Program Overview

Introduction to the Politics BA (Hons) Degree

The Politics BA (Hons) degree at Loughborough University is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of contemporary political issues and institutions. This four-year full-time program, which includes a placement year, or three-year full-time program, focuses on the key issues and ideas that drive policy and politics.

Program Structure

• The program progresses from a foundation in the key concepts of political practice and theory to an in-depth understanding of more specialized subjects such as British politics, gender, violence, social justice, and the environment.
• Students have the opportunity to study abroad or undertake a placement year, which can lead to the award of a Diploma in International Studies (DIntS) or a Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS), respectively.

Entry Requirements

• Typical A level offer: ABB
• Typical IB offer: 34 (6,5,5 HL)
• Typical BTEC offer: BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma: DDM
• GCSE: English Language grade 4/C
• Reduced contextual offer: Meeting specific eligibility criteria guarantees that if you are made an offer, it will be reduced by up to two grades.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

• UK fees: £9,535 per annum for full-time courses
• International fees: £24,700 per annum for full-time courses
• Placement year: Approximately 20% of the full-time fee

Career Opportunities

• Our focus on academic rigour and transferable skills has made our graduates attractive to employers from a range of industries and professions.
• Graduate destinations have included the British Army, Atos, Cabinet Office, Civil Service, HMRC, Department for Transport, Ernst and Young, and the Bank of England.

Additional Information

• The University Language Centre provides a range of modules in French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese from beginners' level upwards.
• Students can give their degree an international edge by taking credit-bearing language modules as part of their course.
• The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Assessment Methods

• A variety of assessment methods are used, including essays, exams, oral presentations, blog posts, vlogs, posters, policy reports, and group work.
• Students will also complete a dissertation on a subject of their choice, allowing them to develop the skills of a politics scholar and pursue their specific interests.

Research Areas

• The program covers a wide range of research areas, including international relations, politics, and history.
• Students can explore topics such as globalization, social difference, emerging threats in the 21st century, environmental thought, and the politics of terrorism.

Placement Year

• The placement year provides students with the opportunity to test drive a career and stand out to employers.
• Placement options are wide and varied, but would typically be a graduate-level role with one of a broad range of companies or organizations based in the UK or overseas.

Study Abroad

• Students have the opportunity to study abroad for a year, which can lead to the award of a Diploma in International Studies (DIntS).
• Studying abroad allows students to get ahead in the job market by gaining an international perspective and improving their ability to establish relations with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Facilities

• As a student on the Politics BA (Hons) degree, you will have access to a wide range of facilities across campus, including newly refurbished common rooms, study spaces, and a purpose-built computer lab.

Conclusion

The Politics BA (Hons) degree at Loughborough University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary political issues and institutions. With its strong focus on academic rigour, transferable skills, and career opportunities, this program is an excellent choice for students who wish to pursue a career in politics, international relations, or related fields.