Discover how political ideas and initiatives shape societies as you immerse yourself in political analysis, expand your sociological imagination, and relate social and cultural themes to real-world political events.
This joint honours degree combines the interrelated disciplines of politics and sociology. It will equip you with an in-depth understanding of the political and social landscape, including the social forces that create and sustain political institutions. If you are curious about how decisions are made and communicated, or have thought about a career writing laws, running a community organisation, or working in the Civil Service or Parliament, then our Politics and Sociology degree is for you. You will gain a real-life understanding of the world of politics, looking at current practice in the UK, while also focusing on developments and changes around the world. This is balanced with the analysis of social trends and the study of sociological developments in political, cultural and historical contexts. The course provides a unique insight into policy making in practice, enabling you to explore the nature and impact of social challenges alongside the opportunities and constraints of associated political decisions and policies. You will graduate with a set of key transferable skills including the ability to conduct research, craft a message to communicate a particular point of view and analyse and understand complex information.
In Year 1 of the Politics and Sociology course, you will explore the foundations of political analysis and immerse yourself in political systems and institutions, while also gaining an overview of international relations. You will critically examine the core ideas central to the study of politics and develop an understanding of how politics works in practice. Receiving a grounding in sociological theory, you will be immersed in the study of power through political sociology and engage in an introduction to cultural studies. There is also the opportunity to participate in a number of educational and cultural activities as part of an optional three-day, two-night field trip to London.
Introduction to Cultural Studies provides a foundation for the study of culture in society, with a focus on different – and particularly critical – approaches to the study of the cultural world. The module rehearses relevant cultural theories from traditional conceptions of ‘high’ culture and the importance of culture in society, to critical approaches to culture that take in analyses of power, representation, ideology and hegemony. The module will explore cultural theories and their analyses of popular culture in the last 75 years before applying theoretical insights to the study of cultural forms and movements in Britain since the 1950s. The study of cultural forms will allow for both an appreciation of the tools of cultural analysis and of the richness of cultural practices and representations.
Module code: SPY1112
Credits: 20
Introduction to International Relations
Introduction to International Relations recognises that it is difficult to understand politics today without having an understanding of how states relate to each other. The module explores the relationships of states to each other and to international and supranational institutions. The global trends and pressures which impact on and influence politics and policy making will also be considered, as well as the role of non state actors, such as non-governmental organisations.
Module code: POL1003
Credits: 20
Introduction to Political Concepts and Theory
Introduction to Political Concepts and Theory explores the foundations of political analysis and the concepts, approaches and methods through which we understand the subject. The module will critically examine the core ideas central to the study of politics.
Module code: POL1001
Credits: 20
Introduction to Political Systems and Institutions
Introduction to Political Systems and Institutions immerses you in political institutions and systems, focusing mainly on the UK but also using examples from the US. The module is designed to give you an introduction to, and understanding of, how politics works in practice in terms of institutions, systems, personnel and campaigns. Focusing mainly on the UK, teaching will also draw on some examples from the US.
Module code: POL1002
Credits: 20
Political Sociology
Political Sociology immerses you in the study of power, the state, ideology, authority and domination. You will study the roles, functions and participation of institutions, organisations and groups in the political world, gaining a conceptual model of the way in which the political world operates and engages with powerful interests and demands for democratic participation. A series of lectures will provide a foundation of knowledge and you will then follow particular case studies to exercise that knowledge in depth. These case studies will be drawn from the research specialisms of staff and topical issues. Indicatively, case studies might be security and state surveillance of political participation in Britain, the political management of mass public protest, the political strategies of social movements, the relevance of political parties to contemporary politics, political marketing and media politics.
Module code: SPY1110
Credits: 20
Thinking Sociologically: Sociological Theory and Applications
Thinking Sociologically: Sociological Theory and Applications introduces you to using the ‘sociological imagination’ to explore a range of sociological concepts and approaches. You will develop the ability to reason effectively about the relation of human agency and social structure, and reflect on the challenges, choices and constraints underlying the assumptions and tacit expectations that determine our view of the world. The module analyses how we create and sustain meaningful social relationships, organisations and systems, and how, in turn, those relations, organisations and systems impact on us.
Module code: SPY1111
Credits: 20
Year 2 of the course focuses on European politics and compares the governments and politics of France, Germany, Poland, Greece and Italy. You will conduct an in-depth exploration of the policymaking process and choose to explore topics including voting and election systems, US politics, or the politics of migration. The broad theoretical knowledge you have gained in sociology will be applied to a range of contexts, with the opportunity to study armed conflicts and political violence, cultural understandings of the globalised world, and class, culture and conflict in contemporary British society. There is an emphasis on the development of skills that will enhance employability and immerse you in local community activism, with the additional opportunity to undertake archival work and engage with specialist speakers and organisations on an optional field trip to Amsterdam.
