Politics Degree Course

 At university level, Politics is an intellectually stimulating subject that engages with some of the most pressing issues of our time, from climate change and inequality to war, democracy, and civil rights. Whether you're interested in domestic affairs, international relations or political theory, studying Politics offers the tools to understand how governments work, how decisions are made, and how societies change.

This guide covers what you’ll study in a Politics degree in the UK, how it compares internationally, which A levels are useful, and what careers it can lead to.

Studying Politics in the UK

In the UK, Politics is usually offered as a BA (Bachelor of Arts) degree and typically lasts three years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and four years in Scotland. It may be offered as a standalone subject or in combination with International Relations, Economics, Philosophy, History, Sociology, or Law.

Politics degrees in the UK are designed to give students both theoretical and practical insights into political systems, ideologies, institutions, and behaviour. Most courses offer a mix of British politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory.

What You Study in a Politics Degree

Politics is a broad field. Students usually begin with foundational modules and then choose specialisms in later years. While course structures vary, most Politics degrees include the following core areas:

1. Political Theory
This explores key thinkers and concepts that have shaped political thought - such as liberty, justice, equality, authority, and democracy. You’ll study philosophers from Plato to Marx to contemporary theorists, and learn how political ideas have influenced real-world systems and struggles.

2. Comparative Politics
This area looks at how different countries govern, and why political systems vary. You might compare democracies and authoritarian regimes, study elections and political parties across regions, or explore how constitutions shape power.

3. International Relations
International Relations (IR) focuses on how states interact, the causes of war and peace, diplomacy, global governance, and the role of organisations like the United Nations or NATO. Topics include security, foreign policy, development, and global justice.

4. British Politics and Government
Most UK-based Politics degrees include study of the British political system - covering Parliament, the Prime Minister, devolution, political parties, elections, and public policy.

5. Research Methods and Political Analysis
You’ll learn how to conduct political research, interpret data, and evaluate arguments. This may include training in qualitative and quantitative research, statistics, interviews, case studies and policy analysis.

Optional Modules
As you progress, you’ll likely be able to choose from options such as:

• Environmental politics

• Human rights and international law

• Feminist and queer political theory

• Migration and borders

• Political communication and media

• Terrorism and security studies

• European Union politics

• Race, identity and colonialism

• Global capitalism and development

Dissertation or Independent Project
Most Politics degrees conclude with an independent research project or dissertation on a topic of your choice, allowing you to apply your knowledge in depth.

Teaching and Assessment
Politics is taught through lectures, seminars and tutorials, with a strong emphasis on reading, debate, and critical analysis. Assessment methods include essays, exams, policy briefings, presentations and independent research.

Leading UK universities for Politics include Oxford, Cambridge, LSE (London School of Economics), UCL, Warwick, King’s College London, Edinburgh, and Manchester, but many other institutions offer excellent Politics programmes with different strengths.

Useful A Levels for Studying Politics

There is no single A level requirement for Politics, but the following subjects are commonly recommended or considered helpful:

• Politics – gives you an introduction to political systems and ideologies

• History – helps develop understanding of political development and essay skills

• Economics – supports understanding of public policy and political economy

• Sociology – useful for understanding power, institutions and social change

• Philosophy – good preparation for political theory and argumentation

• English Literature or Language – supports reading, analysis and writing

Universities value strong essay-based A levels and an interest in current affairs, debate and critical thinking.

Career Prospects

Politics graduates are well equipped for careers that require analytical skills, clear communication and an understanding of political systems and public affairs. Career options include:

• Civil Service – policy, diplomacy, intelligence or administration roles

• Government and Politics – working for MPs, political parties, or local councils

• International Organisations – roles in NGOs, the UN, or international development

• Journalism and Media – political reporting, commentary, or analysis

• Public Affairs and Lobbying – influencing policy and representing organisations

• Law – many Politics graduates go on to law conversion courses

• Academia and Research – teaching, think tanks, or policy institutes

• Business and Consultancy – particularly in strategy, public relations or corporate affairs

• Charity and Non-Profit Sector – working in advocacy, campaign strategy or global aid

• Education – teaching or education policy roles

Some graduates go on to study postgraduate degrees in Politics, International Relations, Public Policy or related subjects.

Studying Politics in the USA

In the United States, Politics is commonly studied under the name "Political Science" as part of a four-year liberal arts degree. Students take courses in American government, comparative politics, political theory and international relations. US programmes often include internships with congressional offices, campaigns or advocacy groups.

Studying Politics in Canada

Canadian universities offer Political Science as a four-year BA, with specialisms in Canadian politics, public administration, and global affairs. Students often have the chance to participate in co-op programmes or gain experience in public policy and research roles.

Studying Politics in the EU

Across Europe, Politics or Political Science is offered as a three-year undergraduate degree, often taught in English in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden and Belgium. EU programmes frequently include modules on European governance, political philosophy and comparative institutions, and many offer Erasmus exchanges or placements.

Studying Politics in Australia and New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, Politics is typically part of a three-year Bachelor of Arts degree. Programmes often focus on global politics, Asia-Pacific relations, Indigenous governance, environmental policy and human rights. Opportunities for practical experience and interdisciplinary study are common.

Final Thoughts

Studying Politics at university equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand how the world works,  and how it might be changed. Whether you want to shape public policy, influence international relations, hold governments to account or simply understand the news with more depth, Politics provides an intellectually rich and practically useful foundation.