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Politics & International Relations

Politics & International Relations

Undergraduate (Level 8 NFQ , Credits 180 )
The study of politics examines national and international political institutions, systems and forces. These include governments, parliaments, parties and elections, as well as international alliances and conflicts, human rights, global poverty, war and political violence. Studying Politics will also help you to develop your analytical skills, formulate an argument and express yourself clearly in writing.
For more information regarding this course, please click School of Politics and International Relations

How do I apply?


For EU students, please apply via MyUCD. The following entry route(s) are available:
Description ENTRY Duration Application Opening Date APPURL
Politics & International Relations(BAU5) - Undergraduate Degree (Non EU) Entry in
Full Time - 3 Year(s) Apply from -
Oct 2023		 Apply

What will I study?

In first year, you will be introduced to the core areas of politics giving you a solid foundation for future study. In subsequent years you will pursue the areas of politics and international relations that interest you most.

Students attend lectures and tutorials as well as undertaking independent study.

Assessment is in the form of a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester written exams.

What modules can I take?

Click below to for all course modules:

Politics & International RelationsBAU5

Career & Graduate Study Opportunity

There is a wide range of national and international employment opportunities in the public and private sector, including:

  • The Irish Civil Service
  • The European Commision
  • International agencies such as the UN, IMF and World Bank
  • NGOs
  • Print and broadcasting media
  • The diplomatic service
  • Business
  • Administration and research
    Graduates are also well qualified to pursue further study at master’s and PhD level. MA and MSc programmes at UCD include:

  • Politics
  • Political Theory
  • International Relations
  • Development Studies
  • Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict
  • Human Rights
  • European Public Affairs and Law
  • Development Practice

    • International Study Opportunities

    The school currently has Erasmus exchange agreements with the following European universities:

  • Institut d'Etudes Politiques, Paris, France
  • University of Bergen, Norway
  • Université Libre de Bruxelles/University of Liège, Belgium
  • University of Lund/University of Stockholm, Sweden
  • Universität zu Köln, Germany
    International exchanges in North America, Asia and Australia are also available in third year.