Course summary

• Learn the latest thinking in analysing and explaining political trends or issues.
• Develop a critical understanding of political institutions, ideologies and theories.
• Gain valuable work experience with well-known organisations.
• Visit Brussels for a chance to meet policy makers and politicians.

Develop the skills to formulate and defend complex ideas – and the ability to think clearly and objectively. Be given the platform to debate convincingly. By focusing on the application of political ideas in the real world, this degree supports you in a variety of career paths.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

At each level of study teaching is structured to provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Classwork is supplemented by guest speakers drawn from the public, academic, non-governmental and campaign sectors which provide not only different perspectives on real world issues but also an insight into the knowledge and skills required to work in these sectors.

You learn through

• lectures
• seminars
• away days
• workshops
• e-learning
• placement opportunities
• guest lecturers
• extracurricular activities such as publishing and editing Politics Review Magazine
• joining the Model UN Simulation Society, the Politics Society, and the Debating Society

Throughout the course you’ll be able to improve your employability by studying a language. You can study a language of your choice for credit – whether you’re a beginner or at a more advanced level. Languages available include French, Spanish, German, Italian, Catalan, Portuguese, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese.

 Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in

• the UK diplomatic service
• fast-track civil service
• political think tanks
• print media
• sports promotion
• lobby groups
• NGOs
• the third sector
• European institutions
• local government research
• a wide range of graduate schemes across many different professions

Modules

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change. When selecting electives, your choices will be subject to the core requirements of the course. As a result, selections may be limited to a choice between one of two or more specified electives in some instances.

You will be able to complete a placement year as part of this course. See the modules table below for further information.