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Politics and international relations courses

Critically engage with national and international politics, interrogate your own political identity and values and apply political ideas to the real world.

Exploring topics like international relations and global crises, we offer undergraduate degrees in politics, as well as masters and research degrees for students who choose further study.

Why study politics and international relations at Sheffield Hallam?

Our politics department is ranked 13th in the UK

We’re ranked 13th in the UK for politics in the Guardian University Guide 2026.

Our politics courses are enriched by expert insights. Hear from visiting speakers, including practitioners and elected representatives, to understand current policy debates and employer expectations.

Gain a critical understanding of institutions, ideologies and theories - exploring issues around social justice, climate change and decolonisation.

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Projects that prepare you for a career in politics

Learn in our nationally ranked politics department, where you’ll build the foundations for careers in policy analysis, governance, activism or communication. You will:

  • Apply political ideas to real-world challenges through activities that develop evidence-based analysis and communication.
  • Study in a global context - with opportunities to travel abroad, visit embassies and interact with policymakers and politicians.

Previous students have worked on projects with local MPs offices, the police service, schools, council departments, the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and community associations.

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Practise your skills with likeminded students

Debate, influence and publish articles to drive social change - building your network through student-run societies, academic staff and external partners. You can:

  • Take part in debates, talks and events through active student communities.
  • Publish your work and strengthen your voice on contemporary political issues.
  • Get involved in Model United Nations (MUN) simulations to practise critical thinking, public speaking and negotiation skills.
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Why choose us?

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Teaching

Rated Gold in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for the outstanding quality of our teaching and graduate outcomes

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Career-ready

We promise hands-on learning, industry connections and lifelong career support to help make your ambition a reality

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13th in the UK

Our politics courses are ranked 13th in the UK according to the Guardian University Guide 2026

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We're a top-rated Yorkshire university

At the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026, students voted us as Yorkshire's top university across a number of categories:

  • Career prospects and student support
  • Facilities and university halls
  • Teaching quality and international student experience
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