Politics BA Honours

At Newcastle, politics isn’t just something you read about in books — it’s something you actively do. From your very first year, you’ll be guided to develop practical skills in research, analysis, and communication. Whether it’s through learning advanced statistical software, collaborating on group projects, or working with real organisations, the course is designed to make sure you graduate with more than just knowledge: you’ll leave with hands-on experience that employers really value.

Here’s what that looks like day-to-day:

• Learn by doing research – you’ll move from basic study skills in Year 1 to mastering both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including hands-on training in statistical software like R.

• Work on real-world projects – in later years you can carry out political research for local councils and organisations, applying classroom learning to real issues.

• Placement year opportunity – between your second and final year, you can take a full 9–12 month work placement, gaining professional experience and insights that will stand out on your CV.

• Go global with study abroad – you’ll have the option to spend a semester (or even a year) overseas at one of Newcastle’s international partner universities, giving you first-hand exposure to different political systems and cultures.

• Final-year dissertation – you’ll take on an independent research project, collecting and analysing your own data, and developing the kind of critical thinking and project-management skills that employers look for.

And to support all of this, you’ll study in the modern Henry Daysh Building, use dedicated computer labs and IT services, and have full access to Newcastle’s outstanding libraries and digital resources. Personal tutors will also be there to guide you through your academic and career choices, making sure you’re supported at every step.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have the confidence to design research, handle data, present arguments clearly, and work with real organisations — all skills that will prepare you for careers in policy, media, NGOs, government, and beyond.

A Politics degree from Newcastle opens the door to a wide range of exciting career paths. Because you’ll graduate with strong skills in research, analysis, and communication, you’ll be prepared for roles in government, policy, media, and beyond. Many of our graduates step into careers such as policy analyst, public affairs consultant, NGO researcher, or communications officer — jobs where you can really make a difference in how societies work.

And it’s not just about the degree itself: Newcastle makes sure you’re supported every step of the way:

• Dedicated career support – from day one you’ll have access to the University’s award-winning Careers Service, offering one-to-one guidance, CV workshops, and employer networking events.

• Career development modules & internships – in your final year you can take a module that links directly to work experience, and many students secure internships or placements with charities, political parties, and NGOs.

• Strong employment outcomes – 94% of Newcastle graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, and Politics graduates typically earn around £28,500 three years after graduating.

• Employer connections – the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology works closely with local councils, NGOs, government bodies, and think tanks, so you’ll have opportunities to engage with real organisations while you study.

• Skills with long-term value – the degree is built around Newcastle’s graduate attributes, like critical thinking, global awareness, and strong communication — skills that employers recognise across sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to keep studying, this degree sets you up perfectly for postgraduate routes. Many students go on to master’s degrees in areas like International Relations, Public Policy, or Political Theory, while others move into specialist study such as research methods or data analysis. You can also branch into professional pathways such as law or journalism, or even continue into a PhD if you want to pursue research or teaching at a higher level.