International Relations, Politics and History

The School of Social Sciences and Humanities at Loughborough is home to International Relations, Politics and History. It is a world-leading centre for research and study into many areas of contemporary politics, international relations and history. Our aim is to stimulate innovative research that has the potential to transform academic and public debates.

We conduct research in contemporary politics and international relations, political theory, early modern and modern history. Most of our research falls between the humanities and the political and social sciences but we also produce a substantial body of interdisciplinary work, notably in the history of ideas, radical movements and activism, in gender politics, international politics and history, security studies, government and governance at both national and international levels, art and politics, religion and politics, media studies and history, and digital humanities.

Our focus on research is reflected in the results of the latest Research Excellence Framework (2014), where we were ranked in the UK top 10 for research intensity.

Our division is a supportive environment for doctoral research, and we foster strong research links between academics and students. You will participate in seminar planning and you will receive tailored advice on professional development, such as finding fellowships and publishing.

Our graduates have secured prestigious positions in academic institutions, including the Wiesenthal Institute in Vienna, Exeter University, Queen’s University in Belfast and University College Dublin. Others have pursued careers in academic publishing, with international and UK-based campaign groups and civil society organisations.