Program Overview

On the Politics and International Relations course in the Department of International Politics at Aberystwyth University, you will examine the political landscape past and present, learning about key political concepts such as power, democracy, freedom, inequality, rights, citizenship, representation and legitimacy, and how these are contested in contemporary politics.

You will explore different political systems and global institutions and will learn about the driving forces behind political, economic, and social cultural changes across the world. You will also grapple with the challenges facing the international system, such as globalisation, international security, the environment, inequality, global health, conflict and post-conflict environments.

You will study current political debates such as the future of the UK after Brexit, climate change, dilemmas of modern migration, the rise of populist nationalism, the future of democracy, and the ways in which these are influencing radical transformation in the twenty-first century.

Throughout the course, you will explore different arguments, rival theories and alternative explanations - thereby building up the analytical skills that are important in the workplace.

Opportunities for Politics and International Relations students at Aberystwyth include:

• Participating in our renowned ‘Crisis Games’ - a 3-day role-playing exercise in political, economic and diplomatic manoeuvres which will develop your negotiation and communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Taking part in our prestigious Parliamentary Placement Scheme, which enables you to gain valuable experience working alongside an MP (House of Commons, Westminster) or an AM (Welsh Assembly, Cardiff) for a period of 4-6 weeks during the summer
• Being taught by expert lecturers who are committed to providing you with an outstanding and dynamic learning environment.