Politics and Economics

Politics and Economics at Newcastle University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between political institutions, economic policies, and their impact on societies worldwide. This programme is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of how political decisions influence economic outcomes and vice versa, providing the analytical tools necessary to navigate the interconnected realms of governance and economics. Students will explore core topics such as international relations, political theory, macroeconomics, microeconomics, public policy, and global economic systems, alongside developing critical thinking and research skills. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, encouraging students to analyze real-world issues such as economic development, globalization, political stability, and policy-making processes. Throughout the course, students will engage with case studies, participate in debates, and undertake independent research projects, fostering a proactive and analytical mindset. Newcastle University’s strong links with government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations provide students with valuable opportunities for internships and networking, enhancing employability upon graduation. The programme prepares graduates for careers in politics, public service, international organizations, economic consultancy, journalism, and academia. Emphasizing both qualitative and quantitative analysis, the course ensures students are well-equipped to understand and address contemporary challenges faced by governments and societies globally. With dedicated academic staff and state-of-the-art facilities, the programme promotes an innovative learning environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity, critical evaluation, and global awareness. Whether students are interested in pursuing further research or entering the professional world, Politics and Economics at Newcastle University offers a rigorous, engaging, and supportive educational experience designed to prepare them for a dynamic global landscape.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules

• ECO1002 Economic Analysis
• ECO1005 Economic Applications and Data Analysis
• ECO1010 Mathematics for Economics
• POL1131 Studying Political Economy: Ideas, Theories and Skills

Optional modules

You choose two modules from the list below:

• POL1017 Governing Under Pressure: The Politics of the UK and EU
• POL1032 Introduction to International Politics
• POL1046 Order and Disorder: The Shaping of the 21st Century
• POL1047 Power, Participation and Democracy: Comparative Perspectives
• POL1048 Foundations of Modern Political Thought

Stage 2

Compulsory modules

• ECO2003 Economic Modelling
• ECO2004 Microeconomic Analysis
• ECO2005 Macroeconomic Analysis

Optional modules

You choose three modules from the following list:

• POL2012 Politics of the Middle East
• POL2022 Government and Politics of the USA
• POL2034 The Politics and Policy of the European Union
• POL2078 Critical International Politics
• POL2082 Political Violence and the Modern State
• POL2087 Contemporary Russian Politics
• POL2088 The Politics of Africa: Africa's Place in Global Politics
• POL2090 Contemporary Political Philosophy
• POL2091 The Politics of Happiness
• POL2092 Party Politics: Quantitative Analysis of Parties Systems and Voter Choice
• POL2093 Politics, Participation and Citizenship in the Digital Age
• POL2094 The United Nations - An Introduction to International Organisation and Global Governance
• POL2095 Politics Work Experience - Student Engagement OR
• POL2096 Politics Work Placement 

Other optional modules may also be available from within the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology or the wider University.

Stage 3

Optional modules

You choose 60 credits of optional Economics modules from the list below:

• ECO3001 Advanced Microeconomics
• ECO3002 Advanced Macroeconomics
• ECO3004 Labour Economics
• ECO3005 Behavioural Economics and Experimental Methods
• ECO3006 Economics of Banking
• ECO3009 Price Discrimination
• ECO3014 Public Economics
• ECO3018 Financial Economics
• ECO3021 Economics of Risk and Uncertainty
• ECO3022 Health Economics
• ECO3026 Industrial Economics and Policy

You choose 60 credits of optional modules from the following list, to bring your total up to 120 credits:

• POL3046 Dissertation in Politics OR
• POL3047 Project in Politics: Semester 1 OR
• POL3048 Project in Politics: Semester 2
• POL3059 Democracy and the Constitution
• POL3071 Student Exchange: Semester 1
• POL3076 Student Exchange (Dissertation Students)
• POL3077 Global Poverty and Global Politics
• POL3078 Britain and the European Union
• POL3079 The Government and Politics of Italy
• POL3084 Student Exchange Semester 2 (Dissertation/research project)
• POL3085 Student Exchange: Semester 2
• POL3092 Political Parties and Elections in the UK
• POL3098 War, Genocide, Terror: Understanding Organised Violence
• POL3099 Power, Security and Protest in the Middle East
• POL3100 History of World Political Thought
• POL3103 Community Based Research in Politics
• POL3104 The Fall and Rise of China
• POL3106 Democracy in Deeply Divided Societies
• POL3108 The Politics of the Far Right in Europe
• POL3109 Gender, Campaigns and Media 
• POL3110 International Organisation and Diplomacy 
• POL3111 UK Parliamentary Studies
• POL3112 Revitalising British Democracy
• POL3113 Politics Work Experience – Research

You may take one POL 20 credit module from Stage 2 in place of a 20 credit module from above, if not already taken and the total number of level 5 credits studied at Stage 3 do not exceed 30. Other optional modules may also be available from other subject areas offered by the University.

Requirements

• Applicants whose first language is not English require a minimum score of IELTS 6.5
• GPA 4.0 or 80% average with specific grades or percentage in relevant subjects in at least one year of a Bakalavr at arecognised Russian University as comparable to ABB at A level
• GPA 4.0/5.0 or 80% average in at least one year of a Specialist Diploma in a recognised Russian university as comparable to ABB at A level
• A reference from a teacher, adviser or professional who knows you academically.
• A personal statement – this is where you can stand out from other applicants, so you should start thinking about this early.

Scholarships

• International Family Discount (IFD)
• International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship (IUMS)

The Politics and Economics program at Newcastle University offers a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected worlds of political processes and economic systems. Designed to equip students with analytical skills and critical insights, the degree explores the fundamental theories and contemporary issues in both disciplines. Students gain a solid foundation in political science, including governance, policy analysis, and international relations, alongside an in-depth study of economics, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic policy. The program encourages analytical thinking, research skills, and the ability to evaluate complex problems from multiple perspectives, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, government, international organizations, finance, and research. Classroom learning is complemented by practical sessions, seminars, and opportunities for internships or placements with relevant organizations, providing real-world experience. Newcastle University's strong focus on research-informed teaching ensures that students access the latest developments in the fields of politics and economics. The program also promotes an understanding of global challenges such as economic inequality, climate change, and international conflicts. Students can choose to specialize further through elective modules, enabling a tailored educational experience aligned with their career aspirations. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to analyze and respond to the complex political and economic challenges facing contemporary society. Additionally, students develop vital transferable skills including critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Overall, the Politics and Economics degree at Newcastle University provides a rigorous academic environment, a supportive community, and opportunities for personal and professional development, fostering graduates who are ready to make meaningful contributions across various sectors.