Politics BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Politics at Nottingham Trent University is perfect for students who want to understand how governments, movements, and institutions shape our world—and how you can shape them in return. You’ll explore real political issues, from media influence to global power struggles, and learn to debate, research, and campaign with confidence.

Curriculum Structure

Year One – You’ll start by exploring what politics really means and why it matters. Through modules like Politics, British Politics and Beyond, and Media Power and Truth, you’ll learn how political ideas take form and how the media, parties, and public opinion interact to shape decisions that affect everyday life.

Year Two – You’ll move from understanding politics to doing politics. Modules such as UK Parliamentary Studies, Applied Social Research, and Careers and Experience in Politics and International Relations bring classroom learning into the real world. You’ll develop research and analysis skills, visit Parliament, and start to build your professional experience through placements or community engagement.

Final Year – You’ll take charge of your learning through an independent Dissertation or a policy-based research project. Modules like Leadership, Activism, and Campaigning let you turn your ideas into action, designing and running your own campaign. You can also tailor your studies through optional topics such as global security, human rights, or the politics of art and culture.

Focus Areas

Political theory • Global governance • Media and communications • Leadership and activism • Policy and campaigning • Research and data analysis

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to analyse complex political systems, think critically about policy and power, communicate ideas clearly, and lead campaigns that make an impact. You’ll graduate with confidence, global awareness, and the ability to influence real change.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While not formally accredited, the course is strongly career-oriented. You’ll gain hands-on experience through placements, research projects, and networking with political professionals, preparing you for roles across public service, NGOs, media, and international organisations.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

NTU ranks among the UK’s top universities for teaching quality and student experience in Politics (The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2026).
100% of students felt supported academically, and 91% were satisfied with teaching quality (NSS 2025).
89% of graduates were in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, earning an average of £26,000.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Nottingham Trent University, the BA (Hons) Politics course is all about taking ideas off the page and into the real world. You won’t just read about political systems — you’ll step into them, analyse them, and experience how decisions are made. Through interactive classes, placements, and partnerships, you’ll build the kind of professional skills that make you employable and confident in any political, policy, or media environment.

Here’s how NTU makes sure you learn through real experiences:

Professional placements: Complete a 90-hour short placement in your second year or opt for a full-year work placement to gain hands-on experience in government, NGOs, think tanks, or advocacy groups.
Simulations and campaigns: Take part in mock parliaments, policy debates, and live campaign projects through modules like Politics and International Relations in Practice and Leadership, Activism and Campaigning.
Community engagement: Collaborate with local organisations such as Nottingham Citizens, using your political knowledge to tackle real community challenges and lead social initiatives.
Research and digital tools: Learn to collect, analyse, and present data using NTU’s online learning environment (NOW) and digital research software integrated into coursework.
Modern learning environment: Study at NTU’s City Campus with access to the Boots Library, computer labs, study zones, and specialist employability support designed specifically for social science students.

This hands-on approach ensures every student graduates with the confidence to connect theory to impact — ready for a future in politics, policy, or global leadership.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Nottingham Trent University’s BA (Hons) Politics go on to make a real difference in the world — from shaping public policy to driving community change and leading communications strategies. The course gives you a strong academic foundation and the kind of practical experience that employers truly value, opening doors to roles such as Policy Assistant, Communications Officer, Public Affairs Consultant, or Research and Data Analyst.

Here’s how NTU helps you prepare for success:

Tailored career support: NTU’s dedicated Employability Team offers personalised guidance, from one-to-one career planning sessions to CV feedback and interview coaching, ensuring you’re career-ready by the time you graduate.
Strong graduate outcomes: 89% of Politics graduates were in work or further study within 15 months, earning an average starting salary of around £26,000 (Discover Uni).
Real-world connections: Through partnerships with local councils, NGOs, and civic organisations such as Nottingham Citizens, you’ll gain networking experience and see how political ideas translate into action.
Career-focused curriculum: The course builds professional skills like negotiation, research, media literacy, and campaign design — helping you stand out in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Long-term value: A Politics degree from NTU carries wide recognition and flexibility, supporting careers in government, advocacy, law, business, or journalism.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates continue their journey with postgraduate study, pursuing master’s degrees in Politics, International Relations, or Public Policy, while others progress into research roles or specialised professional training.