Overview:

Politics and International Relations examines how political systems, institutions, ideas, and international forces shape societies and relationships between states. At the University of Sheffield, the course provides a foundation for understanding political change and global affairs while developing the analytical skills needed to assess complex contemporary issues.

What You'll Learn:

• Core concepts and approaches used to study politics and international relations.

• The structures and processes through which political institutions and systems operate.

• Major political ideas and debates, including how different perspectives explain power, authority, and governance.

• Key themes in international relations and the ways states interact within the wider international system.

• Political developments and issues that influence societies and relationships across borders.

• Approaches to interpreting political evidence, evaluating arguments, and engaging with academic debates.

• Research and analytical methods that support the study of political and international questions.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students will be able to explain key concepts and theories in politics and international relations and apply them to relevant political questions. They will be able to examine political institutions, systems, and international relationships using appropriate analytical perspectives, while recognising how different interpretations can shape understanding of political events and issues. Students will also develop the ability to locate, assess, and use relevant evidence in support of reasoned arguments. Through structured analysis and research, they will be able to compare competing viewpoints, identify strengths and limitations in political arguments, and communicate their conclusions clearly. The course will provide a structured understanding of how domestic and international political processes interact, enabling students to approach complex political questions with greater critical awareness and independence.