University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Politics BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Politics BA (Hons) at the University of Portsmouth is your pathway to understanding the complex forces that shape our world, from local governance to global relations. You will explore critical themes in political thought, international relations, and comparative European politics, developing the analytical skills to dissect contemporary challenges like climate crises, autocracy, and the dynamics of empire. This undergraduate degree is designed for students eager to engage with the 'why' and 'how' of political systems, preparing you to critically assess societal structures and contribute informed perspectives.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, this programme immerses you in political analysis through modules such as 'Analysing Politics: Britain and Beyond' and 'Bending the Truth A Little? Researching Politics and International Relations'. You will develop essential critical thinking and professional identity skills, with opportunities to undertake a dissertation or major project in your final year, applying your knowledge to real-world issues. You will graduate with a robust understanding of political theory and practice, ready for diverse careers in government, policy, journalism, or international organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Politics degree provides a comprehensive exploration of political systems and theories. You will analyze contemporary political issues, delve into international relations, and examine political thought. The curriculum progresses through foundational concepts in the first year, offering specialized options in comparative politics, governance, and global challenges in the second year, culminating in advanced studies and a dissertation or major project in the final year.

1 Year 1

Analysing Politics: Britain and Beyond Compulsory
Critical Thinking and Professional Identity Compulsory
Global Development Compulsory
Key Themes in International Relations Compulsory
Political Thought Compulsory

2 Year 2

Comparative European Politics Compulsory
Bending the Truth A Little? Researching Politics and International Relations Compulsory
Autocracy and Democracy Optional
British Political Leadership Optional
Climate Crises Optional
US Politics Optional
Empire and its Afterlives in Britain, Europe and Africa Optional
Engaged Citizenship in Humanities and Social Sciences Optional
Global Security Optional
Ideology and Politics Optional
Intercultural Perspectives on Communication Optional
Marketing and Communication Optional
Modernity and Globalisation Optional
Nationalism and Migration: Chaos, Crisis and the Everyday Optional
News, Discourse and Media Optional
Principles of Economic Crime Investigation Optional
Puritans to Postmodernists: American Literature Optional
Transitional Justice and Human Rights Optional
Wildlife Crime: Threats and Response Optional
Democracies on Five Continents: Politics and Policy Challenges Optional
Gender and Social Justice Optional
Professional Experience Optional
The Geopolitics and Geo-Economics of Africa Optional

3 Year 3

Post-Brexit Politics Compulsory
Dissertation (Politics) Optional
Major Project Optional
Digital Media and Democracy Optional
Global Capitalism: Past, Present and Future Optional
NGOs and Social Movements Optional
Professional Development: Recruiters and Candidates Optional
Independent Project (Politics) Optional
France in the World: Global Actor or Global Maverick? Optional
Looking for Utopia, Finding Dystopia? Ideas and Ideologies in the New Millennium Optional
Professional Experience Optional
Religion and Politics in Global Perspective Optional
The European Union: A Global Power in the Making? Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,586.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationArchitecture & Urban PlanningCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCommercial & Industrial ConstructionCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationElectrical & Mechanical InstallationIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionReal Estate Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

University of Portsmouth

Why Study Politics BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Politics BA (Hons) at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

Degree students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language proficiency, the required scores are: TOEFL (overall 91), IELTS (overall 6.5), or PTE (overall 61). Specific component scores also apply, so please check the requirements carefully.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as political analysts, policy advisors, public relations specialists, government affairs managers, or lobbyists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Politics BA (Hons) course explores critical topics such as Brexit and the NHS. You'll gain insights into political theory and the functioning of Parliament while developing skills to influence policy.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Politics BA (Hons) course is September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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