The United Kingdom boasts a number of prestigious universities known for their exceptional programs in International Relations. These institutions have a strong reputation for producing graduates who go on to have successful careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and academia. The top UK universities for International Relations are recognized for their world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and diverse student body.
Students who choose to study International Relations at one of these top universities in the UK can expect to receive a comprehensive education that covers a wide range of topics, including international politics, global economics, and conflict resolution.
Many of these institutions offer opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs, internships, and research projects that allow them to gain practical experience and develop valuable skills. Additionally, students benefit from networking opportunities with professionals in the field and access to resources such as libraries, archives, and specialized centers.
Graduates of these top UK universities for International Relations are well-equipped to pursue careers in a variety of fields, including government, non-profit organizations, and multinational corporations.
The skills and knowledge they acquire during their studies prepare them to analyze complex global issues, communicate effectively with diverse audiences, and work collaboratively with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds.
Below is the list of the best UK Universities for International Relations. Studying International Relations at one of these top UK universities gives you a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in the field.
Top 10 UK Universities for International Relations
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford | Oxford, England |
| 2 | London School of Economics and Political Science | London, England |
| 3 | University of Cambridge | Cambridge, England |
| 4 | University College London | London, England |
| 5 | University of Warwick | Coventry, England |
| 6 | University of Edinburgh | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| 7 | King’s College London | London, England |
| 8 | University of Manchester | Manchester, England |
| 9 | University of Bristol | Bristol, England |
| 10 | University of Glasgow | Glasgow, Scotland |
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, and its Department of Politics and International Relations is no exception. The department offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Master’s in International Relations and a DPhil in Politics and International Relations. Students benefit from the university’s extensive resources, including access to world-class libraries and research centers.
2. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is renowned for its expertise in social sciences, including International Relations. LSE’s Department of International Relations is one of the oldest and most respected in the world, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The department’s faculty includes leading scholars and researchers in the field, ensuring students receive a top-notch education.
3. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge’s Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) is another leading institution for International Relations. POLIS offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Master’s in International Relations and Politics and a PhD in Politics and International Studies. The department’s faculty includes renowned scholars and researchers, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the university’s extensive library system.
4. University College London (UCL)
University College London (UCL) is home to the Department of Political Science, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in International Relations. The department’s faculty includes leading scholars and researchers in the field, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the UCL Library and the Institute of the Americas.
5. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick’s Department of Politics and International Studies is another top institution for International Relations. The department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Master’s in International Political Economy and a PhD in Politics and International Studies. The department’s faculty includes renowned scholars and researchers, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the university’s extensive library system.
6. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh’s School of Social and Political Science is home to the Department of Politics and International Relations, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in International Relations.
The department boasts a faculty of top scholars and researchers, ensuring students have access to a plethora of resources, including the university’s expansive library system.
7. King’s College London
King’s College London’s Department of Political Economy is another top institution for International Relations. The department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Master’s in International Political Economy and a PhD in Politics and International Studies.
The department’s faculty includes renowned scholars and researchers, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the university’s extensive library system.
8. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester’s School of Social Sciences is home to the Department of Politics, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in International Relations. Within the department, there are distinguished scholars and researchers who offer students access to a wide range of resources, including the university’s comprehensive library system.
9. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol’s School of Sociology, Politics, and International Studies is another top institution for International Relations. The department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Master’s in International Relations and a PhD in Politics and International Studies. The faculty within the department consists of top scholars and researchers, providing students with abundant resources which include the university’s vast library system.
10. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow’s School of Social and Political Sciences is home to the Department of Politics, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in International Relations. The department’s faculty includes leading scholars and researchers in the field, and students have access to a wealth of resources, including the university’s extensive library system.
The top 10 universities listed above are renowned for their academic excellence, research output, and faculty expertise in the field of International Relations. Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, these institutions provide an exceptional education and resources to help you succeed in your academic and professional pursuits.