Politics BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how power works — from elections and public opinion to global conflicts and diplomacy — this degree is designed for you. The BA (Hons) Politics course helps you explore how societies are governed, why decisions are made, and how you can influence real political change both locally and globally.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year builds the foundation of political knowledge. Through modules such as Analysing Politics: Britain and Beyond and Key Themes in International Relations, you’ll explore how governments function, how political ideas shape society, and how the UK connects to the wider world. You’ll also develop critical thinking and academic writing skills through Critical Thinking and Professional Identity, preparing you to analyse complex issues with confidence.

Year 2
In your second year, you’ll begin applying theory to real-world challenges. Modules like Bending the Truth a Little? Research Methods in Politics, International Relations and Development teaches you how to design and carry out research — the same skills used by political analysts and journalists. You can also study key themes such as European Politics or Global Crises: Climate, Conflict and Insecurity, exploring issues that dominate today’s headlines.

Year 3
Your final year lets you focus on your interests and career goals. You’ll complete a dissertation or major project on a topic you care about — whether that’s global security, democracy, or social justice. Modules such as Post-Brexit Politics, Global Capitalism, or NGOs and Social Movements help you connect classroom learning to real-world developments and future career paths.

Focus Areas

Politics, international relations, public policy, governance, global issues, research, and analysis.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with a deep understanding of how political systems work, how to critically evaluate policies, and how to communicate ideas clearly. Along the way, you’ll gain research and analytical skills that are valuable for careers in government, diplomacy, journalism, and beyond.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program follows national academic standards for politics and international relations in the UK and is structured to develop skills that match careers in policy, research, governance, and the civil service.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Portsmouth holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognising outstanding teaching and student outcomes. Around 94% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, and politics graduates typically earn about £30,000 soon after completing their degree — a strong return on investment for a future in leadership and public affairs.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Portsmouth, studying Politics means stepping beyond lectures and into the real world of decision-making, debate, and public impact. The course is designed to give you hands-on experience in how political systems work, how campaigns are built, and how policy is influenced — so by the time you graduate, you’ll already have practical insight into the career paths ahead of you. From field trips and live projects to conferences and placements, you’ll learn by doing, not just observing.

Here’s what makes your learning experience truly engaging:

Field trips to the heart of power – Visit the Houses of Parliament and other political institutions to see government and democracy in action.
Simulated political conference – Present your own research and debate global issues in a professional, conference-style environment, gaining confidence in public speaking and analysis.
Run your own campaign – Design and deliver a political campaign on an issue you care about — learning how to plan, communicate, and influence public opinion effectively.
Optional paid placement year – Gain real-world experience with the Connected Degree model, which allows you to complete a placement or self-employed year at any stage of your degree — giving you flexibility to fit professional experience around your studies.
Guest talks and networking – Hear directly from MPs, political journalists, and international experts — including speakers from organisations like the U.S. Department of Defense — helping you build valuable professional connections.

Progression & Future Opportunities

A Politics degree from the University of Portsmouth is more than an academic qualification — it’s a launchpad into careers that shape societies, influence policies, and drive change. Graduates go on to work in government, media, NGOs, and international organisations in roles such as political researcher, policy analyst, communications officer, and public affairs consultant. You’ll leave with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills that employers value in the fast-moving world of politics and public service.

Here’s how Portsmouth helps you turn your degree into a successful career:

Career support for life – The university’s Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one career coaching, access to a Graduate Recruitment Consultancy with over 3,000 employer connections, and free guidance for up to five years after you graduate.
Strong graduate outcomes – Around 90% of Politics graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduating, with an average salary of £30,000.
Industry connections – Students have completed placements and projects with organisations such as the Ministry of Defence, House of Commons, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, gaining real-world experience that brings political theory to life.
Global recognition – The University of Portsmouth holds a Five-Star QS rating for employability and teaching, and is known for producing graduates who make an impact in public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Graduate success – Alumni have gone on to roles in government departments, international development agencies, political media, and research think tanks — using their Portsmouth experience to shape meaningful change.

Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, you can continue your journey with a Master’s in International Relations, Public Policy, or Global Security, or branch into specialised fields like sustainability, diplomacy, or law. The research and analytical skills you gain during your BA make you well-prepared for postgraduate study or professional training at top institutions.