Study Politics, why & how to study
The world of politics is constantly changing. So, if you literally want to learn something new every day, a Politics degree could be the course for you.
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CONTENTS
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What鈥檚 Politics?
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What Politics degrees can you study?
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What do you need to get onto a Politics degree?
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What topics does a Politics degree cover?
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How will you be assessed?
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Why study Politics?
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Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying Politics?
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What do Politics graduates earn?
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What jobs can you get as a Politics graduate?
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What are the postgraduate opportunities?
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Similar subjects to Politics
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Have any questions?
What鈥檚 Politics?
Politics is the process of gaining and exerting governance 鈥� organised control over a state or local community. Studying Politics involves looking at how that power is handled and where the power lies. Recent constitutional reforms have changed the political map in the UK and beyond, making the study of Politics more compelling than ever.
During a degree course, you'll learn how political systems operate and will be encouraged to think about what works and what doesn't. You鈥檒l also examine political theory, considering key questions such as the nature of freedom and the strengths and limitations of democracy.
Take a look at the university league tables for Politics.
What Politics degrees can you study?
While you can study Politics as a single subject, undergraduate options frequently include joint degrees with a related area of study. Some examples include:
Politics and History BA
A Politics and History course brings together complementary but distinct disciplines. You鈥檒l set contemporary political problems in their historical perspective and study the past with the conceptual rigour derived from political science.
Search for Politics and History courses.
Politics and International Relations BSc
A BSc in Politics and International Relations is designed for people who are passionate about politics, and who want to look in-depth behind the headlines to understand the forces shaping today's world.
Find Politics and International Relations courses.
Politics and German Studies BA
This programme gives you the opportunity to acquire high-level language skills and gain a thorough understanding of the country鈥檚 historical, cultural, social and political background in a global context. In Politics, you will explore the themes, concepts and events that have shaped the contemporary world.
Look for Politics and German Studies courses.
Other options
Course options may include an integrated foundation year, professional placement or a year abroad.
What do you need to get onto a Politics degree?
Must have
Entry requirements for a Politics degree typically range from 88鈥�168 UCAS points. This could include the qualifications below:
- A Levels: A*AA鈥揅CD
- BTECs: D*DD鈥揗MP
- Scottish Highers: AAAAA鈥揃BBB (Advanced Highers: AAA)
- International Baccalaureate: 39鈥�26
- Universities will usually ask that you鈥檝e studied: subjects required by joint honours degrees, such as maths A Level (or equivalent) for Economics and Politics degrees
Good to have
- Studied social sciences or humanities subjects
- Experiences that give you insights into the workings of state structures, such as attending council meetings, court visits, visiting your nation鈥檚 parliament
- Volunteer experience with charities, such as those who campaign for social justice, or joining a pressure group
- Staying up to date and analyse news from broadsheet newspapers representing differing viewpoints
- Independent reading into the subject, or areas of research at your chosen uni
What topics does a Politics degree cover?
Typical modules for courses in this subject include:
- Classical political thought
- Explaining public policies
- Global challenges
- Politics and public policy
- International relations
- Comparative politics
How will you be assessed?
Courses may be assessed in a variety of ways, depending on the module:
- Coursework
- Exams
- Essays
- Projects
- Individual and small group presentations
- Dissertation or research project in your final year
Why study Politics?
A degree in Politics will develop your ability to think and analyse critically, along with many other skills.
Career-specific skills:
- Understanding of political theory, contemporary politics and how the political system operates
- Insights into international relations and the global alliances, multinationals, non-governmental organisations and other forces that may influence policy
Transferable skills:
- Articulate verbal reasoning
- Independent, analytical and critical thinking
- Organisation, planning and time management
- Problem-solving
- Research and evaluation
- Teamwork
- Written and verbal communication
I chose my course because the idea of studying two subjects within one course really appealed to me. The Politics and Criminology degree has many interesting modules as well as guest speakers and opportunities to expand your learning further, like work placement, study abroad and Sandwich Year options.
Libby, Edge Hill University
Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying Politics?
Some universities offer students scholarships, bursaries, or grants to encourage diversity. It鈥檚 worth asking if you are eligible, how to apply and what the money covers e.g., materials, tuition fees and/or living costs.
What do Politics graduates earn?
Starting salaries for a Politics graduate range between £19,000鈥�£26,000.
As your career progresses, your average earnings will depend on your field of work. The average income for a public relations officer is £31,500, rising to £80,000 for those promoted to director. Diplomats starting via the Civil Service fast stream are initially paid £31,000. Climb to the top ranks and your pay could be in excess of £100,000.
What jobs can you get as a Politics graduate?
You don't have to aim to be an MP if you graduate in Politics 鈥� although you鈥檒l be well suited to work in the public sector or the media. Career paths you could follow include:
- Diplomat
- HR manager
- Journalist
- Management consultant
- Market researcher
- Parliamentary researcher
- Policy officer
- PR account executive
- Social researcher
- Film production coordinator
- READ MORE
- Careers with a Politics degree
What are the postgraduate opportunities?
Examples of taught master鈥檚 and research degrees at the postgraduate level include:
- Diplomatic Studies PgDip/MSt
- International Relations MPhil/PhD
- Politics and International Studies MPhil
- Social and Policy Studies PhD
Similar subjects to Politics
If you鈥檙e interested in how society operates, you could also consider:
Search undergraduate Politics courses now!
Have any questions?
Ask us! You can email ask@thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk with your questions about studying Politics 鈥� we鈥檒l be happy to hear from you.
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