Political Science Joint Honours

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Joint Honours) at the University of Birmingham offers students a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and institutions across both national and international contexts. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the political landscape. Students will explore a diverse range of topics including comparative politics, international relations, public policy, and political philosophy, allowing them to gain insight into how power, governance, and societal change operate in different contexts. The programme emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in government, international organizations, the media, or further academic research. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent study, students will engage with contemporary political issues, learn to evaluate diverse perspectives, and develop their own informed opinions. The programme also encourages students to undertake internships and participate in conference debates, which enhance real-world understanding and professional skills. Additionally, the university provides an active international environment, offering opportunities for study abroad and language learning, thereby broadening students' global outlook. Graduates from this programme will be equipped with a deep knowledge of political processes and the ability to analyze complex issues critically. With a flexible curriculum, students can tailor their studies to reflect their interests, whether in regional politics, global governance, or political theory. The University of Birmingham’s strong academic community and excellent research facilities support students in their academic and career aspirations, making this programme an ideal choice for those passionate about understanding and influencing the political world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3844 Year (EEA)
• EUR 12916 Year (Non-EEA)

UK / EU students £3,375 International students £11,340

• English

Course Content

Politics may be studied with another subject as part of a Joint Honours programme. In each year of the degree you take two or three political science courses together with courses in your second subject. In the first year you take a foundation course and a module in Classical Political Thought. In the second year you take any two or three courses selected from the many options available to Single Honours students. In the final year you select two or three courses from those available to third-year Single Honours students.

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Requirements for:

• Political Science and Philosophy BA
• Political Science and Social Policy BA
• Political Science and Sociology BA

Number of A levels required: 3
Typical offer: AAB - ABB
General Studies: not accepted
International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 - 36 points
Standard English language requirements apply.

Other qualifications are considered: Students with other qualifications are advised to speak to Undergraduate admissions.

Requirements for:

• African Studies and Political Science BA
• Anthropology and Political Science BA
• Economics and Political Science BSc
• History and Political Science BA
• Russian Studies and Political Science BA

These degrees are not convened by POLSIS. Please see the website of the relevant department for details of entry requirements to these programmes.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Birmingham.

The University of Birmingham offers a Joint Honours degree programme in Political Science, designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and issues on both a national and international level. This multidisciplinary approach allows students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of politics, governance, and policy-making processes. The programme typically combines core modules in political science with specialized courses that may include international relations, comparative politics, public policy, political theory, and contemporary political issues. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies according to their interests, choosing from optional modules that explore various aspects of politics and related disciplines.

The programme aims to prepare graduates for a wide range of careers in government, public administration, international organizations, NGOs, journalism, and academia. It emphasizes research skills, communication, and the ability to analyze complex political phenomena through qualitative and quantitative methods. The university’s strong links with political institutions and the vibrant academic community provide students with opportunities for relevant internships, conferences, and networking events. The programme encourages critical engagement with current political debates and fosters an understanding of the ethical and social dimensions of political decision-making. Typically, students will undertake assessments through essays, presentations, examinations, and a dissertation in their final year. The degree also develops transferable skills including teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which are highly valued across multiple sectors.

In addition to academic coursework, students benefit from the university’s diverse extracurricular activities, such as political societies, debate clubs, and guest lectures by prominent figures in politics and international relations. The university’s campus facilities support independent research and collaborative learning, including access to extensive online resources, dedicated study spaces, and academic support services. The programme is usually structured over three years for full-time study, with options for sandwich years involving placements or study abroad for international exposure. The University of Birmingham’s strong reputation in social sciences ensures that graduates of the Political Science Joint Honours programme are well-equipped to pursue postgraduate study or enter the workplace with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.