BA Philosophy and Politics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The BA Philosophy and Politics at the University of Exeter brings together the study of philosophical ideas and political systems, helping students understand how societies function, how decisions are made, and how concepts such as justice, power, and democracy shape the world. This interdisciplinary degree is suited to students who enjoy exploring challenging questions, analysing different viewpoints, and developing strong critical thinking, research, and communication skills for a wide range of future careers.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop a strong foundation in philosophy and politics by exploring key ideas about knowledge, reasoning, morality, society, and political thought. Students study modules such as Knowledge and Reality 1, Evidence and Argument 1, Introduction to Philosophical Analysis, Philosophy of Morality, Classical Political Thought, and Early Modern Political Thought, while also exploring areas such as Globalisation of World Politics, Power and Democracy, Introduction to Comparative Politics, and The Challenges of World Politics in the Twenty-First Century. These modules help students build essential skills in critical analysis, structured argument, and understanding political debates.

Year 2:
The second year allows students to explore more complex philosophical and political ideas while strengthening their research and analytical abilities. Students study topics such as Philosophy of Mind 1, Body and Mind, Metaphysics, Philosophy of Language, and Philosophical Research, alongside politics modules including Political Thought of Modernity, Contemporary Theories of World Politics, The Politics of the World Economy, Security Studies, and Political Philosophy. Students can also select optional modules such as Ethics of Emerging Technologies, Philosophy of Law, Environmental Governance, and Research Design in the Social Sciences to personalise their learning.

Year 3: Study Abroad or Employment Experience (Optional):
Students can choose a four-year pathway that includes either studying abroad or gaining professional experience through employment. The Study Abroad option enables students to spend a year at an international partner university, developing global awareness and cultural understanding, while the Employment Experience option allows students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional workplace environment and gain valuable career experience.

Final Year:
In the final year, students engage with advanced philosophical and political debates while completing independent research. Students complete either a Philosophy Dissertation or Dissertation and choose from advanced topics such as Phenomenology, Existentialism, Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Law, History of Philosophy, Political Philosophy, Security Studies, Comparative Electoral Systems, and Environmental Governance. This stage allows students to explore their own areas of interest and demonstrate advanced research and analytical skills.

Focus Areas

Philosophical reasoning, ethics, political theory, democracy, political institutions, global politics, international relations, public policy, social justice, political economy, security studies, research methods, critical thinking, and contemporary political challenges.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to analyse complex ideas, evaluate evidence, understand political systems, conduct independent research, and communicate arguments effectively. The programme helps students build valuable transferable skills including critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, teamwork, and the ability to approach social and political issues from different perspectives.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The BA Philosophy and Politics develops skills that are highly valued across sectors such as government, law, education, business, media, research, and non-profit organisations. While the degree is not linked to a specific professional accreditation, it provides an excellent foundation for careers that require analytical thinking, ethical understanding, policy awareness, and strong communication skills.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter offers a research-led learning environment where students benefit from expert teaching, independent research opportunities, and practical experiences such as study abroad and employment pathways. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme helps graduates develop the intellectual flexibility, global awareness, and professional skills required to succeed in a wide variety of career fields.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA Philosophy and Politics at the University of Exeter provides students with practical opportunities to strengthen their analytical thinking, research skills, communication abilities, and professional confidence. Through interactive seminars, discussions, independent research, collaborative activities, and opportunities such as study abroad or employment experience, students learn how philosophical ideas and political theories can be applied to real-world challenges. The programme is supported by excellent academic resources, library facilities, digital learning tools, and opportunities to engage with research-led teaching and wider academic communities.

