Why do international conflicts arise? What determines a country's foreign policy? What are the prospects for international cooperation, necessary to address problems like global warming and environmental degradation?
Politics and political events dominate domestic and international news, impacting on our day-to-day lives as well as shaping the future. Beginning with an overview of international relations in your first year, from global political economy to studies of conflict of security, you then have a choice of topics to explore, such as:
- Comparative politics
- International political economy
- Political theory
- Politics of the Middle East
You also study up to two of the languages offered at Essex: French, German, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese, completing at least one language to Mastery level. Each of these languages is widely used in the business world, and can take you to a level of near-fluency. Many of our graduates go on to develop successful global careers with international firms looking for language specialists.
We also offer a month-long summer course abroad with fees paid for by us if you start your main language from scratch via the intensive route.
We are 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021). We are also Top 10 in the UK for politics and international studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
If you want a global outlook, are interested in human communication, and want to study for a degree with real-world practical value in a world-class department, welcome to Essex.
