Politics

Politics at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive and dynamic programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of political systems, ideologies, and power structures both in the UK and globally. This degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to critically analyse political events, institutions, and policies. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy, providing students with a well-rounded education in the field of politics. Students will engage with contemporary issues such as globalization, democracy, human rights, and environmental politics through lectures, seminars, and research projects. The university encourages critical thinking, debate, and independent research, preparing students for careers in government, journalism, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, or further academic study. The programme is supported by a team of experienced academics and practitioners who bring a wealth of expertise and real-world perspectives. Typically lasting three years full-time or four years with a placement year, the course offers flexible options to tailor the degree to individual interests and career aspirations. Modern facilities, a vibrant student community, and opportunities for internships and exchanges enhance the learning experience. Graduates from the Politics programme at Essex are well-equipped with analytical, communication, and research skills valued in many sectors, making them competitive in the job market. Join us to explore the complexities of politics and develop the skills necessary to influence and understand the world around you.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our course are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you have 30 credits of compulsory modules and 90 credits of optional modules. For BA Politics your optional modules can be chosen from across the faculty in first year and from within the Department of Government in your second and third year. There is a great deal of choice for these optional modules due to the extensive range of modules offered by our departments.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
During your second year you will have 60 credits of compulsory modules and you will take a further 60 credits of optional modules. In your final year you will have complete choice where you will have 120 credits of optional modules, although 30 credits can be in the form of a dissertation or a module from the Faculty of Social Science.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Introduction to Politics;
two social science options; and
one social science option or one humanities option">Introduction to Politics;
two social science options; and
one social science option or one humanities option

Year 2

Political Analysis;
Introduction to Political Theory; and
two politics options

Year 3

Four politics options (in certain circumstances, one politics option may be substituted by a project, a language option or one option in another social science department)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

• A-levels: AAB-ABB
• GCSE English: C and GCSE Maths: C
• IB: 33-32 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 12 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above).

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at the University of Essex please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Politics bachelor's degree at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth understanding of political systems, ideologies, and institutions on a global scale. The program is designed to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and a thorough knowledge of contemporary political issues. Students explore a variety of topics, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy, preparing them for careers in government, journalism, advocacy, or further academic research. The curriculum typically combines lectures, seminars, and research projects, encouraging active participation and debate. The university's strong emphasis on research-informed teaching ensures that students engage with current political debates and issues, including human rights, global conflicts, and emerging political trends. Elective modules allow students the flexibility to specialise in areas such as environmental politics, security studies, or political economy. The program benefits from the university’s strategic location in Essex, providing opportunities for internships and engagement with political organizations. Students also have access to a range of resources, including well-equipped libraries, online databases, and expert lecturers with extensive experience in political science. The program often includes assessed coursework, essays, presentations, and examinations, with an emphasis on developing clear, evidence-based arguments. Graduates of the Politics program are well-equipped to pursue careers in public service, international organizations, journalism, or continue their education through postgraduate studies. The University of Essex’s focus on diversity, inclusion, and an international outlook fosters an enriching environment for learning about politics from multiple perspectives.