Students develop their academic and professional skills through a range of practical learning experiences:

Study Abroad opportunities: Students can choose the four-year BA Philosophy and Politics with Study Abroad option, which allows them to spend their third year studying at one of the University of Exeter’s international partner institutions. This experience helps students gain global perspectives, develop cultural awareness, and improve their independence and adaptability.
Employment Experience pathway: Students can choose the four-year Employment Experience option, which includes a dedicated year to gain professional workplace experience. This allows students to apply their knowledge of philosophy, politics, research, and communication skills in a practical work environment.
Seminar-based learning: Students participate in interactive seminars where they explore philosophical arguments, analyse political theories, and discuss current social and global issues. These sessions help students develop confidence in presenting ideas, debating viewpoints, and constructing strong arguments.
Collaborative learning and group activities: Students take part in group discussions and collaborative activities that encourage teamwork, communication, and the exchange of different perspectives while examining complex philosophical and political topics.
Independent research projects: Students develop research skills through essays, projects, and dissertation work. They learn how to evaluate evidence, use academic sources, develop arguments, and investigate topics related to philosophy, politics, and contemporary issues.
Philosophy and Politics societies: Students can engage with subject-related societies, academic events, guest lectures, and discussions that allow them to explore ideas beyond the classroom and connect with other students who share similar interests.
Library and research resources: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s library facilities, online journals, academic databases, and specialist research materials that support their studies in philosophy, politics, international relations, and related disciplines.
Digital learning resources: Students use online learning platforms, digital academic resources, and research tools to access course materials, support independent study, and develop effective research skills.
Academic guidance and support: Students receive support from personal tutors and academic staff who provide guidance, feedback, and advice throughout their studies, helping them progress academically and personally.
Research-led teaching: Students learn from academics involved in research across areas such as political theory, ethics, global politics, and philosophy. This allows students to engage with current debates and contemporary academic perspectives.
Career-focused skill development: Through debates, research activities, presentations, and practical experiences, students develop transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making that are valued by employers across government, law, media, business, and charitable sectors.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA Philosophy and Politics at the University of Exeter prepares graduates with a strong combination of analytical thinking, research ability, communication skills, and an understanding of social and political issues. The programme helps students develop the confidence to evaluate complex ideas, understand different perspectives, and apply their knowledge in professional settings, leading to careers such as Civil Service Officer, Policy Adviser, Teacher, Researcher, Management Consultant, Business Analyst, Marketing and Communications Professional, and Public Relations Specialist.

By combining philosophical reasoning with political analysis, students graduate with flexible skills that are valued across public, private, and charitable sectors. Exeter supports students in developing their employability through career guidance, professional development programmes, employer engagement, and practical opportunities such as study abroad and employment experiences:

Career support through Career Zone: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s Career Zone, which provides personalised career advice, employability workshops, skills sessions, employer events, careers fairs, and guidance to help students explore career options and prepare for future employment.
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award: Students can take part in these employability programmes to develop professional skills through workshops, volunteering opportunities, and work-related activities. These awards help students demonstrate their skills, achievements, and experiences to future employers.
Graduate career destinations: Graduates can move into careers across areas such as government, the Civil Service, education, research, business, finance, charities, non-governmental organisations, media, marketing, public relations, consulting, and policy-related roles. The degree’s focus on analysis, communication, and independent thinking supports a wide range of professional pathways.
Employment outcomes: The University of Exeter reports that 92% of graduates in Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology were employed or in further study 15 months after graduation according to the HESA Graduate Outcomes survey 2022/23.
Study Abroad and employment experience opportunities: Students can choose a four-year pathway that includes either Study Abroad or Employment Experience. These options allow students to gain international exposure or workplace experience, helping them develop independence, professional confidence, and practical skills that strengthen their career prospects.
Employer engagement and professional development: Students benefit from careers fairs, employer events, networking opportunities, and skills workshops that help them understand different industries and connect with potential employers. These activities support the development of communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Long-term value of the degree: The skills gained through Philosophy and Politics remain valuable across changing industries. The ability to analyse information, understand different viewpoints, communicate clearly, and approach challenges logically provides graduates with a strong foundation for long-term career growth.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates have progressed into employment and further study by using their skills in research, analysis, communication, and decision-making. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree allows students to adapt to different career opportunities and pursue roles across multiple sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Philosophy and Politics, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as philosophy, political theory, international relations, public policy, human rights, law, education, and social research. Students may choose advanced degrees such as an MA in Philosophy, MA Political Theory, MA International Relations, MA Human Rights, or other related postgraduate programmes to specialise further and enhance their career opportunities.