Broken Britain explores issues around class, culture and conflict in contemporary British society. The module will provide a sociological and political analysis of current debates about the state of British society and whether aspects of it can be considered to be broken or not. You will examine a range of different social and political issues to engage critically with the following kinds of questions: Is British politics broken? Was austerity necessary? What does it mean to be British? Is racism endemic in Britain? Is class still relevant in Britain? Does work pay for the poor in Britain? How broken is Britain?
Module code: SPY2135
Credits: 20
Comparative European Politics
Comparative European Politics examines the government and politics of France, Germany, Italy, Greece and Poland on a comparative basis. The module will explore in a systematic manner through the application of a number of theoretical models the nature of the systems of government and politics in the three states.
Module code: POL2001
Credits: 20
Policy Making and Researching Politics
Policy Making considers the complexities of making policy in the modern public sector. Public policy makers do not operate in a vacuum and their policy-making autonomy is bounded by a number of considerations including knowledge, law, power, resources and public opinion. The module seeks to demystify policy-making by systematically introducing you to the key policy-making stages, theories, methods and key debates, locating them in practical real-world contexts. Policy is of course often justified by reference to research. The module will therefore also focus on key research methods, enabling you to understand the research needs of policy makers as well as to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to conduct some of your own research.
Module code: POL2002
Credits: 20
States, Conflict and Political Violence
States, Conflict and Political Violence recognises that the sociological study of armed conflict and political violence is an important and growing field of inquiry. Wars and conflicts within and between states are key problems facing the contemporary global community, rooted in the complex character of modern societies. They have been a central concern for sociological theorists since the founding of the discipline. The study of armed conflict therefore does more than allow you to become familiar with the particular dynamics of specific wars. It also enables a series of key concepts, theories and issues in the social sciences (of power and authority, gender, ethnicity and class) to be investigated and applied to real world situations through the prism of organised violence by, between, against and beyond the state today.
Contemporary US Politics looks at politics in the US today and in the recent past. It focuses on major trends and key developments while exploring in some detail the key institutions relevant to US politics. Focusing on the US politics from the Reagan presidency onwards, the aim is to equip you with an understanding of one of the major ‘theatres of politics’. You will explore key aspects of recent presidencies, the development of the role of Vice President, the US candidate selection system, the funding of political campaigns, the operation of Congress and State Houses, legislative processes, trends in party management and development, as well as any emerging news stories.
Module code: POL2005
Credits: 20
Elections and Voting Systems
Elections and Voting Systems looks at elections and voting systems across a range of countries. Anyone wanting to work in a political environment needs an understanding of how elections work and the significance of any changes. It was, for example, a system change in the Labour Party, as part of the Collins Review in 2014, that made it possible for Jeremy Corbyn to be elected. The module analyses the importance of each system and focuses on the many pressures for change in terms of who votes and when. The countries will be chosen in a way which provides a good range of systems and makes use of current events.
Module code: POL2006
Credits: 20
Political Ideologies
Political Ideologies explores the principle ideas, significance and impact of the major political ideologies in contemporary political life. The module first considers the nature of political ideology and then proceeds to examine and critique each system of ideas and consider the context that shaped their birth, development and evolution. You will also examine the ways in which political ideologies influence or determine political choices in contemporary societies.
Module code: POL2003
Credits: 20
Preparing for Work in Politics
Preparing for Work in Politics looks at the various activities which make up the world of work (both paid and unpaid) in politics. It will enable you to begin thinking about your potential place in this vast area. Focus will be placed on current examples of particular pieces of political work, for example party management, internal reform, selection campaigns, conference organisation, and motion and policy writing. You will also examine a variety of roles, from elected representatives to MPs’ assistants, think tank researchers, civil service staff, political bloggers, party activists and campaigners. The aim is to help you better understand a variety of areas of politics and identify those in which you have an interest and may wish to explore further.
Module code: POL2007
Credits: 20
The Politics of Migration
The Politics of Migration acknowledges that migration is one of the key paradigms of the 21st century. To understand many of the trends and events in the world today, it is necessary to understand what migration is, how it is represented and ‘managed’, and how it is experienced, whether directly or indirectly. The module will introduce you to a range of theoretical traditions of migration, as well as a variety of case studies from both the UK and overseas, to enable you to understand and analyse a phenomenon that is highly relevant in contemporary politics.
