International Relations and Politics with Foundation Year

On this foundation year course, you'll learn everything you need to know to work towards a full undergraduate degree in international relations and politics.

You might not yet have the entry requirements you need, you might be returning to studying after some time away, or maybe you need to build your confidence and study skills before you're ready. This foundation year degree will ensure you're prepared to take your next steps.

You'll study with us for a year on campus at the University, through ICP. You'll get the knowledge and academic skills needed to take on a bachelor's degree, learning how to analyse information, do research, and improve your academic writing.

What you'll learn will help you work in teams as well as on your own in culturally diverse workplaces. You'll develop your understanding of new workplaces and environments, and how to adapt to new environments.

After your foundation year, you'll be ready to move onto the first year of BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics.

Course highlights
• ICP is based on the University of Portsmouth campus so you'll have access to all facilities, support and societies



• When you finish your foundation year successfully, you get a guaranteed place on BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics



• Get used to how lectures, seminars and tutorials work, so you can move onto your degree ready for success



• Learn how to meet the demands of taking on a bachelor's at university



Careers and opportunities
Gaining a qualification in international relations and politics helps you make sense of the world and the forces that shape nations today.

Once you've completed your foundation year, you'll progress on to our full BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics degree. You'll analyse the global and local issues influencing societies around the world and exploring politics theory in action through the latest developments in British and international politics.

With a Bachelor's degree in international relations and politics, you'll be set for careers across a range of areas, including local and national government, international diplomacy, security, lobbying, academic research, the charity sector and the media.

Placement year opportunities
Once you've completed your foundation year and moved on to your full Bachelor's degree, you can do an optional work placement year to get valuable longer-term work experience in the industry.

Taking an optional placement year will give you the experience you need to increase your chances of landing your perfect role. We'll give you all the support you need to find a placement that prepares you for your career, and we'll continue to mentor you throughout your placement.

Previous students have been on placements to organisations such as:


• The Ministry of Defence



• The House of Commons



• National Museum of the Royal Navy



• Otra Cosa (Peru)



• SEK International



• Freedom from Torture



• Victim Support London



• Tools for Self Reliance

All Clearing students are guaranteed an offer of a room in halls (terms and conditions apply), giving you added confidence as you plan your next steps. Full details can be found on the University of Portsmouth website.

By signing up for Priority Clearing, you can receive accommodation information straight to your inbox, along with exclusive access to Portsmouth’s Clearing Visit Day on Thursday 6 August. Priority Clearing applicants benefit from queue-jump status on Results Day, as well as exclusive updates, invitations to Clearing Webinars and personalised one-to-one application support.

The Clearing Visit Day offers you the chance to experience Portsmouth’s welcoming campus and vibrant student community first-hand before you enrol. With guaranteed accommodation, you can feel reassured that you’ll be at the heart of university life from day one.