Welcome to Politics, International Relations and International Development at Birmingham

By studying Politics and or International Relations and Development at Birmingham, you will learn about some of the world’s most pressing developing challenges

What is Politics, International Relations and Development?

Our politics degrees will give you the tools to think critically about how power is exercised, how political decisions are made, and who makes these decisions, while developing your knowledge and practical skills.

Our BA International Relations and Development degrees will give you an understanding of politics, history, geography, economics and law. They will also explore complex development challenges, from inequality, migration, conflict and climate change.

Why study at Birmingham?

  • You will have the opportunity to undertake a work placement through our integrated Professional Development Module.
  • You will have the chance to take part in an International Model NATO Conference in Washington DC. This experience provides you with a unique opportunity to participate in a role-play exercise of decision-making at NATO, working with delegates from universities and institutions across the globe. 
  • Studying at the University of Birmingham will boost your employability prospects - we are ranked number one for being targeted by the top UK employers (High Fliers Research 2021)
  • You will be taught by world-class academics, engaged in cutting-edge research that impacts policies and debates across the globe.

What programmes are on offer?

Upcoming Events

Virtual Offer-Holder Visit Day - Politics

This is a subject-specific event specifically for offer-holders, designed to give you all of the information you need for the next stage of your applicant journey: deciding where you want to study.

You can book onto your chosen event via the link below (please search for Politics on the drop down menu).

Book your Virtual Offer-Holder Visit Day

Campus Tours

We know it’s important that you get a chance to visit your future university and a campus tour is the perfect way to explore our beautiful campus and get that Birmingham feeling. Campus tours for visitors interested in Undergraduate study take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11.00 am and 2.00 pm. The walking tours are led by an undergraduate student currently studying at the University.

Book a Campus Tour

reading recommended by our lecturers

Here are some texts suggested by some staff members which you may like to use as a stepping-off point for your own thinking. However, as the teaching staff at the University of Birmingham bring a rich diversity of approach, it’s not possible to suggest a single textbook or text that will be used.

""Aruzza, C., Fraser, N., and Bhattacharya, T. (2019). Feminism for the 99%

""Jerven, M. (2013). Poor numbers

""

Kothari, U. (2019). A radical history of development studies 

Capitalism A Ghost StoryRoy, A. (2014). Capitalism: A ghost story

Podcasts to listen to

""

The Rest is Politics by Goalhanger Podcasts.

Hosted by former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy, Alastair Campbell, and cabinet minister, Rory Stewart, this podcast shares an insight into on politics in the UK

""

Political Thinking with Nick Robinson by BBC Radio 4

A conversation with people who shape the way we think about politics.

oxford society for international development

Oxford Society for International Development

Interviewing key thinkers and leaders in the field, this podcast discuses some of the biggest challenges facing today’s global society.

What support is available?

Clubs and Societies

Whether it’s a hobby you have had for years, or you’re looking to try something new, there are over 500 societies to choose from at the University of Birmingham – meaning there is something for everyone! Find out more the clubs and societies at the University of Birmingham

  • The University of Birmingham Politics Society is a society for anyone interested in or studying politics, hosting a range of events including socials, sports, academic, careers and employability events. 
  • The University of Birmingham Women in Politics is a fun and welcoming space to meet and socialise with like-minded people, organising a range of events from social gatherings, speaker events and charity events.  
  • The International Development Society meets fortnightly and it provides you with the opportunity to get involved in topical debates and global developments, as well as socials, conferences, student panels, field trips, and volunteering opportunities. 

Careers Support

At Birmingham, we have a dedicated careers service, the Careers Network, that can provide you with guidance and support to help you succeed after university. The service offers 1:1 consultations, workshops, fairs, and more to help you make the most of your time at University. 

Student support

Coming to University is a big life change – and there might be times where you need extra support. Here at the University of Birmingham, there is plenty of support available to students to help with anything from stress to money advice, study support, and more. 

Our campus

If you have ever visited our campus, you can probably understand why so many students choose to study at Birmingham.  

We have the best of both worlds; our campus is not only a green and beautiful place to learn but is also a thriving hub of student life. It’s also only a stone’s throw from the city centre, which is perfect for those students who want a balance of a city and a campus experience.  

Student life in Birmingham

With more miles of canal than Venice and more trees than Paris, the UK’s cosmopolitan Second City can rival any European capital. Nestling in the big heart of England, Birmingham’s prime central location is what sets it apart.

Take a virtual tour of our campus

Studying at Birmingham

Jack Turturici

BA Politics Student

“The wide breadth of optional modules and areas of study available for my course was particularly enticing as I could tailor my degree to my specific interests.”

Join our Facebook groups to connect with other students who have offers from the University of Birmingham! The group is a great place to meet like-minded people and to ask questions about the programme and University.   

POLSIS FACEBOOK GROUP IDD FACEBOOK GROUP