Program Overview

Engage with key issues in world politics, from the BlackLivesMatter and MeToo movements to the climate crisis. Think critically about the ideas and institutions that shape our lives, learning how to analyse data to inform your arguments. It’s such an interesting time to study politics and international relations; join the conversation.

Explore the complex way in which societies, states and cultures interact around the world. Our innovative lecturers provide expert insights into issues from human rights and feminism to war and security. Develop the skills so you can make a difference.

The Foundation Year offers students from a wide variety of educational backgrounds and age groups access to university education and prepares you for our three-year Politics and International Relations degrees. On passing your Foundation Year you move on to the first year of our BA (Hons) programme.

Reasons to study Politics and International Relations with a Foundation Year at Kent

• You’ll study a wide range of modules developed by our innovative lecturers, who advise governments around the world. Build your degree around your interests.
• You join the supportive and welcoming community on our Canterbury campus, set among green and tranquil open spaces, with access to the world-class resources of our Templeman Library.
• You can shape your degree outside of the classroom through our Politics and IR Society and Kent Model UN. These student-led societies host regular events, talks and debates with high-profile speakers, such as Jess Phillips MP, on tackling domestic violence.

What you’ll learn
You learn to explore the challenges facing the world, utilising the different concepts and approaches of political theory. You benefit from the expertise of staff who have advised governments and conducted conflict mediation exercises, deepening your understanding and developing solutions to a range of issues, from terrorism to the impact of the pandemic on politics, and political polarisation.