Politics, BA (Hons)

At Swansea, studying Politics is far more than just learning theory in the classroom — it’s about experiencing how politics actually works in the real world. This degree gives you numerous opportunities to step beyond textbooks, engage with real political institutions, and develop the hands-on skills employers value. Whether you’re analysing political data, debating policy decisions, or working alongside politicians, you’ll gain the kind of practical experience that sets you apart in the job market.

Here’s how Swansea brings politics to life during your studies:

• Learn directly from politicians: The unique British Parliamentary Studies module is partly taught by Members of Parliament and even includes a visit to the House of Commons, giving you firsthand insight into how political decisions are made.

• Professional work placements: You’ll have the chance to complete a placement with the National Assembly for Wales (Senedd Cymru), where you could work alongside Assembly Ministers and witness the policymaking process up close.

• Optional year in industry: Choose the four-year pathway and spend your third year working full-time in a professional political or public policy environment — an invaluable way to build experience before graduation.

• Global study opportunities: Through Swansea’s international partnerships, you can spend a semester abroad in places like Hong Kong, Singapore, or the USA, gaining a broader perspective on global politics and governance.

• Practical, skills-based learning: Modules like Disinformation, Ideology and Bias (PO-127) teach you how to examine political data and critically evaluate how political narratives are shaped — essential skills for careers in policy, media, or research.

• Networking through seminars and events: You’ll benefit from guest lectures, research seminars, and talks by political professionals, giving you opportunities to build networks and deepen your understanding of contemporary political issues.

A degree in Politics from Swansea opens the door to a huge range of exciting and meaningful careers. With strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of political systems, and the ability to evaluate policies and influence change, you’ll be well prepared to work in government, public policy, media, research, and beyond. Many graduates go on to careers as Policy Analysts, Political Advisors, Public Affairs Specialists, or Consultants, helping shape decisions that affect society on a local, national, and global scale.

Here’s how Swansea helps you launch a successful career:

• Tailored career support: The university’s Careers & Employability Service and Swansea Employability Academy provide one-to-one guidance, workshops, mock interviews, and networking events. You’ll also get access to exclusive job and placement listings throughout your degree.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Swansea Politics graduates report average earnings of around £22,500 within 15 months of graduation, demonstrating the degree’s real-world value and relevance.

• Top graduate prospects: Politics at Swansea ranks among the Top 15 in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Complete University Guide), reflecting the strength of the programme’s teaching and employability focus.

• Industry connections and work experience: Opportunities like the British Parliamentary Studies module — taught in part by Members of Parliament — and placements with the Welsh Government (Senedd Cymru) give you invaluable exposure to real political institutions and policy-making environments.

• Highly transferable skills: Even though the degree isn’t tied to a single professional accreditation, the skills you’ll build — from policy evaluation and research to communication and leadership — are in high demand across government, NGOs, consultancy, law, media, and public affairs.

• Diverse career paths: Swansea graduates have gone on to work in public policy, government and politics, diplomacy, international organisations, education, media and communications, and business, showing just how versatile this degree can be.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to specialise further, this degree provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study. Many graduates continue to master’s degrees or PhDs in Public Policy, Political Theory, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Governance, or Global Development, leading to careers in academia, research institutes, think tanks, high-level policy roles, or international organisations.