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What prevents democratic nations from engaging in war with each other? Why is voter turnout lower among younger demographics? Who bears responsibility for funding climate change initiatives? How do oil-rich nations tend to have poorer human rights protections? These critical questions form the foundation of our BA Politics & International Relations program. Hosted by one of Europe's most esteemed government departments, this program offers deep insights into both domestic and global political systems. You'll gain comprehensive knowledge across all key political science and international relations disciplines while developing valuable research and analytical skills that employers highly value. Our curriculum covers an extensive array of subjects, including: - Human rights and global equity - Electoral processes and voter behavior - Conflict resolution and peacekeeping operations - Political dimensions of environmental crises - Social movements and democratic transitions - International economic policies and development At Essex, we cultivate critical thinkers who can confidently interrogate assumptions, substantiate arguments with robust evidence, and challenge conventional wisdom. We push you to think ambitiously while grounding your perspectives in diverse facts and theories. Our Government Department boasts exceptional achievements in teaching and research, ranking 6th in the UK for research influence in politics and international studies (Times Higher Education, REF 2021). International Study Opportunities We encourage you to broaden your horizons through our study abroad programs. The four-year degree option includes a year or term at one of our partner institutions overseas, while maintaining the same curriculum as the three-year program. This international experience enhances your cultural awareness, academic perspective, and demonstrates valuable adaptability to future employers. Full-year abroad students pay only 15% of standard Essex tuition fees, with no additional charges at the host institution. Professional Placement Option Alternatively, you may opt for a third-year placement with an external organization, gaining practical experience in your field. While you'll independently secure your placement, our department and Careers Centre provide full support throughout the process. Placement year students pay just 20% of regular tuition fees.
A-levels: BBB - BBC or 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels, including B in one essay based subject.
BTEC: DDM - DMM or 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of the equivalent of 2 full A-levels. 
Combined qualifications on the UCAS tariff: 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A levels or equivalent. 
IB: 30 - 29 points or three Higher Level certificates with 555-554.
IB Career-related Programme: We consider combinations of IB Diploma Programme courses with BTECs or other qualifications. 
QAA-approved Access to HE Diploma: 6 level 3 credits at Distinction and 39 level 3 credits at Merit, depending on subject studied - advice on acceptability can be provided
T-levels: We consider T-levels on a case-by-case basis, depending on subject studied. The offer for most courses is Distinction overall. Depending on the course applied for there may be additional requirements, which may include a specific grade in the Core.
IELTS - 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, TOEFL IBT - 76 overall, with a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing