This degree explores connections between political practice and theory and the state and society, using examples drawn from the most topical issues of global and local concern. In your first year, our Politics and Governance in the Contemporary World course will introduce you to the core themes, concepts and events of Politics and International Relations. You will also be able to follow your own interests, choosing courses from two other departments.You'll then move on to subjects such as International Relations and Security; Politics of Development, and The United Kingdom: State, Politics and Policy in your second year.In your final year, you can develop your ideas on themes including Britain in the World; United States Foreign Policy since 1945, and Contemporary Issues in the Middle East.You will have the opportunity to spend Year 3 on placement with a public, private or voluntary organisation in the UK or overseas. This experience will boost your employment prospects and will help you to decide on your career direction and the kind of organisation in which you want to work once you graduate. You will be doing a real, responsible job – with all the satisfaction that brings. Our Placements Team will support you in finding and applying for a suitable placement that will support your professional development. Applying for a placement is a competitive process and the preparatory modules you will complete in years one and two are designed to give you the best chance of success in your placement applications. You will also be provided with dedicated workshops, 1:1 appointments with careers professionals as well as opportunities to speak with employers here on campus.During the placement year you will remain a Lancaster University student which means that you will still be eligible for a student loan, have access to facilities such as the library and receive discounts on transport and council tax. Your tuition fee will be reduced to 20% during the placement year. The placement will enhance your understanding of the connections between theory and practice and this will benefit your final year of study. This is an exciting opportunity to build up experience and transferable skills, as well as to make contacts with potential employers which will place you a step ahead in the graduate recruitment market.