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Subject
International relations
Develop your global perspective
Want to explore international conflict, cooperation, and competition? An undergraduate degree in international relations will develop your awareness of global complexities, advanced analytical thinking, and the strategic skills sought after by international employers. Establish your international expertise, and prepare to make your mark on our interconnected world.
Course
BA (Hons) International Relations
Explore international relations & global connectedness whilst gaining practical experience through optional placement or study abroad opportunities.
Course
BA (Hons) International Affairs
A one-year final-year entry degree for transfer students wanting to gain insight into global systems, diplomacy, and international affairs.
Course
BA (Hons) International Affairs and Economics
A one-year final-year entry degree for transfer students exploring international affairs and economics, whilst preparing for careers in governance and business.
Course
Integrated Master in Politics: International Relations
Combine undergraduate & postgraduate study to master international relations. Gain advanced skills & global insight with optional placements or study abroad.
Course
Integrated Master in Politics: Politics and International Relations
Fast-track your studies with integrated undergraduate and postgraduate learning, gaining real-world political experience and a professional edge.
Clearing 2026
Get ahead of results day. Explore your Clearing options now and be ready to secure your place with us when the time comes.
Why choose Essex?
- 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
- Top 20 in the UK for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025)
- 12th in the UK for International Relations in the Guardian University Guide (2025)
Elevate your international expertise
Ready to advance your understanding of international diplomacy and power dynamics? A masters degree in international relations provides specialised knowledge of complex global issues, a practical understanding of conflict resolution, and strategic analytical skills valued by international organisations. Build your global skills, and get ready to make a global impact.
Course
We live in an increasingly interconnected and globalised world where events that unfold on other continents can affect our lives very quickly.
Course
We live in an increasingly interconnected and globalised world where events that unfold on other continents can affect our lives very quickly.
Course
Our course helps you understand the evolving field of conflict resolution, exploring the causes and effects of destructive conflict across the world.
Course
Our course helps you understand the evolving field of conflict resolution, exploring the causes and effects of destructive conflict across the world.
Course
We live in an increasingly interconnected and globalised world where events that unfold on other continents can affect our lives very quickly.
Why choose Essex?
- 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
- Top 20 in the UK for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025)
- 91% of our postgraduate graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2024)
Achieve international relations authority
The Department of Government is a powerhouse in the study of international relations. Our PhD programme provides you with advanced research training and supervision by leading global scholars.
Our students have published in prestigious political science journals such as International Organization, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of Politics, Journal of Conflict Resolution, and Journal of Peace Research, among others.
Our Department of Government offers two routes to a research degree:
- PhD Government
- PhP (doctoral programme)
Both are three-year programmes. A PhP is normally for students without a prior Masters degree and you normally take a number of taught modules in your first year.
Find your academic supervisor
Enter your research interest and discover experts open to supervision at the University of Essex.
Research degree
Analyse and explain significant political outcomes such as war and peace, the way governments shape the economy, and the results of the elections.
Research degree
Analyse and explain significant political outcomes such as war and peace, the way governments shape the economy, and the results of the elections.
Research degree
Analyse and explain significant political outcomes such as war and peace, the way governments shape the economy, and the results of the elections.
Why research here?
- 2nd in UK for research outputs in politics and international studies (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
- 6th in UK for research power in politics and international studies (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
- Home to renowned international relations scholars whose research ranks among the most cited and influential globally
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