Politics BA (Hons) sandwich with foundation year and work placement

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how decisions shape the world — from government policies and elections to global challenges like climate change and healthcare — this Politics degree at Portsmouth is a great fit. It’s designed for students who enjoy debating ideas, exploring current affairs, and want to turn that passion into a career that makes a real impact.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year
You’ll start by building your confidence and academic skills through modules such as Introduction to Politics and International Relations, ICT Skills, and Interactive Learning Skills and Communication. This year sets you up with the research, writing, and critical thinking tools you’ll need for university success.

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll dive into how politics really works in the UK and around the world. Modules like Analysing Politics: Britain and Beyond, Global Development, and Key Themes in International Relations introduce you to political systems, ideologies, and global power dynamics — helping you understand how ideas and decisions influence everyday life.

Year 2
The second year lets you go deeper into contemporary political issues. You’ll study Research Methods in Politics, International Relations and Development and choose from modules such as European Politics, US Politics, or Global Political Economy. You’ll start developing your own research projects and gain a more critical, independent approach to global events and policymaking.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll bring everything together in a major dissertation or project — exploring a political question you’re passionate about. Modules such as Post-Brexit Politics and Global Crises and Responses allow you to apply your learning to real-world challenges, while honing advanced research and communication skills that employers value.

Optional Placement Year
You can choose to spend a year working in the UK or studying abroad. This hands-on experience strengthens your CV and gives you insight into the political, public, or NGO sectors before you graduate.

Focus Areas

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate with the ability to:
• Analyse complex political systems and current affairs critically
• Conduct independent research and communicate ideas clearly
• Develop persuasive arguments supported by evidence
• Apply political knowledge to policy, media, or community work

Professional Alignment

While the degree isn’t tied to a specific accrediting body, it’s highly practical — linking academic study with real-world application. The optional placement year, careers service support, and professional guest speakers help prepare you for roles in government, policy, journalism, research, or the NGO sector.

Reputation

The University of Portsmouth is ranked among the Top 30 UK universities for student satisfaction (THE 2024). In the latest National Student Survey, 100% of students praised teaching quality for being clear and engaging — reflecting the university’s strong support for political and social sciences.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Portsmouth, learning about politics goes beyond lectures — you’ll step into the real world of government, policy, and debate. From interactive simulations and research projects to field visits and guest talks, the course is built to help you experience how political ideas shape society. You’ll learn to analyse issues, communicate effectively, and see how policies come to life through real examples and professional connections.

Here’s what makes the experience truly hands-on:

Parliament Visit – Take part in field trips to the Houses of Parliament in London to witness live debates and see how British democracy operates.
Guest Speaker Events – Meet Members of Parliament, journalists, and political analysts through the university’s Politics Society and guest lecture series.
Research & Simulation Projects – Present your findings at mock academic conferences, simulate political negotiations, and learn to make evidence-based arguments.
Centre for European and International Studies Research (CEISR) – Work alongside staff whose research influences public policy in areas like global governance, security, and development.
Optional Placement Year – Gain professional experience through a paid or voluntary placement in government, non-profits, or international organisations — or choose to study abroad for a year.
Study Facilities – Access modern seminar rooms, digital research databases, and one of the best-equipped university libraries on the south coast, open 24/7 during term time.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Politics degree from Portsmouth sets you up for an exciting range of careers in government, policy, research, and communication. You’ll leave with the ability to analyse information critically, influence decisions, and communicate confidently — skills that employers across the public and private sectors value highly. Many Portsmouth graduates now work in roles such as:

Political Researcher (for MPs, think tanks, or research firms)
Policy Advisor or Civil Servant (in government departments or local councils)
Public Affairs or Communications Officer (in NGOs, charities, or corporate sectors)
Journalist or Social Researcher (in media or research organisations)

Here’s how the University supports you every step of the way:

Careers and Employability Service – Offers one-on-one career guidance, mock interviews, and help finding work placements and graduate roles. You’ll also have access to exclusive job portals for Portsmouth students.
Impressive Employment Record – Around 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, earning an average starting salary of about £30,000.
Professional Connections – The course includes an optional placement year, with previous students gaining experience at the House of Commons, Ministry of Defence, and National Museum of the Royal Navy.
Transferable Skills for Life – The analytical, communication, and leadership skills you’ll develop are valued in sectors as diverse as public administration, business, media, and education.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can continue your academic journey with a Master’s in International Relations, Public Policy, Global Governance, or even a PhD in Political Science. The strong research training you gain through your dissertation gives you a solid foundation for postgraduate success.