Political Science

The BA Political Science program at the University of Birmingham offers students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts, theories, and practices that shape politics and governance both in the UK and globally. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including political ideologies, international relations, public policy, political economy, and comparative politics. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of political processes and institutions, preparing graduates for careers in government, public administration, international organizations, NGOs, journalism, and academia.

students will have the opportunity to engage with current political issues through rigorous analysis, debates, and research projects, fostering a nuanced perspective of how political decisions impact societies. The curriculum combines core modules with electives allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether in global politics, regional studies, or specific policy areas. Moreover, the program benefits from the university’s strong links with political institutions and think tanks, providing students with practical insights and opportunities to gain real-world experience through internships, seminars, and guest lectures.

The University of Birmingham’s renowned academic staff includes experienced researchers and practitioners who bring extensive expertise into the classroom, fostering an engaging and enriching learning environment. The program emphasizes the development of essential skills such as critical analysis, effective communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in various professional contexts. With a dynamic campus life and access to diverse student societies and events related to politics and international affairs, students will also experience a vibrant academic community. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to understand the complexities of modern politics, act as informed citizens, and pursue successful careers across multiple sectors.

Detailed Course Facts

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

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

• English

Course Content

In the first year you are provided with the basic knowledge and skills to study politics. You also have the opportunity to take other introductory social science courses.In the second year you now have the opportunity to develop specialised knowledge in areas that you find of greatest interest, such as political theory and analysis, European integration, British politics, American politics, comparative European politics, and political economy. In the third year In addition to choosing modules from a wide range of options, students undertake an independent research project on a topic of their own choosing.

Modules in the first year

You are provided with the basic knowledge and skills to study politics. You also have the opportunity to take other introductory social science courses.

Compulsory core modules

• 20 credits - Classical Political Thought
• 20 credits - Foundations of Politics
• 20 credits - Introduction to International Relations
• 20 credits - Introduction to Methods (I)
• 20 credits - Introduction to Political Economy

Optional modules

Choose one of the following 20 credit lists of modules

• 10 credits - Twentieth Century Russian Politics A
• 10 credits - Twentieth Century Russian Politics B

Or

• 20 credits - Introduction to the European Union: History, Politics and Institutions

Or

• 20 credits - Social Worlds and the Sociological Imagination

Or

• 10 credits - Introduction to Media, Culture and Society A
• 10 credits - Introduction to Media, Culture and Society B

Modules must total 120 credits

Modules in the second year

You now have the opportunity to develop specialised knowledge in areas that you find of greatest interest, such as political theory and analysis, European integration, British politics, American politics, comparative European politics, and political economy.

Compulsory core modules

• 20 credits - British Politics
• 20 credits - Foundations of Modern Political and Social Theory
• 20 credits - Methods (II)
• 20 credits - Political Analysis

Optional modules

Choose 40 credits from the following, or choose 20 credits from the following and 20 credits of Modules outside the main discipline:

• 20 credits - Comparative European Government
• 20 credits - International Political Economy
• 20 credits - Institutions, Politics and Policies of the EU
• 20 credits - Modern Political Ideologies
• 20 credits - International Politics of East Asia
• 20 credits - The American Presidency
• 20 credits - International Security
• 20 credits - Political Economy of EU Enlargement
• 20 credits - Politics and Policy
• 20 credits - Public Choice theory
• 20 credits - International Politics and Security in Russian and Eurasia
• 10 credits - The Cultural Politics of Russian and Eastern Europe A10 credits - The Cultural Politics of Russian and Eastern Europe B
• 10 credits - Contemporary Russian and East European Politics A10 credits - Contemporary Russian and East European Politics B
• 10 credits - The Defence and Security Policies of the Soviet Union and the Successor States A10 credits - The Defence and Security Policies of the Soviet Union and the Successor States B

Modules must total 120 credits

Modules in the third year

In addition to choosing modules from a wide range of options, students undertake an independent research project on a topic of their own choosing.

Compulsory core modules

• 40 credits - Dissertation

Optional modules

Choose 80 credits from the following

Or choose 60 credits from the following and 20 credits of Modules outside the main discipline . Any module not listed below but is available in the Department or as an 'Modules outside the main discipline' will need approval from POLSIS.

• 20 credits - Twentieth Century Political Though
• 20 credits - Power in Britain
• 20 credits - Contemporary US Foreign & Security Policy
• 20 credits - International Ethics
• 20 credits - Contemporary IPE
• 20 credits - Topics in British Politics
• 20 credits - Modern European Political Thought
• 20 credits - Controversies in Contemporary Democracies: Comparative Perspectives
• 20 credits - European Security
• 20 credits - Democracy and Democratization in Contemporary Europe
• 20 credits - International Organisations
• 20 credits - War Torn States and Post-Conflict Reconstruction in the South
• 20 credits - Critical Approaches to Security
• 20 credits - Advanced Modern Asia
• 20 credits - Politics and the Media
• 20 credits - Immigration and Citizenship in Western Europe
• 20 credits - Devolution, Territorial Politics and Multilevel Governance
• 20 credits - Europe in a Globalised World
• 20 credits - Politics and Sport
• 20 credits - Left Parties and Protest Movements
• 20 credits - Diplomatic History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict
• 20 credits - The Political Economy of Germany in a European Context
• 20 credits - Gender in World Politics
• 10 credits - Advanced Cultural Politics of Russian and Eastern Europe A10 credits - Advanced Cultural Politics of Russian and Eastern Europe B
• 10 credits - Political History of Central & Eastern Europe in the 20th C. A10 credits - Returning to Europe: Nation, State & Europe in Post-Communist Central and Eastern Europe B

Modules must total 120 credits

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

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

Requirements

• 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.

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.

Political Science at the University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive and stimulating undergraduate program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of political systems, ideologies, institutions, and behavior both in the UK and globally. The program emphasizes critical analysis, research skills, and a nuanced understanding of contemporary political issues. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. The curriculum is designed to develop not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills such as analytical reasoning, debate, and effective communication. The university's political science program is distinguished by its research-led teaching, which incorporates the latest findings and debates within the field. Students benefit from diverse teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The program often includes options for students to undertake placements or internships, providing valuable real-world experience and enhancing employability upon graduation. The university maintains strong links with political institutions, NGOs, and international organizations, offering students networking opportunities and insights into careers in politics, diplomacy, journalism, or public administration. Additionally, the program encourages engagement with current political issues, enabling students to apply their learning to contemporary debates and challenges. Graduates of Birmingham's Political Science program frequently progress into careers in government, international organizations, think tanks, journalism, and academia. The university also supports postgraduate study for those wishing to specialize further or pursue research careers. Overall, the program aims to produce informed, analytical, and critically-minded graduates prepared to contribute thoughtfully to society and the world of politics.