Course Overview

Exploring the themes, concepts and events that have shaped the contemporary political scene, you will begin your degree with our core course in Politics and Governance in the Contemporary World and can also choose courses from two other departments.

As you continue with your studies, you'll learn from academics committed to both teaching and research and will increasingly specialise through an extensive range of modules which focus on topical questions concerning government and politics in Britain, Europe and the world. Your second-year options include Politics of Development; Politics of the European Union, and Modern Political Thought.

In your final year, you have the opportunity to undertake a sustained investigation on a specific political subject of greatest interest to you and can choose from a wide range of modules, such as Africa and Global Politics; Islamic Politics, and Liberals and Communitarians.

The lecturers are very approachable and helpful and I have met some amazing friends

Career opportunities

Many of our graduates use their skills in research, analysis and communication to follow careers directly related to Politics and International Relations, such as the Civil Service, government or public affairs. Graduates of Peace Studies and International Relations have also found their degree valuable for careers with international charities and other NGOs.

Studying abroad has helped Lancaster graduates show employers impartial judgement, flexibility and a detailed knowledge of international developments. Other graduates have used their degree as a foundation for careers in commerce, industry, accountancy, law, teaching, academic work, journalism or the armed forces. The intellectual and practical skills of peace-making give our graduates a good foundation for careers in mediation, social work, conflict resolution and human rights campaigning.