Politics (Study Abroad)

Why Lancaster?

• Gain a unique perspective on politics, by joining a department unlike any other in the UK, which combines politics, philosophy and religion

• Study a course designed to explore how current events ripple around the world and how nations react

• Explore the politics driving today’s most pressing issues like the cost of living and climate crises

• Learn from experts in British, Russian, and Middle Eastern politics who will share their latest research and discuss world events

• Gain practical experience and enhance your job prospects on an impressive internship with our in-house Richardson Institute for Peace Studies

Global pandemics, economic recession, climate change , migration, and more – there are so many issues facing the political world. Join us to explore power, policy and political process to understand how global leaders are addressing today’s biggest challenges.

Politics of the world
At Lancaster, you’ll learn from our experts in the politics of the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Russia. Through their collective knowledge, you’ll understand that current affairs can no longer be seen through the perspective of one country. There are many international factors at play that influence decisions at home and abroad.

Our Politics, Religion and Philosophy department is the only one of its kind in the UK that combines three disciplines to form a well-rounded understanding of the world.. As part of our community, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take part in contemporary ethical debates and attend engaging events.

Skills for getting ahead
In your final year, you can choose to research and write a dissertation based on a topic of particular interest to you. You’ll receive guidance from up to three expert tutors throughout this time, from choosing a topic and researching this to submitting your final paper.

To stand out when you graduate, you can also apply for one of the internships offered every year by the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, based in our department. These are research projects in external organisations such as NGOs, think tanks, charities and faith-based organisations.

Study abroad
The study abroad option is an exciting opportunity for anyone who is thinking of working abroad during their career or who simply wants the experience of living and studying overseas as part of their degree.
Often study abroad students describe the year abroad as a “transformative experience”, as it can shape your future career path as well as having a positive impact on your personal development.

Experience and skills
You will study in your third year at one of our international partner universities. This will help you to
• develop your global outlook
• expand your professional network
• increase your cultural awareness
• develop your personal skills.

Host universities
During your year abroad, you will choose specialist modules relating to your degree and potentially other modules offered by the host university that are specialisms of that university and country. 
The places available at our overseas partners vary each year, but destinations have previously included Australia, USA, Canada, Europe and Asia.

Alternative option
We will make reasonable endeavours to place students at an approved overseas partner university that offers appropriate modules. Occasionally places overseas may not be available for all students who want to study abroad or the place at the partner university may be withdrawn if core modules are unavailable. If you are not offered a place to study overseas, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent standard 3-year degree scheme and would complete your studies at Lancaster. Lancaster University cannot accept responsibility for any financial aspects of the year abroad.