BA/Bsc Political Economy

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Kings College London

Program Overview

The Political Economy BA/BSc at King’s College London is an interdisciplinary program that blends political science, economics, and public policy.  BA: Focuses more on qualitative analysis, political theory, and policy studies. BSc: Emphasizes quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and economic modelling.

Core Focus Areas

  • Advanced concepts in economics and political science
  • Emphasis on qualitative and quantitative analytical skills
  • Study of public policy, political theory, and economic institutions
  • Modules covering theory and empirical analysis in political economy

Year 1:

  • Foundational modules in political science and economics
  • Introduction to political economy concepts

Year 2:

  • Intermediate modules in political theory and economic analysis
  • Optional modules to tailor your degree towards BA or BSc

Year 3:

  • Advanced topics in political economy
  • Optional dissertation or research project​


Teaching, Learning & Assessment

You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, and group tutorials, but most of your learning (up to 88% by final year) comes through independent study. You’ll be assessed through a mix of written exams, essays, coursework, and presentations. Some modules also include informal assessments to help guide your learning throughout the course.
 

Politics: Ranked 4th in the UK and 12th globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

Economics: Ranked 8th in the UK according to the Complete University Guide 2025

Political Economy: Ranked 5th in the UK by EduRank.


 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Undergraduate Research Opportunities: King’s offers the King’s Undergraduate Research Fellowship (KURF), providing students the opportunity to engage in research projects across various departments, including economics. Successful applicants receive a stipend and formal recognition on their Higher Education Achievement Record. ​

Academic Projects and Labs: Students can participate in interdisciplinary research groups and projects, fostering collaboration across philosophy, politics, and economics disciplines.

Internship Opportunities: King’s Careers & Employability provides resources and support for securing internships in sectors such as:​

  • Financial Firms: Opportunities in banking and investment.
  • Policy Think Tanks: Engagement with public policy research.
  • Consulting Firms: Experience in economic and strategic consulting.​

Specific internship programs include the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Summer Associate Internship Programme and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Research Programme. ​

Study Abroad: Students have the opportunity to study abroad during their second year at partner institutions such as:

  • University of Hong Kong
  • National University of Singapore
  • Georgetown University
  • University of California
  • Sciences Po Paris

BSc students must ensure the availability of equivalent modules, especially in econometrics, at the host institution.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduate Employability Outcomes: According to the Graduate Outcomes survey, over 90% of King's graduates are in highly-skilled employment 15 months after completing their course.

Career Services: King’s offers career support through:​

  • Sector-specific Career Fairs: Events connecting students with potential employers.
  • Alumni Networking Events: Opportunities to engage with former students.
  • Mentoring Programs: Guidance from experienced professionals.

Economics graduates from top UK universities report average starting salaries of £32,000–£40,000, rising with roles in consulting and finance.

Progression to Postgraduate Education: Graduates often pursue advanced degrees in Economics, Public Policy, or related fields. King's offers postgraduate programs such as the Economics & Policy MSc, focusing on applying economic methodologies to policy-making. ​

Program Key Stats

£35,800
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


13 %

Eligibility Criteria

A*AA
3.5
38
90

N/A
N/A
7.0
100

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Policy Analyst – Evaluate how institutions and markets interact
  • Economic Development Officer – Work on institutional reform and growth strategies
  • Regulatory Economist – Study the impact of regulation on business and society
  • Academic – Teach or research political economy or development economics
  • NGO Policy Specialist – Design economic programs informed by political realities
  • Government Economist – Produce forecasts and policy recommendations
  • Political Risk Analyst – Examine how politics affects business or finance
  • Public Affairs Advisor – Support stakeholder engagement in complex political contexts
  • Journalist – Report on markets government and power structures
  • Campaign Strategist – Use economic arguments in political messaging
  • Consultant – Advise on the interaction between public policy and business
  • International Development Analyst – Analyze governance issues and economic reform
  • Legislative Analyst – Interpret economic consequences of political decisions
  • Entrepreneur – Build businesses that respond to policy shifts or gaps
  • Diplomatic Officer – Represent government in political economic negotiations

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