Politics and International Relations (PIR)

Welcome

Welcome to Politics and International Relations - one of the largest and most vibrant subject areas in the University. Our alumni include government ministers, members of parliament, policy analysts, broadcasters, business leaders, teachers and an increasing number of social entrepreneurs.

Our academic staff produce world-class research across several areas, which not only informs our teaching but also the wider academic discipline. In the last UK-wide assessment of research we were rated within the top 10 universities in the UK, and number one in Scotland.

About

We’re one of the largest and most exciting subject areas in the University, home to over 600 top undergraduates and 100 international postgraduate students every year.

Programmes

Our teaching and supervision is research-led, which means that courses at all levels are delivered by scholars active in research in their respective fields.

Research

Our aim is to produce research at the highest international standards, consolidating our position as one of the leading international locations for research on subjects such as multilevel governance, European integration and global politics.

People

Find out more about our team of academic colleagues, PhD students and professional services staff who keep our department running smoothly.

News

See the latest news updates from Politics and International Relations.

Contact

You can find us in the Chrystal Macmillan Building in George Square - right at the heart of the central campus. Busy all year round, George Square is also home to performers and artists during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August.

You might also be interested in the BJPIR journal

British Journal of Politics & International Relations (BJPIR) is a refereed journal published by SAGE under the auspices of the Political Studies Association of the UK.

12/09/2023

Politics and International Relations (PIR)

SPS’ Marc Geddes awarded an ERC Starting Grant for his work exploring the relationship between parliament and knowledge

School of Social and Political Science (SPS) academic Dr Marc Geddes has been awarded a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant for research exploring the relationship between parliament and knowledge.

07/09/2023

Politics and International Relations (PIR)

SPS academic co-authors new report warning that ‘muscular unionism’ approach to devolved nations risks backfiring across the UK

SPS' academic Professor Ailsa Henderson is one of the leads on a new report, which warns that the ‘muscular unionism’ approach to governance adopted by many Westminster politicians in recent years risks backfiring among those who want Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to remain part of the UK.

06/07/2023

Politics and International Relations (PIR)

New university partnership explores how critical maritime infrastructures can be protected

A new university research partnership will explore how critical maritime infrastructures can be protected to tackle environmental issues and ensure the movement from a carbon-based economy to a more sustainable one, otherwise known as the ‘green transition’.

25/05/2023

Politics and International Relations (PIR)

Elizabeth Bomberg wins EUSA Teaching Award

Elizabeth Bomberg, a Professor of Environmental Politics at the School of Social and Political Science (SPS), has won a Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) Teaching Award for Outstanding Commitment to Social Justice and Sustainability.

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School of Social and Political Science