Muslim World Report

Should You Choose Politics or Add International Relations?

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Apr 25, 2025 10:26 AM | 8 min read | 1636 words

TL;DR: Choosing between a single degree in Politics and a dual degree in Politics and International Relations is a significant decision for students. Each path has its advantages and disadvantages, impacting future career prospects. This post explores the complexities of both choices, along with what may happen if a student decides to postpone their decision.

The Situation

In today’s educational landscape, the choice of degree can profoundly shape one’s career trajectory, particularly in dynamic fields like politics and international relations (IR). A second-year university student in the UK currently faces a pivotal decision: whether to switch from a single honors degree in Politics to a dual degree that includes both Politics and International Relations. This seemingly simple choice carries significant implications for the student’s academic and professional future, influenced by the complexities of the current global political climate.

The political climate is increasingly complex due to:

  • The rise of global populism
  • Shifting power dynamics
  • Urgent issues such as climate change, migration, and international human rights

These factors necessitate a nuanced understanding of both domestic and global forces (Hitt & Tyler, 1991). A degree in Politics provides an in-depth examination of governmental mechanics, policymaking, and political theory. In contrast, a dual degree that encompasses International Relations broadens this scope to include global issues and the intricate relationships between states and non-state actors. This dual approach reflects the reality that today’s political challenges are seldom confined within national borders, emphasizing the necessity for academic training that encompasses a broader perspective.

However, the opportunity to switch comes with notable trade-offs:

  • A dual degree would preclude the student from completing a dissertation—a critical component of a single honors degree that cultivates essential research skills and in-depth knowledge in a specific area.
  • Financial implications may arise as the pathways associated with each degree could lead to divergent job prospects. For instance, the decision on whether to pursue a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) may be influenced by the chosen degree.

As students navigate these academic waters, they must grapple with systemic issues within UK higher education, including:

  • Rigid degree structures that limit interdisciplinary exploration
  • An overwhelming emphasis on employability
  • Pervasive financial considerations influencing educational choices

These factors complicate the decision-making process, reflecting broader societal challenges where students often find themselves confined to binary choices that may not align with their career aspirations or intellectual interests (Brown, Hesketh, & Williams, 2003).

What if the Student Chooses Politics?

If the student opts to remain in the Politics program, they would gain:

  • A comprehensive understanding of local political systems
  • Theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches to engage critically with the UK’s domestic political landscape

The opportunity to conduct a dissertation would allow them to perform original research, enhancing their academic profile and attractiveness to future employers (Durso & Arruda, 2022). However, this choice may limit their exposure to global issues, potentially placing them at a disadvantage in an increasingly interconnected world. Employers—especially in international organizations, NGOs, and policy think tanks—often seek candidates with a robust grasp of both domestic and foreign affairs (Rae, 2007).

In practical terms, remaining in a single honors program positions the student to develop a deep, specialized skill set that can be particularly appealing for focused roles within the political sector. The dissertation could enable them to explore a unique area of interest, making them an expert in a niche field. For example, focusing on local governance systems or domestic policy analysis could yield insights especially valuable for local governmental organizations or think tanks.

What if the Student Switches to Politics and International Relations?

By switching to a dual degree, the student would gain:

  • A holistic understanding of the political landscape
  • Integration of analyses of both domestic politics and international relations

This broader perspective could enhance their adaptability in a rapidly changing job market that increasingly values cross-disciplinary knowledge (Kaplan & Violante, 2014). The inclusion of international relations would equip the student with skills to address global issues, thereby fostering employability in diverse fields such as diplomacy, international development, and global governance.

Nonetheless, forgoing the dissertation poses significant risks:

  • Without a substantial piece of original research, the student may lack a strong portfolio to showcase to potential employers or graduate programs.
  • Research-intensive degrees often highlight candidates’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities—qualities that are highly sought after in both legal and political careers (Denny & Spirling, 2018).

From a potential employer’s perspective, having a dual degree may signal a broader competency in understanding complex issues at both domestic and international levels. However, not having a dissertation might make it challenging for the student to demonstrate their ability to engage in independent research.

What if the Student Decides to Postpone the Decision?

If the student opts to postpone their decision, they might engage in:

  • Internships
  • Volunteer work
  • Extracurricular activities related to both fields

This practical experience could provide valuable insights into potential career paths and clarify their interests and strengths. Hands-on experience can illuminate the applicability of theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, helping to inform their eventual choice (Koen, 2013).

However, delaying the decision may lead to missed opportunities, particularly in securing limited spots for competitive programs such as the GDL. As the job market grows increasingly competitive, students who hesitate may risk falling behind peers who have made strategic choices about their education (Charleston, 2012).

In practical terms, postponing the decision might allow the student to gain clearer insights into their career aspirations. Internships in both arenas could provide a clearer picture of their interests while allowing them to build valuable networks and develop practical skills.

Strategic Maneuvers

For the Student

The student should weigh their long-term career goals against immediate academic opportunities. Engaging with academic advisors and professionals in both fields can shed light on the implications of each degree choice. Moreover, pursuing internships or part-time roles in relevant political or international contexts can yield insights into which path aligns more closely with their ambitions (Rynes, Bretz, & Gerhart, 1991).

While reconciling academic choices with practical experience, students could explore short courses or seminars that bridge both disciplines during their decision-making process. Such a strategy would allow them to accumulate knowledge relevant to both Politics and IR without fully committing to a dual degree.

Furthermore, networking is crucial in both fields. Connecting with alumni or professionals who have pursued similar paths could provide insights into the practical implications of each degree choice. The student should seek mentorship opportunities and attend events related to both fields, as these experiences can often lead to job offers or valuable recommendations in the future.

For Universities

UK universities must reflect on the rigidity of their degree structures, which often restrict students’ capacity to explore interdisciplinary studies. Institutions should consider:

  • Offering more flexible degree paths that encompass a broader range of topics
  • Retaining critical academic components like dissertations

By fostering an educational environment that embraces both depth and breadth, universities can better prepare students for the complexities of the political landscape they will inevitably face.

Moreover, universities could benefit from listening to student feedback in curriculum development, ensuring that academic offerings remain relevant to evolving global contexts. Regularly reviewing course structures and degree offerings based on market demand could facilitate a more responsive education system.

For Future Employers

Employers should recognize the value of diverse educational backgrounds when evaluating candidates for roles in politics and law. They should prioritize skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and effective communication over specific degree titles (Granovetter, 1973).

Additionally, organizations could implement training programs that support new hires in bridging any gaps between their academic experiences and the practical demands of the job. This would foster an environment that values diverse educational backgrounds while promoting continuous learning.

Future employers should also consider engaging with universities to offer workshops, guest lectures, or mentorship opportunities. Collaborating with academic institutions can bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that graduates possess the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their careers.

References

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