Politics and International Relations future careers

What skills will I gain from a Politics and International Relations degree?

Studying Politics and International Relations at Goldsmiths will provide you with a variety of skills that are highly sought by graduate employers including an understanding of UK governance, a cross-cultural insight into international politics, excellent research skills, the ability to communicate both in writing and orally and the ability to critically analyse and debate ideas. 

What kinds of industries can I work in as a Politics and International Relations graduate?

Politics

You may have a commitment to a particular party or issue. You could work for a political party, MP, campaign or lobby group. A variety of tasks including research, drafting briefings, communications and developing relationships with key stakeholders are available.

To get an idea of the job roles visit: 4mpjobs or AllAboutCareers.

Business and Graduate Management Schemes

Many graduate schemes are open to graduates from any discipline. You find politics graduates working in banking, accountancy or general management schemes. Visit: Target Jobs for advice on finding a graduate job.

Central and local government

The Civil Service Fast-Stream fast-tracks graduates into policy roles. If you fancy local government there is a similar scheme called the National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP). You can also enter roles within central and local government by directly applying to a particular department or council.

Charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)

Your understanding and interest in international relations may lead you to work for an international NGO. Within charities and NGOs there are many roles from PR and communications, to fundraising, administration and research. There are also more hands-on roles managing projects in the field and conflict resolution.

Social research organisations and think tanks

The biggest employer is the Government Social Research Service (GSR) where you could be working on anything from community cohesion to gender equality. There are other organisations in this field of work ranging from university-based research institutes and think tanks to consultancies with one or two self-employed individuals.

Where do Politics and International Relations graduates work?

Politics and International Relations graduates go on to work in a huge variety of industries. Some of our recent graduates now work for companies and institutions including London Borough of Hackney and Council of the Baltic Sea States.