We are a global, inclusive community of people and ideas, committed to excellence

Politics is not just the study of power – it is the study of ideas that shape the world.

Politics lies at the centre of human life. From international systems to individual rights, it determines how resources are distributed, voices are represented, and societies develop.

The Department of Politics and International Relations is the UK’s leading intellectual centre for political research, and consistently ranked number one in the UK for Politics by University League Tables

Our academics and students shape institutions, inform policy, and expand global understanding of governance, justice, and freedom.

Our alumni are some of the most influential, well-known leaders, thinkers, teachers and researchers worldwide.

Celebrating 25 Years

Vision, Mission and Impact

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Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

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Geopolitical Risk Executive Education Programme

Learn how to turn political insight into actionable impact.

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Areas of Study and Research

Comparative Politics and Government

From constitutions to executives to parliaments to parties to electoral laws - at DPIR we rigorously examine the processes and relationships responsible for stability and change on a global, national, and local level.

Political Theory

Combining analytic, critical and historical political thought, we ask the big philosophical questions such as 'What is the true nature of politics?' and 'What values can—and should—politics realise?'

International Relations