Politics

Politics has been taught at Leicester since the 1940s, and the department has always been at the cutting edge of British political science, aiming to fire your intellectual curiosity about the politics of the world. As well as examining the workings of the political system in the UK and other states, you will explore some of the most important and interesting issues in contemporary politics: the dynamics of democracy and authoritarianism, the challenges of international order, the politics of inequality and identity, the workings of political parties and social movements, and the role of ideas and ideology in shaping political outcomes.

At the University of Leicester, this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year for those who would benefit from additional preparation, alongside a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placements that give you direct professional experience and an international dimension to your political studies. You will develop rigorous analytical skills in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and research methods, learning to engage with political questions at the level of argument and evidence that careers in politics, policy, and public life demand. Leicester's strong research reputation in political science provides a stimulating intellectual environment throughout.

With a typical entry tariff of 104 UCAS points, this is an accessible programme at a well-regarded research university. Graduates pursue careers in the civil service, politics and political organisations, journalism and broadcasting, international organisations, think tanks and policy research, the law, NGOs, human rights, public affairs, and the many analytical and communicative roles in public and private life where a rigorous understanding of political systems and processes is professionally valuable. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in politics, international relations, law, or public policy.