BSc Econ Political Studies

Politics is about the ability to change lives. It is not simply about how we are governed, but why; it is not just about politicians and governments, but other groups and organisations, such as multi national companies, Trade Unions, civil society groups such as Liberty, all of whom influence how we are governed. Political Studies looks at the ideas which shape our daily lives, ideas of justice, freedom, power, citizenship and the morality of political decision making. It questions how issues such as ethnicity, anti-capitalist movements, gender, and ecology reflect and produce changes in political thought. It then explores how these ideas are translated into practice - how governments take ideas and implement them, who provides the ideas that governments listen to, and how public participation can make a difference.

Degree Structure

Year One

During their first year (known as ‘Part One') students are introduced to the study of Politics and to some of the major areas of the discipline. The Department offers six modules for first year undergraduates.

Single Honours students are encouraged to take all six of these modules, but it is possible to take some modules from other Departments if you prefer.

Years Two and Three (Part 2)

During their either their second or third year students are required to take the core module for their degree scheme.

In their final year students are required to complete a 12,000-word dissertation on a topic related to their chosen degree scheme.

In addition to these core elements, Single Honours students take up to nine optional modules from the Department of International Politics over years two and three. The range of options on offer changes from year to year.