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Department of Politics and International Relations

At the heart of current political thinking, research and debate.

Study with us

Outstanding teaching led by international experts. Study across the full breadth of politics and international relations.

With a broad range of option modules, our courses allow you to study what you're most passionate about.

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Research

We're shaping global debates and breaking new ground to address the world's most pressing challenges.

At the forefront of the discipline, our research sparks action and influences policymaking.

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To study politics and international relations is to ask fundamental questions about the nature of the world - about war and peace, wealth and power, order and justice. At York, you'll have the opportunity to learn about these and other themes in a variety of different contexts, guided by our world-class researchers and teachers.

Professor Tony Heron, Head of Department of Politics and International Relations

11th in the UK
for Politics, according to The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
for the quality of our research outputs and our research environment in the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021).
13th in the UK
for Politics, according to the Complete University Guide 2026.

News

26 May 2026

The Social Change Catalyst Blog for May 2026 comes from Nina Caspersen

26 May 2026

The Social Change Catalyst Blog for May 2026 comes from Nina Caspersen

26 May 2026

YUSU Excellence Awards for Politics staff

22 May 2026

In an era of shrinking civic space and unprecedented geopolitical volatility, how do peacebuilding practitioners and rights advocates navigate the various dilemmas and challenges for leading effectively?

Events

Monday 1 June 2026 1.30pm

Join YCCS for a round table event which will discuss ARTivism against gender-based violence in Mexico

Monday 1 June 2026 1.30pm

Join YCCS for a round table event which will discuss ARTivism against gender-based violence in Mexico

Monday 1 June 2026 1.30pm

Join YCCS for a round table event which will discuss ARTivism against gender-based violence in Mexico

Tuesday 2 June 2026 10.30am

This workshop coincides with the 15th anniversary of the death of Ugandan gay activist David Kato, who was a fellow at the Centre for Applied Human Rights, and in whose honour David Kato college at York is named.

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