Course overview
This degree concentrates on three key areas within the study of politics: comparative politics, political theory and international relations. A wide selection of optional modules allows you to specialise in a variety of different areas, such as the European Union, British politics, the government and politics of the USA, terrorism and security, and globalisation.
Year one
In year one, you will take modules in political theory, comparative politics and international relations. You will learn to compare political institutions and behaviour in 'Western' liberal democracies and elsewhere and gain a thorough understanding of the history of political ideas.
Year two
In year two, you will take compulsory modules in Approaches to Political Studies and Designing Political Research, along with a range of options from three core areas: political theory, comparative politics and international relations.
Year three
In year three, you may choose to undertake a dissertation under the supervision of a member of staff, and/or to take modules in political theory, comparative and global politics chosen from the very wide selection of modules offered by the School.
Entry requirements
A levels: AAB, none specific but general studies and critical thinking not accepted
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
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Foundations for Politics
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Political Ideas in Revolution
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Power and the State
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Understanding Global Politics
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Introduction to European Politics
Typical year-two modules
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Approaches to Political Studies
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Designing Political Research
Typical year-three modules
From their 120 credits students are required to take one 20 credit module from each of the streams of Comparative Politics, International Relations and Theory.
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 have a thorough knowledge of political ideas and concepts, drawn from both the UK and overseas. You will have the ability to critically analyse a range of information. Transferable skills you will have developed include the ability to study independently, to communicate effectively, and to develop and sustain a reasoned argument.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/2010 full-time graduates of the School of Politics and International Relations was £20,391.89.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.