Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Politics Program

The BSc (Hons) Politics program at the University of Surrey is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of politics and its role in shaping local, national, and international dynamics. This program focuses on the study of power, identity, conflict, and society, as well as the systems and organizations that govern the world.

Program Structure

The BSc (Hons) Politics program is offered in two formats: a standard three-year program and a four-year program that includes a Professional Training placement year. The program is divided into modules, each covering a specific aspect of politics.

Year 1 Modules

• Debates in British Politics: An introduction to British politics, exploring key institutions, recent challenges, and options for reform.
• Politics of Crisis: Investigating critical issues in domestic and international politics.
• Introduction to Politics: A foundational module introducing students to key concepts, questions, and debates in political science.
• Introduction to International Relations: Exploring key global events and their interrelationship with theoretical perspectives in International Relations.
• Introduction to Political Theory and Ideology: A broad introduction to the theoretical study of politics, covering key political thinkers and ideologies.

Year 2 Modules

• Approaches to Research: Building on research skills introduced in Year 1, investigating basic assumptions in social scientific research and reviewing methodologies.
• International Organisations: Examining the role of international organizations in the post-Cold War era, including their impact on state sovereignty and policy-making.
• International Political Economy: Understanding key theories of International Political Economy, such as Mercantilism, Liberalism, and Marxism.
• Making Public Policy: Theory and Practice: Introducing students to debates and methods in policy analysis, including traditional and contemporary approaches.
• Understanding Popular Culture: From Dickens to Disney: An interdisciplinary module exploring popular culture in the contemporary world.

Year 3 Modules

• US Foreign Policy in Transition: Situating the Trump presidency in the context of other executives to consider its impact on US foreign policy norms and strategy.
• Negotiating Politics and Policy: Covering the basic elements of negotiation and applying theoretical approaches through simulations and case studies.
• Populism and Democracy in Comparative Perspective: Introducing students to the concept of populism, its historical and current forces, and its relationship with democracy.
• Political Communication: Exploring the role of political communication in contemporary politics, including the media's influence on voters and politicians.
• Political Leadership: Understanding the role of leadership in politics, including theoretical perspectives and case studies.

Career Opportunities

The BSc (Hons) Politics program equips students with a wide range of transferable skills highly sought after by employers. Graduates have gone on to secure jobs in various sectors, including government, NGOs, media, and private companies. Recent graduates have secured roles such as Assistant Director, Policy Analyst, Press Officer, and Senior Executive Officer, working for employers like the Bank of England, Cabinet Office, and UK Government.

Fees and Funding

• UK Fees: To be confirmed for the 2026 entry.
• Overseas Fees: ｣22,900 for the 2026 entry.
• Professional Training Placement Year Fees: Approximately 20% of the full-time UK fees for the academic year in which the placement is undertaken.

Entry Requirements

• A-level: BSc (Hons) - ABB-BBB.
• BTEC (QCF Level 3) Extended Diploma: DDD-DDM.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 33-32.
• English Language Requirements: IELTS Academic - 6.5 overall with 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in each other element.

Placements and Study Abroad

The University of Surrey offers a Professional Training placement scheme, providing students with the opportunity to spend a year in industry, either in the UK or abroad. This experience can significantly enhance career prospects and personal development. Recent placement providers for Politics and International Relations include the Bank of England, Citizens Advice Bureau, and the House of Commons.

Conclusion

The BSc (Hons) Politics program at the University of Surrey is a comprehensive and engaging course that prepares students for a wide range of careers in politics, international relations, and related fields. With its strong focus on theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience, this program is ideal for students looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of politics.

University of Surrey

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Overview:

University of Surrey is a public research university located in Guildford, Surrey, England. It is known for its strong research culture and its commitment to providing a high-quality student experience. The university boasts a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Student Support:

Provides assistance with academic, personal, and financial matters.

Accommodation:

Offers a variety of on-campus housing options for students.

Library:

Provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources.

Employability and Careers:

Offers support and guidance to students in their job search.

International Students:

Provides specific support and resources for international students.

Fees and Funding:

Offers information and guidance on tuition fees and financial aid.

Study and Work Abroad:

Provides opportunities for students to study or work abroad.

CPD and Short Courses:

Offers a variety of professional development courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

University of Surrey provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can expect:

Active Student Life:

A wide range of clubs, societies, and activities to participate in.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.

Strong Community:

A welcoming and supportive community of students and staff.

Excellent Student Experience:

Ranked highly for student experience in national rankings.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-Class Research:

A strong research culture with a focus on innovation and impact.

Excellent Teaching:

High-quality teaching delivered by experienced and dedicated faculty.

Strong Employability:

A focus on developing students' employability skills.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus experience with a wide range of activities.

Global Community:

A diverse and international student body.

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Academic Programs:

University of Surrey offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various subject areas, including:

Engineering:

Civil Engineering, Computer Science, and more.

Science:

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and more.

Arts and Humanities:

English Literature, History, and more.

Business and Management:

Accounting, Finance, and more.

Health and Social Care:

Nursing, Psychology, and more.

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Other: