BA (Hons) Politics with a Year Abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of East Anglia

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Politics with a Year Abroad at UEA is perfect for anyone passionate about understanding the world’s political systems, governance, and global issues, while also getting a chance to experience life in a different country. This unique four-year program combines solid political science education with the exciting opportunity to study abroad, making it ideal for students eager to broaden their horizons and gain real-world international experience.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Laying the Foundations

In your first year, you’ll dive into the essentials of political analysis, covering everything from political theory to international relations. You'll take courses like Introduction to Political Analysis and Global Politics, which will help you build a solid understanding of how politics works at both local and global levels.

Year 2: Deepening Your Knowledge

In your second year, you’ll start specializing and taking a closer look at political ideologies, public policy, and institutions. Modules such as Political Ideologies and Public Policy Analysis will develop your critical thinking and give you a deeper insight into how political systems operate and evolve.

Year 3: Study Abroad

The third year is a highlight of the program: you’ll spend it abroad at one of UEA's partner universities, immersing yourself in a different political and cultural environment. This experience will help you see firsthand how politics operates in different parts of the world, giving you a global perspective that can’t be replicated in the classroom.

Year 4: Advanced Exploration

In your final year, you’ll tackle more advanced topics like political economy, international security, and political philosophy. Courses such as Advanced Political Economy and International Security will challenge you to think critically about complex issues, preparing you for a range of professional opportunities in politics, government, or international relations.


Focus Areas

Political theory, Comparative politics, International relations, Public policy, Political ideologies, Political economy, International security


Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, you’ll be able to critically analyze political systems, understand global political dynamics, evaluate different political ideologies, and carry out independent research in political science. Your year abroad will also give you a fresh, global perspective, making you a highly versatile candidate for international roles.


Professional Alignment

This degree is designed with career-readiness in mind, offering you the skills and knowledge needed for work in politics, government, international organizations, NGOs, and policy analysis. Your year abroad will also give you a competitive edge when entering the job market.


Reputation

UEA’s Politics program is known for its solid academic foundation and focus on global political perspectives. With a reputation for both its research and teaching, the university is well-regarded in the field of political science education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA (Hons) Politics with a Year Abroad at UEA is all about blending theory with real-world experience. You'll not only learn about politics in the classroom but also have the chance to apply your knowledge in practical settings that will prepare you for a successful career. With the added bonus of spending a year abroad, you'll gain invaluable global perspectives on politics, which will help shape your academic and professional future.

UEA’s emphasis on experiential learning ensures you’ll leave with more than just academic knowledge – you’ll gain practical skills that are highly sought after by employers. Here’s a look at some of the hands-on opportunities available:

  • Study Abroad Year: In your third year, you’ll get the chance to study at one of UEA’s partner universities around the world. This isn’t just about traveling – it’s about immersing yourself in different political systems and cultures, which will broaden your understanding and give you a unique edge in the field of politics.

  • Collaborative Projects: Politics isn’t just about theory – it’s about solving real-world issues. Through group projects, you’ll work alongside your peers to tackle political challenges, gaining experience in teamwork, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving.

  • Research Opportunities: UEA offers fantastic research facilities that will support you as you dive deeper into topics that interest you. Whether it’s through independent research or working closely with faculty members, you’ll have the resources you need to explore political ideas and theories in depth.

  • Access to Specialized Facilities: UEA’s campus is packed with resources to support your learning. From the UEA Library, which holds a wealth of political science materials, to the various study spaces available, you’ll have everything you need to excel in your studies.

  • Supportive Learning Environment: UEA offers a range of services to ensure you’re supported throughout your time there. From academic advising to career counseling and preparation for your year abroad, UEA has got your back, ensuring you get the most out of your university experience.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a BA (Hons) in Politics with a Year Abroad from UEA opens the door to a wide range of exciting career options. This program not only gives you a solid academic foundation but also equips you with invaluable international experience, making you stand out in today’s competitive job market. You’ll be ready to take on roles in government, international organizations, think tanks, NGOs, and beyond.

Typical career paths for graduates include:

  • Policy Analyst: Assessing and developing policies for governments, NGOs, or think tanks.

  • Diplomatic Service Officer: Representing your country abroad and working in international relations.

  • Political Consultant: Helping political campaigns with strategy, research, and communications.

  • International Development Specialist: Contributing to global development projects focused on sustainable change.

At UEA, you won’t just graduate with a degree – you’ll have the support and resources to turn your career aspirations into reality:

  • CareerCentral: Offers tailored advice, from CV workshops to mock interviews, to make sure you’re ready for the job market.

  • Global Opportunities Team: Helps you secure international placements, internships, and even job opportunities abroad, enhancing your global experience.

  • Alumni Network: Connect with UEA graduates who are already working in various fields and gain mentorship for your career journey.

UEA is committed to helping you succeed after graduation. In fact, 81% of UEA graduates secure professional roles or pursue further study within 15 months of graduating, which places UEA among the top universities in the UK for graduate outcomes.

UEA also boasts strong industry connections, which further boost your career prospects. For example, the Norwich Research Park offers collaborations with leading research institutes, providing opportunities for hands-on research and involvement in political and social sciences.

The program also comes with lasting value: UEA’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver Rating ensures that the education you receive is of the highest quality, making your degree even more valuable in the long run.


Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BA (Hons) Politics with a Year Abroad, you’ll have many options for further academic development:

  • Master’s Degrees: You could specialize in fields like International Relations, Public Policy, or Political Economy to deepen your expertise.

  • PhD Programs: If you’re passionate about research, you could pursue a PhD and contribute to advancing political science.

  • Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates: These are perfect for honing specific skills in areas like diplomacy, international law, or development studies.

UEA offers a variety of postgraduate programs that align with these pathways, ensuring you can continue your academic and professional development after your undergraduate studies.

Program Key Stats

£23,850
£ 29
Sept Intake : 25th Jan


79 %

Eligibility Criteria

BBB
3.3
31
70

NA
NA
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Political Analyst
  •  Public Affairs Consultant
  •  Policy Advisor
  •  Lobbyist
  •  Researcher for Political Think Tanks
  •  International Relations Specialist
  •  Government Relations Officer

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