Politics (including Year Abroad)

Politics (including Year Abroad) BSc (Hons) at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, theories, and practices from around the world. This program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding how political institutions operate, how policies are formulated, and the ways in which politics influences societies and global affairs. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides students with an invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture, enhance language skills, and gain international perspectives on political issues. Throughout the course, students will examine a wide range of topics including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. They will develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills that are essential for careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, or academia. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and practical projects, with opportunities for students to engage in debates, simulations, and research initiatives. The Year Abroad typically involves studying at partner universities across Europe, North America, or other regions, allowing students to experience different political environments firsthand. Students will also have access to Essex’s strong links with political institutions, offering opportunities for placements, internships, and conferences. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to the field of politics both locally and globally. Upon completion, students will be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue further study or enter a wide range of careers related to political analysis, policy-making, diplomacy, or advocacy. The University of Essex is renowned for its modern approach to social sciences, supportive academic staff, and vibrant student community, making it an ideal place to study Politics (including Year Abroad).

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 (Including Year Abroad) your optional modules can be chosen from across the faculty in first year and from within the Department of Government in your second and final 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. You spend your third year abroad. 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 four-year course consists of 420 credits (120 credits in your first year, 60 credits in your third year abroad, 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

Year 2

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

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

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 degree at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of political theories, institutions, and processes that shape our world. It provides a solid foundation in understanding how governments operate, how policies are made, and the role of political actors at both national and international levels. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a deep understanding of contemporary political issues, preparing students for careers in government, journalism, research, or further academic study.

A distinctive feature of this course is the inclusion of a Year Abroad, which allows students to spend a year studying in a partner university in another country. This international exposure enriches students’ understanding of political systems and cultures outside the UK, fostering intercultural awareness and language skills. During their year abroad, students will have the opportunity to experience different pedagogical approaches and engage with diverse perspectives, which broadens their academic and personal horizons.

The curriculum covers essential topics such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. It also encourages the development of research skills and independent learning. Throughout the programme, students participate in seminars, workshops, and projects that simulate real-world political analysis. They are supported by experienced academics with expertise across various fields of political science.

The university also emphasizes employability and practical skills. Students can undertake internships, work placements, or participate in student organizations related to politics and human rights. The programme’s focus on research methodology and essay writing ensures graduates are well-equipped for further study or employment in competitive sectors.

Entry requirements typically include A-levels, Scottish Highers, or equivalent qualifications, with a preference for subjects like Politics, History, or Social Sciences. Prospective students should demonstrate interest in global issues, analytical reasoning, and academic curiosity.

Overall, the Politics programme at Essex aims to produce well-rounded graduates who can critically analyse political issues, understand international dynamics, and contribute effectively in various professional environments. The combination of rigorous academic content, practical experience, and international exposure makes this course a compelling choice for students interested in exploring the complexities of politics on a global scale.