Philosophy and Politics (BA)

Studying Philosophy & Politics at Southampton is far more than reading theories and writing essays — it’s about applying ideas to real-world challenges and building the skills that employers value most. From your first semester, you’ll take part in lively debates, work on collaborative projects, present your arguments to peers, and develop your own research. The course is taught by experts actively shaping their fields, so what you learn in the classroom is always connected to current political events and philosophical discussions.

To make sure you graduate with both knowledge and experience, Southampton offers many ways to put your learning into practice:

• Study or work abroad – Choose to spend a year abroad at one of Southampton’s partner universities or take a year in industry. Both options help you develop global perspectives and valuable professional experience.

• Collaborative projects and debates – Many modules include group projects, structured debates, and oral presentations that sharpen your communication and teamwork skills — essential qualities for careers in law, policy, or public affairs.

• Independent research and dissertation – In your final year, you’ll dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about by conducting your own research project or dissertation, guided by leading academics.

• Research-active teaching and specialist centres – Learn from experts in the Political and Legal Philosophy Research Group, where topics like global justice, migration, and environmental ethics are actively explored.

• Outstanding libraries and learning spaces – Your studies are supported by the Hartley Library, with its rich archives and political collections, and the dedicated Avenue Campus, home to modern lecture theatres, seminar rooms, language resources, and six computer labs.

• Personalised feedback and skill development – Small-group seminars and tutorials mean you get regular feedback, helping you refine your analytical skills, improve your writing, and build confidence in presenting complex ideas.

This hands-on approach ensures you don’t just learn about politics and philosophy — you practise them. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the confidence to engage with complex debates, present persuasive arguments, and apply your skills to real-world challenges.

A degree in Philosophy & Politics from Southampton is more than just an academic qualification — it’s a launchpad into a wide range of exciting and impactful careers. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the critical thinking skills, analytical ability, and global awareness that employers in both the public and private sectors are actively looking for. Our graduates go on to roles such as policy analyst, public affairs adviser, journalist or political correspondent, and researcher in think tanks or NGOs, with many progressing quickly into leadership and strategic positions.

Southampton’s strong reputation and dedicated support services give you an edge in the job market:

• Personalised career support – Our Careers and Employability Service is with you from your first year through to three years after graduation, offering one-to-one coaching, help with applications, CV and interview workshops, and direct links to employers.

• Real-world experience – You’ll have the chance to take a Year in Employment or complete internships, gaining valuable workplace experience and building a professional network before you even graduate.

• Excellent graduate outcomes – Around 91% of philosophy graduates are employed or in further study within six months. Southampton graduates in politics earn around £28,000 within 15 months, rising to £30,000+ with experience.

• Industry and policy connections – Our Politics and International Relations department works closely with research centres and policy organisations like the Centre for Democratic Futures and the Behavioural Experimental Action & Research group, connecting you to real policy work and research projects.

• Long-term value – A Southampton degree is highly respected worldwide. Our philosophy programme is ranked among the UK’s top 10, giving your qualification lasting weight whether you’re applying for jobs or postgraduate study.

• Diverse career destinations – Alumni work across government, journalism, NGOs, publishing, consulting, education, and cultural organisations — proving how versatile this degree is in the real world.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re passionate about continuing your academic journey, this degree provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study. Many graduates go on to pursue a master’s degree in political theory, international relations, public policy, or philosophy. Others choose PhD research in areas such as global justice, political communication, or ethics. You can also specialise further with professional training in policy analysis, public affairs, or language teaching — all of which open doors to advanced roles in government, academia, and international organisations.