University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This degree integrates three complementary disciplines. You will study political theory, comparative politics and public policy alongside international relations topics such as global governance, security, conflict and diplomacy. At the same time you will gain grounded HRM knowledge in areas including organisational behaviour, employment relations, resourcing and talent management, learning and development, and employment law.

Typical first-year modules introduce the methods and core concepts of politics, IR and HRM — for example, political ideas and ideologies, introduction to international relations, and fundamentals of people management. In subsequent years you choose more specialised options such as conflict and security studies, European and regional politics, human resource strategy, organisational psychology and industrial relations. The programme emphasises applied skills: research methods, policy analysis, quantitative and qualitative techniques, and HR practice such as recruitment and training design.

Students can usually choose a pathway that includes a work placement or a study abroad year to gain practical experience. Independent research through a final-year dissertation or applied project allows you to explore cross-disciplinary topics such as labour market regulation in global supply chains, diplomatic negotiation and workforce planning.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on standard UK or international school qualifications. Applicants are normally expected to present a combination of A‑levels, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, International Baccalaureate or an approved international equivalent. There are no mandatory A‑level subjects, although qualifications in social sciences, humanities or business-related subjects are useful preparation.

The University welcomes mature applicants and those with Access or relevant vocational qualifications; applicants will be considered on the strength of prior learning and experience. All applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's English language requirement through an approved test or qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical and interpersonal skills valued across a wide range of employers. Common career paths include human resources (resourcing, learning and development, employee relations), public policy and administration, diplomacy and international organisations, NGOs and advocacy groups, and political research or media roles. The combination of policy and people-management training is also a strong basis for careers in consultancy, graduate management schemes and recruiting.

Many students progress to professional HR accreditation (for example through routes recognised by professional bodies), or continue to postgraduate study in areas such as human resource management, public policy, international relations or law. The University’s employer links and careers services support applications to competitive graduate schemes and sector-specific roles.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde is a civic-oriented university with strong connections to Scottish and UK public institutions and a distinctive applied focus. The programme benefits from close ties between academic departments and Strathclyde Business School, bringing together theoretical insight and vocationally relevant HR practice. Research centres at the University undertake policy-focused work in governance, employment and international affairs, offering opportunities to engage with live research and practitioner networks.

Based in Glasgow, the University offers easy access to public sector bodies, multinational companies and NGOs for placements and guest lectures. Students benefit from careers support, employer events and active student societies in politics, international relations and business. The curriculum emphasises transferable skills—research, negotiation, communication and problem-solving—so graduates are prepared to adapt across sectors and progress to professional qualifications or advanced study.