Politics degrees
From the rise of emerging powers to the fundamental threat of climate change, from unprecedented challenges to international institutions to the re-emergence of nationalisms, today’s political environment is ridden with uncertainty and anxieties.
Study Politics at the University of Exeter
Our highly ranked Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy, and Anthropology offers an exciting range of programmes at both the Streatham Campus in Exeter and at our Penryn Campus in Cornwall.
Publishing in world-leading outlets, we conduct research on a wide range of fascinating issues such as extremist propaganda, authoritarian systems, climate change politics, and use cutting-edge methods such as brain imaging, big data analysis, and experimental approaches.
The department's strong research culture is reflected in our regular seminars and workshops and visits from internationally renowned scholars.
Our Politics degrees and courses
Our Politics degrees are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter and on our Penryn Campus in Cornwall.
Undergraduate degrees in Exeter
Undergraduate degrees in Cornwall
Masters degrees
Related subjects
If you are interested in studying our Politics at university, we suggest also exploring our International Relations, Security Studies, and Sociology courses. You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 15 in the UK for Politics
14th in the Complete University Guide 2026
Top 100 in the world for Political Sciences
Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) or Shanghai Rankings 2025
Top 10 in the UK for our world-leading Politics and International Studies research
Based on 4* research in the Research Excellence Framework 2021
The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026
Frequently asked questions about studying Politics
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if a Politics degree is right for you.
What career prospects would I have with a Politics degree from Exeter?
Studying Politics and International Relations strengthens your analytical, research, and communication skills as you examine global issues such as power, governance, conflict, and cooperation. These skills open the door to a wide range of careers across diverse sectors.
Find out more about your future career with a degree in Politics.
Can international students apply for Politics degrees?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
Politics and International Relations: Which campus is right for you?
At our Streatham Campus in Exeter, you'll become part of one of the UK's largest, most highly-rated Politics departments, with access to a huge range of world-leading researchers. You'll be encouraged to take opportunities to enhance your degree, such as joining our active Politics Society, getting involved with Model EU and Model UN, and taking part in student/staff co-organised events.
If you choose to study at our Penryn Campus in Cornwall, you'll benefit from being part of one of the UK's top Politics departments, but you won’t be lost in a crowd. Living close by the vibrant seaside town of Falmouth, you will join a diverse cohort of around 80 students and 13 faculty members who come from all walks of life and are passionate about Politics. We will get to know you and offer personalised support as you transition from school to university.
I love how student are on first name terms with lecturers and seminar leaders. With class and lecture sizes being relatively small compared to other universities, I gain a lot more information and support than I would have originally expected.
Aaron
Studying Politics and International Relations (Cornwall)