International Relations

Why International Relations at Southampton

University of Southampton ranks 11th nationally for graduate prospects in the Complete University Guide Rankings 2025, with 97.6% of bachelor’s graduates entering employment or further study within six months. Students access world-class research databases—from Cambridge Core Journals to Oxford Scholarship Online—while opportunities for placements across Europe, East and Southeast Asia, and North America help them apply theoretical knowledge in international settings.

International Relations

The BSc International Relations examines conflict roots, instability patterns, and poverty-reduction strategies while students explore how major powers shape foreign policy and how institutions like the UN and WTO operate. Though the core provides this foundation, the programme offers specialization pathways through British, EU, or US politics alongside criminology, economics, and ethics modules. Field seminars in Whitehall and Westminster complement classroom learning, while a year-long placement or study abroad option develops analytical thinking and data skills that national governments, think tanks, and international organizations seek.

Politics and International Relations

BSc Politics and International Relations weaves political theory through contemporary challenges—globalization, migration, constitutional law, and security issues—as students analyze real cases involving public policy, US foreign decisions, and WTO activities. Field visits to government offices and a year abroad option strengthen practical preparation, while graduates move into civil service, NGOs, political consulting, or journalism. The programme builds professionals who assess international situations critically and formulate responses when conditions shift unpredictably.

Modern History at University of Southampton

The Modern History and Politics dual degree traces how Western Europe, America, Africa, and South Asia shaped current realities. Students examine rare exhibits from university collections during curatorial museum visits while analyzing democratic systems, comparative politics, and international relations. A year in Europe, the US, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, or Australia expands cultural perspective, though a placement year offers an alternative that enhances practical experience and employability.

International Security and Risk

MSc International Security and Risk addresses cyber threats, terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction through interdisciplinary methods blending security studies, cybersecurity, and advanced risk analysis. Students apply historical, social, technological, and military approaches to real policy contexts while developing practical recommendations for global security agendas. Examining threats from states and non-state actors, graduates gain the capacity to make informed decisions when strategic uncertainties emerge.