Course overview
On this course you will take a range of core modules in economics and in the three key areas of politics: international relations, comparative politics and political theory. You will also be able to choose optional modules in both subjects as well as from a wide range offered across the University.
Year one
In year one, you will take modules in political theory and in comparative politics. You will learn to compare political institutions and behaviour in 'Western' liberal democracies and gain a thorough understanding of the history of political ideas. You will also take a range of modules in the School of Economics.
Year two
In year two, you will take the compulsory modules Approaches to Political Studies, Designing Political Research, Microeconomic Theory and Macroeconomic Theory. You will also take optional modules in both politics and economics.
Year three
In year three, you will undertake a politics dissertation under the supervision of a member of staff, and also take optional modules in both politics and economics from the range of modules offered by both schools.
More information
See also the School of Economics.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAA plus A in maths at GCSE
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 (including 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 100 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative qualifications
For details please see alternative qualifications page
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
-
Introduction to Microeconomics
-
Power and the State
-
Understanding Global Politics
-
Foundations for Politics
-
Introduction to Macroeconomics
Typical year-two modules
-
Microeconomic Theory
-
Macroeconomic Theory
Typical year-three modules
-
These modules will typically include Politics and Drugs, The Impact of Globalisation, Afghanistan and Pakistan, and The Far Right in Europe.
Skills and careers
You will graduate with a thorough knowledge of a wide range of political and economic concepts and a good grasp of international political and economic experience. Transferable skills you will have developed include the ability to study independently, communicate effectively and to develop and sustain a reasoned argument.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/2010 graduates of the School of Politics and International Relations was £20,391.89 and for graduates of the School of Economics it was £26,727.88.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.