Politics and International Relations

Student is walking across the road in front of the Houses of Parliament

Global challenges up close

Explore the ideas and forces shaping politics. In this dynamic, research-led department, you’ll benefit from our world-renowned academics and links to London’s policy and advocacy institutions. Build the skills and confidence to engage with today’s complex political challenges.

Top reasons to study Politics and International Relations at Queen Mary

Our mission is to expand opportunities, provide outstanding education, produce world-leading research, and engage with social and political issues.
Benefit from attending unique seminars and events that directly connect the policy-making world with the academic world.
Our award-winning Careers and Enterprise team provides students with support, practical guidance, and opportunities to connect and network with industry leaders through mentorship, internship, and work placement programmes.
Our esteemed alumni have gone on to work for prestigious organisations such as the House of Commons, Google, UK Civil Service, Department of Health and Social Care, and many others.

6thFor research quality

(THE 2025)

10th in the UK for Politics

(QS University Rankings by Subject 2026)

94%in work or further study within 15 months of graduating

(GOS 2024)

Scholarships up to £8,000

We are delighted to offer scholarships for highly qualified international offer holders joining us in January and September 2027.

Find out if you're eligible

MA International Political Economy

Designed to tackle today's global challenges - such as globalisation, financial crises, inequality, and the environmental crisis.

MA International Political Sociology

An interdisciplinary field that combines international relations with disciplines such as sociology, geography, law, history, and anthropology.

MSc International Public Policy

You will be able to deepen your understanding of policymaking in key countries and world regions, notably Africa, the Middle East, China, and India.

MSc Public Policy

Investigate development issues, with a strong interest in the comparative analysis of policy for the developing world. 

MRes Public Policy

Perfect for students to develop policy analysis skills and pursue a research career in academia, civil service, or the private and voluntary sectors.

MSc International Business and Politics

Discuss the various interpretations of capitalism, explore contemporary manifestations, and understand the politics of international business.

MA International Relations

Thought-provoking modules based on modern-day issues and discussion points, such as EU-UK relations, the Pandemic, and the War in Ukraine.

PGDip International Relations

This thought-provoking programme is your chance to dissect and discuss cutting-edge subjects relevant to today’s political landscape.

MRes International Relations

Delve into key issues affecting the current political landscape and hold a lense to the most recent and exciting developments in world politics.

I was mesmerised by the teaching staff at Queen Mary and the variety of subjects that I could choose to study. One of the greatest advantages that I received during my masters was the support and expertise that was shared with me during my dissertation preparation and submission.
— Vasylisa Bondarenko, MSc Public Policy (2021)

Ready to apply?

If you have found your perfect programme then start your application with us today

Apply now

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