Explore the best UK universities for International Relations in 2026. Study global politics, diplomacy, and world affairs with top-ranked courses.
Best Universities for International Relations: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Oxford | 95 | 82 |
| 2 Silver | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 93 | 79 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Cambridge | 92 | 81 |
| 4 | University of Edinburgh | 89 | 76 |
| 5 | University of Glasgow | 87 | 75 |
| 6 | University of Manchester | 86 | 73 |
| 7 | University of Sussex | 84 | 78 |
| 8 | University of Bristol | 83 | 74 |
| 9 | King’s College London | 82 | 72 |
| 10 | University of Warwick | 81 | 75 |
1. University of Oxford Gold
2. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Silver
3. University of Cambridge Bronze
4. University of Edinburgh
5. University of Glasgow
6. University of Manchester
7. University of Sussex
8. University of Bristol
9. King’s College London
10. University of Warwick
How We Ranked These Universities
Our International Relations rankings blend academic excellence with student lifestyle to highlight the UK’s best unis for global affairs studies.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked International Relations Universities Explained
London School of Economics (LSE)
World-renowned for political science and international affairs, with excellent career prospects.University of Warwick
Strong academic reputation, research output, and student satisfaction.University of Edinburgh
Known for comprehensive global studies and vibrant campus life.University of Manchester
Offers diverse modules with great social opportunities and student support.University of Sussex
Strong focus on global development and sustainability in IR.King’s College London
Prestigious university with excellent connections in government and NGOs.University of Leeds
Balanced academic excellence with an active student community.University of Bristol
Known for research and high graduate employability.University of Glasgow
Affordable city, good teaching quality, and supportive student services.University of Nottingham
High entry standards and strong international focus.Career Prospects After an International Relations Degree
Graduates often pursue careers in diplomacy, international organisations, policy analysis, and global business. Related subjects include Politics and Economics.
International Relations Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requirements range from AAA to AAB at A-level, often including humanities or social science subjects.
Cheapest Cities to Study International Relations in the UK
Cities like Glasgow, Leeds, and Nottingham offer good value with strong course offerings.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh are known for vibrant student scenes and cultural events.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top universities such as Warwick, Sussex, and Glasgow provide excellent mental health and academic support.
Not Sure About International Relations? Consider These Alternatives
Try Politics, Law, or Economics.
Summary: Which International Relations Uni is Right for You?
Think about your preferred course focus, city lifestyle, career goals, and costs. Save this guide to compare your options easily.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for International Relations
Top UK universities for International Relations include the University of St Andrews, LSE, and King’s College London, known for excellent teaching and strong student satisfaction.
The London School of Economics often ranks highest for International Relations due to its strong academic reputation and global focus.
An International Relations degree opens doors to careers in diplomacy, international organisations, and policy-making, with growing demand for global expertise in the UK and beyond.
Typical A-levels include Politics, History, Economics, or Languages. Check specific university requirements as they can vary.
Graduates work in diplomacy, international NGOs, government, policy analysis, and journalism, among other global roles.
Yes, demand is growing for graduates with global knowledge and strong communication skills, especially in government and international organisations.
Starting salaries typically range from £22,000 to £30,000, with growth potential in diplomacy and policy careers.
Some courses with heavy theory or interdisciplinary focus can be challenging. Research course content and speak with students for insight.
Many work in foreign service, international development, NGOs, think tanks, and media.
Yes, it is highly valued for its focus on global issues, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
