7 reasons to study Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds
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In a time of political uncertainty and social upheaval, the study of Politics and International Studies has perhaps never been more important. Choosing to study at the University of Leeds means you’ll get to learn about the issues which shape our world at one of the UK’s largest schools of Politics and International Studies.

In the School of Politics and International Studies, you benefit from a combination of academic research and teaching strengths that are recognised nationally and internationally. Leeds is part of the prestigious Russell Group (comprising the 24 research-led universities in the UK) which reflects the quality and variety of research at the University. This research ignites your studies with policy-changing findings and thought-provoking arguments to challenge established thinking on current issues.

As a Leeds University student, you won’t just be receiving a world-class education, you’ll also be part of a dynamic, friendly, and successful international community. Leeds believes that global perspectives are vital to enhance debates and develop valuable cross-cultural understanding. Intrigued to know more? Here are 7 reasons to study Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds…

1. Top 5 for employability…

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In a new study conducted by High Fliers Research, graduates from the University of Leeds are the fifth most targeted by leading employers in the UK. In an increasingly competitive job market, it’s important to ensure you are equipped with a strong skill set, knowledge and experience that will give you an advantage over others.

Jane Campbell, Head of Student Careers at Leeds says, “Employers are engaged in every aspect of our work with students, from their role in advising on curricula to offering placements and jobs. The proportion of our graduates achieving high quality job outcomes is among the best in the UK, at more than 81 per cent.”

2. ‘University of the Year’…

Finding a university that offers everything from a great academic curriculum to top-notch facilities and a fantastic student experience can be difficult, but the University of Leeds comes pretty close. The University, which had exceptional student satisfaction levels in the 2016 National Student Survey (NSS), reached an all-time high in the overall Sunday Times rankings, at 13th place overall for outstanding performances in student experience, high entry standards, services, facilities, and graduate prospects.

With such great results, the institution was named ‘University of the Year 2017’ by The Times and The Sunday Times’ Good University Guide. “Outstanding student satisfaction levels do not happen by accident and reflect the emphasis placed here on getting the student learning experience spot on,” says Alastair McCall, the publication’s Editor.

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3. Happy students…

With 90% of final year students feeling satisfied, the University clearly prioritises the needs of its students, ensuring each student has the right support, guidance and encouragement in place to allow them to succeed.

“Every professor and tutor is very devoted and passionate about their subject. They are always eager to help and their office doors are always open for us should we need academic support.

Also, the student support service is very well organized. They answered every question that I had regarding financial support, studying abroad and accommodation, which really gave me confidence, in the first two months when I arrived here.Georgina Epure, BA International Relations.

4. Get involved…

With over 300 clubs and societies offered at the Leeds University Union, students here are spoilt for choice. There is everything from football to chess, wine tasting to skydiving, and dance to media. There’s even the Model United Nations which brings together students interested in world issues, debating and potentially a career in the UN. All of these are a great way to meet like-minded people outside of the classroom and develop new skills. Plus the Union organises trips around the UK for international students to make the most of their time in the country.

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You can also enhance your employability through work experience and volunteer work opportunities. The School of Politics and International Studies has a dedicated careers consultant who can help you look for work experience, find job vacancies, edit applications, and experience mock interviews. The School also runs external speaker events that include political correspondents, MPs and UN workers to enhance your learning experience and build your network in the process.

5. Tailor your experience…

One of the advantages of a degree from the School of Politics and International Studies is the flexibility offered to students at the School. Select degree modules that cross the boundaries of multiple disciplines and develop a degree structure that meets your specific interests and career aspirations. The School offers undergraduate degrees with hundreds of discovery modules, plus, several postgraduate (taught and research) degrees.

At undergraduate level Leeds also provides one of the most varied selections of joint honours programmes which allow you to specialise in two subject areas. The joint honours combination partner schools are: Leeds University Business School, the School of Modern Languages and Cultures, and the School of Sociology and Social Policy.

6. A campus by the city…

Just a 10 minute walk from the city, the University of Leeds’ single-site campus is one of the largest in the UK, with excellent facilities for studying, fitness, music and theatre.

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For those who love the great outdoors, Leeds has numerous beautiful green spaces to relax in between studies.  It is also a bustling multicultural city with lots to explore; it is an excellent shopping destination and hub for international cuisine, and the host of theatres, cinemas and events means you will never be bored.

7. World-leading research…

The real-world impact of the University’s academic research and policy-making perspectives gives students insights into major political, economic, social and cultural issues regarding various global societies. Some of the research work that is currently in focus includes ‘Israel’s State Legitimacy’, ‘China’s International Relations’ and ‘Political Reform in Thailand’. Academics at the School of Politics and International Studies are in demand across the globe for their expertise, frequently asked by the media to comment on current issues.

The University also has the Leeds Social Sciences Institute that works to support and enhance the Social Sciences at Leeds, focusing on international research collaborations and training opportunities for postgraduate researchers.

Located in a great city, the University of Leeds provides you with more than an elite education. From excellent guest speakers within the industry to being a part of the top five graduate groups leading employers target, you know you’re in good hands at the School of Politics and International Studies at Leeds.

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