised and exercised.

• Major political theories and ideas, including debates surrounding democracy, authority, justice and the state.

• International relations and the interactions between states, organisations and other global actors.

• International conflict, security, cooperation and the political causes of global tensions.

• Comparative approaches to understanding different political systems and institutions.

• Contemporary political issues and their connections to wider social and international developments.

• Research methods for collecting, assessing and interpreting political and international evidence.

• Academic skills including critical analysis, independent research, structured argument and clear communication.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to critically analyse political institutions, theories and international developments using appropriate academic frameworks. They will understand how domestic and international political processes interact and be able to assess competing explanations of political events and global issues. Students will also be able to evaluate evidence, conduct independent research and develop coherent arguments supported by relevant sources. The course further develops the ability to communicate complex political and international relations ideas clearly and apply analytical thinking to contemporary issues.