BA in Economics, Politics and Law

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Dublin City University DCU

Program Overview

DCU’s BA in Economics, Politics and Law offers a dynamic blend of three key disciplines, ideal for students who want to understand how economic systems, political institutions, and legal frameworks shape society. The programme equips students with analytical, research, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for diverse careers in policy, law, business, or public service.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In the first year, students develop a strong foundation across economics, politics, and law with modules such as Introduction to Microeconomics, Introduction to Macroeconomics, Constitutional Law, Introduction to Politics, and Mathematics for Economics. These courses equip students with essential analytical tools and a clear understanding of how these three disciplines interact.

Year 2
The second year deepens knowledge with intermediate modules like Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, The Irish Political System, Law of Contract, and Public Finance. Students begin to apply theory to real-world challenges, learning to analyse policy, legal issues, and economic decisions in a practical context.

Year 3
In the final year, students focus on advanced topics such as Public Policy, Topics in Applied Economics, Jurisprudence, and electives across Economics, Politics, and Law like Financial Markets, Issues in American Politics, and Climate Change Law. The year also includes a Dissertation, allowing students to showcase independent research skills and specialise in areas of personal or professional interest.

Focus areas (in a string):

Economics foundations, political systems, legal principles, policy analysis, research methods, and specialised topics in law, politics, and economics.

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Develop critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research skills, legal reasoning, policy evaluation, and effective communication across economic, political, and legal contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Honours Bachelor Degree (Level 8 NFQ); prepares students for careers in public service, finance, consultancy, policy, law, and postgraduate studies.

Reputation (employability rankings):

DCU ranks #1 in Ireland for Graduate Employment Rate and 19th globally in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings, highlighting strong industry recognition of its graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This unique degree at DCU blends three powerful disciplines — economics, politics, and law — giving students a real edge in practical skills and employability. From the first year, students engage in hands‑on research methods, data analysis, and problem‑solving across the social sciences. As the program progresses, students can put theory into action through real‑world work placements, study abroad options, and independent research projects, building confidence and professional readiness.

What practical experience looks like here:

Once core skills in economics, politics, and law are established in Years 1 and 2, this programme gives students meaningful options to step outside the classroom and into professional environments:

Year‑long paid work placement (INTRA) — students can spend a full 12 months working in a real‑world role between their second and final year. Placements develop workplace professionalism, networks, and on‑the‑job experience that employers value highly.
Study abroad opportunities — students can spend a year at one of DCU’s partner universities in Europe or beyond, gaining cultural insight and academic depth.
Final‑year dissertation — a substantial independent research project where students investigate a topic that matters to them, build advanced analytical and writing skills, and showcase their expertise to future employers.
Research methods training — dedicated modules across the programme equip students with tools to evaluate economic data, policy outcomes, and legal systems, essential for careers requiring evidence‑based decision-making.

In addition to coursework and placements, students benefit from DCU’s campus resources:

Libraries and collaborative study spaces — extensive digital and print collections, group study rooms, and research skills workshops support in‑depth study and dissertation work.
Modern campus facilities — collaborative learning areas, computer workstations, wifi‑enabled spaces, and venues for public lectures or policy events.
Student communities and societies — including the Debate Society, Law Society, Politics Society, and the Dublin Law and Politics Review, helping students develop debating, leadership, and writing skills outside of class.
Career support — DCU’s Careers Service helps prepare CVs, practise interviews, and connect students with employers, supporting the transition from student to professional.

Why this matters for your future

Graduates leave DCU with versatile skills relevant to many sectors — from policy analysis, public service, finance, and consultancy to journalism, advocacy, and legal advisory roles. Students graduate not just with knowledge, but with confidence in applying it, whether navigating complex datasets, crafting persuasive arguments, or adapting in the workplace.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA in Economics, Politics and Law at Dublin City University (DCU) are equipped to step confidently into careers that shape policy, advise organisations, and influence public and private sector decisions, including roles such as Public Servant, Policy Analyst, Financial Consultant, and Legal Advisor:

DCU Careers Service supports students from day one with career planning, mentorship programmes, CV workshops, interview preparation, and employer networking events to connect you with jobs and internships.
DCU is ranked #1 in Ireland for graduate employment rate, demonstrating strong recognition by employers and excellent long‑term career value.
Many DCU graduates enter the workforce within months of graduation, supported by career fairs and targeted employer engagement; average starting salaries for DCU graduates in related fields are competitive within Ireland and Europe.
DCU offers INTRA placements and study abroad options, giving real‑world work experience or international exposure that significantly enhances employability.

Programme Highlights:

Interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates economics, political science, and law, providing versatile analytical, communication, research, and critical thinking skills.
Optional year abroad with partner universities across Europe and beyond, broadening cultural understanding and global networks.
INTRA year‑long paid placement opportunities giving practical experience and strengthening your CV.
Covers all subjects required for the Law Society of Ireland’s trainee solicitor entrance exams, positioning you well if you aim to pursue a legal profession pathway.
Access to student societies like the DCU Debate Society and Dublin Law and Politics Review, enhancing leadership and professional skills outside the classroom.

Further Academic Progression:

Postgraduate Master’s Degrees: After completing your BA, you could progress to specialised master’s programmes such as MSc in Public Policy or advanced social sciences and law‑related degrees at DCU or internationally.
Professional Qualifications: Graduates who want to enter legal practice can pursue professional legal qualifications, including solicitor training programmes.
Research and Academia: DCU’s solid foundation in research methods prepares you well for research‑led master’s or PhD pathways in economics, political science, law, or public policy.