Where to Study International Relations

Heya,
I'm looking into postgraduate programs for International Relations in the UK, but I'm having a tough time figuring out which program is "best." I've received offers from Aberystwyth, Swansea, Cardiff, and Edinburgh, but I'm looking for advice as to how to pick the best program for me. I don't mind smaller towns and loved Aberystwyth when I visited, so I am leaning toward there for financial reasons.

Any advice or opinions is appreciated!

Reply 1

Aberystwyth University Student Ambassador

Hi there!

It’s fantastic that you’ve received offers from such great universities, and even better to hear that you’re leaning towards Aberystwyth! Whilst I'm not studying International Relations, I can definitely share some insights about Aberystwyth and why it might be a strong choice for your studies.

Aberystwyth has an exceptional reputation in International Politics. The Department of International Politics, is the oldest of its kind in the world (founded in 1919), and it continues to be a leader in the field. The department has been ranked Top in the UK for Course Satisfaction and Top in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction in Politics and a lot more awards!

One of the things about studying International Politics at Aberystwyth is the diverse range of modules available. There are various topics from Russian Security, Climate Change, Nationalism, Modern Warfare, and a lot more! The program offers a wide selection of options to tailor your degree to your interests. This is in addition to the strong core modules that equip you with essential skills and knowledge, ensuring you graduate with a solid amount of knowledge on the the field.

In terms of location, Aberystwyth is a wonderful town to live and study in, especially if you don’t mind a smaller, quieter setting. The town has a beautiful seafront, stunning sunsets, and a welcoming community that makes it easy to settle in and focus on your studies. Living costs here are also much more affordable. Despite its size, Aberystwyth has a lively student atmosphere, with plenty of events, societies, and opportunities to meet people.

If you have any specific questions about life at Aberystwyth or want more details about the International Politics program, feel free to ask. Best of luck with your decision! You've got some fantastic options!

All the best,
Mostafa
Student Ambassador

Reply 2

nxdthh

Is there anyone who received an offer to study at Aberystwyth for the fall?!

Reply 3

cerhiraeth

Original post

by nxdthh

Is there anyone who received an offer to study at Aberystwyth for the fall?!

Me 🙂 I'll be there!

Reply 4

nxdthh

Original post

by cerhiraeth

Me 🙂 I'll be there!

Cool! Which course?

Reply 5

UEA Rep Daniel

Official Rep

Hi there,

Sounds like you’ve already got a great set of offers, congrats! 🎉 And it’s brilliant that you’ve visited Aberystwyth and felt a connection; that gut feeling is definitely not something to ignore, especially when you'll be living and studying somewhere for a year or more.

When it comes to choosing the "best" International Relations postgraduate program, it really depends on your goals. Are you more academically inclined and thinking of going into research or a PhD? Or are you aiming for a career in diplomacy, NGOs, policy, or international business? Different unis lean into different strengths, some are more theoretical, others more applied.

If you're still weighing up options, I’d definitely suggest looking into UEA (University of East Anglia) as well, if it's not already on your list. The School of Politics, Philosophy, Language and Communication Studies at UEA has a really strong IR postgraduate program with modules focused on global conflict, development, and security – and what’s great is the flexibility to tailor your path. Norwich is also a lovely, historic city — easy to get around, affordable, and has a real sense of community. It’s not as overwhelming as bigger cities, which can be ideal for postgrad study.

Wherever you go, make sure the course structure, available modules, dissertation support, and overall vibe match what you're looking for. You’ve already done the hard part by getting offers, now it’s about finding the place that will help you thrive both academically and personally.

Happy to help you compare a couple of courses or cities more closely if you’d like! 😊

Best,
Daniel
PhD Biology

Reply 6

CardiffUni Rep 4

Official Rep

Original post

by cerhiraeth

Hi there!

Congratulations on receiving so many offers - that's amazing!
I'm doing my postgrad here at Cardiff, and I did my undergrad here as well, and I love it so much! I don't do international relations, but I am quite familiar with the school of politics and international relations, i'm going to try break it down a bit, why it might be as great for you, as it is for me.

Why Study with us in the school of politics and international relations?

•

We have links with Welsh Government, Westminster, G7, the United Nations, NATO, NGOs, policy-makers and journalists.

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We achieved the highest possible score of 4.0 for research impact (Politics and International Studies, REF 2021).

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We have a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment hosting regular research seminars and visiting speakers.

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Specialist module options built on the distinctive and cross-disciplinary opportunities afforded by our expertise in law, politics and international relations.

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The staff are internationally renowned, and experts in their fields

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We offer the latest e-learning facilities and a library equipped with relevant resources for your course of study, ensuring that you have a first-class environment in which to study - The Cardiff Law Library is described as 'outstanding' by the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales.

Why Cardiff Uni overall?

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We have the 2nd best Students' union in the UK! And it lives up to that, there's so many societies, events, and services available. From sports, hobbies, to professional development events and societies, there really is everything.

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It has set me up well for my career after, with many specialised accreditations, corporate links, and Russell group status. The uni as a whole run things like, networking events and stands, interview practice, LinkedIn headshots, and more!

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The staff are so lovely, and there's lots of support for you, from mental support to career support to subject and skills based support.

Why live in Cardiff as a student?

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It is so walkable! For me, nothing is more than a 20 minute walk, we have the huge Bute park, a lovely city centre with a range of shops, cafes and restaurants. Most students all live in Cathays, which is right next to the main uni buildings (including the buildings you would be in). The bay and other further natural spaces are really nice and refreshing when living in a city.

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There's a great sense of community, helped by everyone living so close, and helped by the SU.

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It is pretty affordable, with many student accommodation options (sharing and private). And opportunities to work around studies, regularly or ad-hoc, especially through our student service - Jobshop.