BA Politics and...

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

SOAS University of London

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about global affairs but want to keep your academic journey flexible, the BA Politics and… degree at SOAS University of London lets you do exactly that. This combined-honours program allows you to pair Politics with another discipline—such as Economics, Law, History, Languages, or Development Studies—so you graduate with a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of how societies, governments, and people interact on a global scale.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll start by exploring the foundations of political thought and systems through modules like Introduction to Political Analysis, Political Theory, and Comparative Politics. At the same time, you’ll begin your second subject—whether it’s learning the fundamentals of economics, legal reasoning, or a new language. This combination helps you build a solid academic base while connecting theory to real-world contexts.

Year 2:
Your studies become more specialized as you apply political concepts to regional and global issues. You’ll study topics such as Politics of the World Economy, Postcolonial Theory, and International Relations of South Asia. Depending on your second subject, you could also take region-specific modules like Government and Politics of China or State and Politics in Africa. If you’re studying a language or region-focused track, you might even have the chance to spend a year abroad—an invaluable way to immerse yourself in a new culture while earning credit.

Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll take advanced electives and may complete a research project or dissertation in Politics. Modules such as Gender and Politics, Globalisation and Global Governance, and The Politics of Global Migration help you dive deeper into issues that shape modern society. Your combined subject continues alongside, giving you the freedom to craft a degree that reflects your personal interests and career ambitions.

Focus Areas

Comparative politics • International relations • Regional studies (Asia, Africa, Middle East) • Political theory • Global governance • Postcolonialism

Learning Outcomes

By the end of your degree, you’ll be able to critically evaluate political systems, integrate insights from multiple disciplines, conduct independent research, and communicate complex ideas with clarity and confidence.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree is part of SOAS’s world-renowned Department of Politics and International Studies, known for its research expertise and regional specialisations. While not tied to a specific professional accreditation, it’s highly respected by employers and graduate schools worldwide.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Ranked 6th in the UK and 28th globally for Politics (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Ranked Top 15 in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Complete University Guide 2026)
Recognised globally for its unique regional focus and strong employer reputation

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SOAS, studying Politics is an active, engaging experience. You won’t just learn about political systems—you’ll debate ideas, research real-world issues, and explore how power operates across different regions. Every class encourages discussion, teamwork, and hands-on analysis, preparing you for a world where global awareness and critical thinking are key. You’ll also benefit from London’s international energy—surrounded by embassies, NGOs, and global institutions that make your classroom experience come alive.

Here’s how SOAS helps you learn by doing:

Research Centres & Real-World Impact: Get involved with the university’s leading institutes like the Centre on Conflict, Rights and Justice or the Centre for Energy and Climate Policy, where classroom theory meets pressing global challenges such as human rights, sustainability, and governance.
Interactive Teaching: Most classes are taught in small seminars that encourage debate and discussion, helping you sharpen your analytical and communication skills through real-time feedback and collaboration.
Independent Research Projects: In your final year, you’ll design your own research project or dissertation in Politics or your second subject—exploring issues like gender justice, climate policy, or postcolonial governance, guided by expert supervision.
Exceptional Library Resources: The SOAS Library—one of the world’s top collections for Asian, African, and Middle Eastern studies—gives you access to rare political archives, historical documents, and global data sources to enrich your work.
Global London Advantage: Studying in London places you at the centre of global dialogue. You’ll have opportunities to attend talks, join student societies, and connect with organisations shaping today’s political landscape.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from SOAS means stepping into the world with global awareness, critical insight, and the confidence to make real change. The BA Politics and… (Combined Honours) degree prepares you to navigate international systems, challenge injustices, and understand how policy and power shape our societies. With strong analytical, research, and communication skills, SOAS graduates thrive in careers that bridge government, diplomacy, development, and media.

Typical career paths include Human Rights and Advocacy, Journalism and International Correspondence, Political and Risk Analysis, and Project Management in NGOs or global organisations.

Here’s how SOAS helps you move from learning to leading:

Career Support from Day One: The SOAS Careers Service offers one-on-one coaching, internship placements, volunteering opportunities, and employer networking events — helping you find your path while you study.
Strong Graduate Outcomes: Over 80% of Politics graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, with an average salary of around £30,000 (DiscoverUni 2025).
Global Network & Reputation: SOAS graduates are highly sought after by organisations such as Amnesty International, Oxfam, BBC World Service, and government ministries across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Recognised Worldwide: A SOAS degree is internationally respected, valued for its unique focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East — giving you an edge in international roles and postgraduate admissions.
Real-World Connections: London’s location puts you at the heart of global politics — surrounded by embassies, NGOs, think tanks, and international organisations, many of which collaborate with SOAS through talks, research, and internships.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates continue their journey with postgraduate study — pursuing Master’s degrees in Politics, International Relations, Global Development, or Diplomacy, either at SOAS or other leading universities. Others progress into PhD research or professional training in areas like Law, Journalism, or Public Policy, deepening their expertise and global influence.