BA (Hons) Politics with a Placement Year

The BA (Hons) Politics with a Placement Year at the University of East Anglia (UEA) offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both the academic world of politics and the practicalities of working in real-world political settings. It’s a program designed not just to teach you about political systems but to prepare you for a successful career by providing you with hands-on experience and essential professional skills.

From the very start, you'll engage with thought-provoking modules that challenge your thinking and build your analytical skills. In your third year, you'll undertake a full-time, paid placement, applying your political knowledge in actual work environments like think tanks, NGOs, or government departments, helping you develop skills that employers value.

To support your career progression, UEA offers the STEPS Module, designed to equip you with the professional skills you'll need, from employability to career development. You'll also have access to guest lectures and networking events, connecting you with professionals and experts who can help guide your career.

Throughout your studies, you'll be encouraged to get involved with exciting student-led initiatives like the Norwich Economic Publications journal or the ECO Blog, where you can publish your research and share your analyses with a wider audience.

Moreover, UEA provides valuable workshops that enhance skills like data analysis, political communication, and research techniques, ensuring you're well-prepared for the demands of the political world.

UEA also offers excellent resources to support your learning, including:

• UEA Careers Service: Expert advice on finding placements, internships, and political career opportunities.

• Learning Enhancement Team: Help with improving your writing, time management, and critical thinking skills.

• UEA Library Resources: A wealth of political science databases and journals to support your research.

• Collaborations with External Organizations: Opportunities to work with NGOs, think tanks, and government bodies, expanding your network and professional experience.

This course provides not just theoretical knowledge but real, practical experience, preparing you for a fulfilling career in politics. You’ll graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to step straight into the professional world.

For more details on the facilities available to you, visit UEA’s official facilities page. This is your chance to study politics in a way that prepares you for success—UEA is ready to support you every step of the way!

The BA (Hons) Politics with a Placement Year at the University of East Anglia (UEA) is the perfect program for students looking to make an impact in the world of politics. With a strong academic foundation and a full year of hands-on experience, you’ll leave the program not just with knowledge, but with real-world skills that employers value.

Graduates of this program have gone on to exciting careers in roles such as:

• Political Analyst

• Public Affairs Consultant

• Policy Advisor

• Government Relations Officer

The combination of theory and practical experience helps you step confidently into the professional world.

University Services Supporting Employment:

• UEA Careers Service: The team here offers personalized support to help you secure placements, internships, and political career opportunities. They’ll be with you every step of the way as you build your career in politics.

• Learning Enhancement Team: Dedicated to helping you develop essential skills such as writing, critical thinking, and time management. This support ensures you're always prepared for professional environments.

• External Collaborations: Through partnerships with various organizations, including NGOs, think tanks, and government bodies, you'll be able to expand your professional network and gain insights from the industry.

Graduate Outcomes & Employment Stats:

While specific data for the BA Politics with a Placement Year isn’t available, UEA has an impressive track record: 81% of UEA graduates from the 2021/22 cohort were employed in professional roles or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduating.

University–Industry Partnerships:

UEA's connections with organizations like the Norfolk & Suffolk NHS Trust, JLL Real Estate, and NatWest create valuable opportunities for hands-on experience, allowing you to apply your political knowledge to real-world situations and connect with professionals in the field.

Long-Term Accreditation Value:

The Placement Year offers a unique advantage, helping you build a strong professional foundation that is recognized and highly valued by employers in both the public and private sectors.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing your degree, UEA offers multiple pathways to further your studies:

• Master’s Degrees: Deepen your expertise with postgraduate courses in Public Policy, International Relations, or Political Science.

• PhD Programs: If you're interested in research, UEA offers opportunities to pursue a PhD and contribute to the academic field of political science.

• Professional Qualifications: Enhance your qualifications in areas like public administration or political consultancy to take your career to the next level.

UEA’s BA Politics with a Placement Year isn’t just about learning; it’s about preparing you for a future in the political world, whether that’s entering the workforce or continuing your academic journey.