Arts & Humanities
Politics and International Relations
Politics and International Relations examines the theory and practice of government, political behavior, and global affairs. Students analyze political systems, international conflicts, diplomacy, and the role of international organizations in shaping the modern world.
Program objectives
- 01Understand major political theories and the functioning of different government systems.
- 02Analyze the causes and consequences of international conflicts and cooperation.
- 03Evaluate the role and effectiveness of international organizations and non-governmental actors.
- 04Develop strong research, critical analysis, and academic writing skills.
Why choose this program
Deep understanding of global power
Teaches you to look beyond headlines to understand the systemic forces driving global events.
Strong research and communication skills
Highly valued in fields like journalism, public policy, law, and non-profit management.
Relevance to current events
Provides the analytical tools to understand and engage with pressing issues like migration, security, and human rights.
Skills you'll build
- Qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Policy analysis
- Survey design
- Academic writing
- Critical thinking
- Cultural awareness
- Objective analysis
- Persuasive communication
Tools & software
- SPSS
- NVivo
- Microsoft Excel
- Census and polling data portals
Challenges to expect
Academic
- Reading dense theoretical texts and grasping abstract political and philosophical concepts.
Technical
- Learning to code and analyze qualitative interview or historical data can be time-consuming.
Financial
- Fieldwork or studying abroad, which is highly recommended, may require additional financial resources.
Personal
- Confronting harsh political realities, conflicts, and inequalities can be emotionally challenging.
Tips from the field
- Connect theoretical concepts to current news events to make the material more engaging and memorable.
- Seek internships with NGOs, government agencies, or political campaigns to gain practical experience.
- Develop strong writing skills, as clear, persuasive communication is essential for policy and research roles.
Career paths
- Policy analyst
- Diplomat
- Political risk consultant
- NGO program manager
- Journalist
Where you can study this
| Name | Latest cutoff | Tuition (annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Lancaster University GhanaBA | — | USD 9,000–9,000 |
FAQs
Is Politics and International Relations the same as Political Science?+
They are very closely related. Political Science often focuses more on domestic government systems and behavior, while International Relations emphasizes global dynamics, though most degrees blend both.
What kind of math is required for this degree?+
Primarily introductory statistics, which is necessary for understanding and conducting quantitative political research and analyzing polling data.
Can I work in business with this degree?+
Yes, graduates are valued in business for roles in government relations, corporate social responsibility, and geopolitical risk analysis.
Do I need to study a foreign language?+
It is not always mandatory, but learning a second language is highly recommended and significantly boosts your employability in international careers.
Is a master's degree necessary for a career in this field?+
For entry-level research or outreach roles, a bachelor's is often sufficient. However, a master's is typically required for senior policy analyst, diplomatic, or academic roles.
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