Module code: POL2004
Credits: 20
Language 1
Language 1 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Cultural Analysis in a Global World considers how we understand, make sense of and act upon cultural understandings of the globalised world. We are increasingly aware of the interconnectedness of the local, national and global, through cultural and representational forms, commodities and discourses. How do we make sense of them? How do we gain a sense of what is global, what is local, and how do we make comparative and critical examinations of past and present, and begin to speculate on future, on the basis of distinct and contrasting cultural analyses? This module will look at how both media and representational practices make meanings, generate understandings and act upon them in contemporary societies, with a particular focus on recognising the importance of post-colonial cultural critiques and critical discourse analysis as a means of looking below the surface of our globalised world.
Module code: SPY2138
Credits: 20
Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed Learning enables you to focus on a particular agreed topic or focus and explore it, with tutorial support, to produce a project-based piece of work which relates to a particular career trajectory. The project will involve addressing a social issue or problem and/or one organisation’s response (voluntary, public or private sector) to a social issue or problem. It will involve not only desk research such as library searches but information retrieval from a range of primary sources. The self-directed learning focus allows for a sense of both leading on the learning taking place and reflecting on its progress, problems and problem-solving.
Module code: SPY2139
Credits: 20
Work-based Learning and Employability 1
Work-based learning and Employability 1 is designed to bridge the world of higher education with the world of work. You will develop a critical understanding of the changing context of work and of social, economic and political factors shaping the labour market and contemporary patterns of employment. There will be an opportunity to apply theory and disciplinary specialist knowledge to practical experience within a work-based setting with students undertaking a 60 hour placement. You will also enhance and develop a range of transferable skills to enhance your employability.
Module code: SPY2127
Credits: 20
Language 1
Language 1 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC1010
Credits: 20
Please note, if you wish to learn a language as integrated study in Year 2 of this degree, you can choose the Language 1 module instead of either a Politics or Sociology optional module. This means you would study one Politics option and the language module, or one Sociology option and the language module.
In Year 3 of the Politics and Sociology degree you will study political communication and have the opportunity to undertake a work placement in a political or politically-related field, produce some independent research, and focus on topics such as advanced parliamentary studies, political activism and the role of think tanks. Contemporary sociological themes, reflecting on varied subjects from terrorism to sexual desires, bring further depth and specialism to your knowledge and skills, with the research-led curriculum reflecting the cutting edge specialisms of the programme team. There is also the chance to bring an enhanced international dimension to your studies with an optional field trip to a European city to explore its history, culture, politics and social organisations.
Politics Dissertation gives you the chance to develop your interest in, and knowledge of, politics by completing a short dissertation. The module will enable you to demonstrate to prospective employers that you can produce a coherent and sophisticated argument drawing on appropriate sources and using correct writing conventions, perform well as an independent learner while making good use of supervision and advice, and effectively plan and project manage your work from idea to completion.
Module code: POL3005
Credits: 20
Sociology of the Body and the Emotions
Sociology of the Body and the Emotions introduces you to different ways of understanding ‘the body’ and its significance in past and contemporary societies. Relevant classical social theorists, such as Bourdieu, Elias, Le Breton, Foucault, Mauss and Goffman, will be covered, as will more contemporary sociologists such as Turner, Shilling, Fraser, Butler, Burkitt and Williams. The social production of bodies, how the body is deployed socially and culturally, the socially constructed dualism between body and mind, and the relationship between power and the body, are key issues for evaluation and analysis. They will be illustrated through a range of substantive topics such as gendered, classed and racialised bodies, the body, health and illness, body modification, biotechnology, and social and digital media and the body.
Module code: SPY3130
Credits: 20
Strategic Political Communications
Strategic Political Communications looks in depth at political communication and how it is used by various players in the political arena. It is impossible to understand modern day politics without understanding how politicians and campaign groups communicate. This module builds on your understanding of political systems and practices and analyses pieces of communication in a critical way.
A Is For Activism equips you with knowledge of global politics and in particular the role that mediated activism has to play in it. After defining activism and exploring both public and digital public spheres, the module will critically evaluate the successes and failures of new, online forms of activism and assess their role in transforming political structures and systems. You will discover how to communicate information and concepts effectively, develop reasoned and informed critiques, and source and explain arguments emanating from primary and secondary sources.
Module code: POL3007
Credits: 20
Advanced Parliamentary Studies
Advanced Parliamentary Studies equips you with a thorough and deep understanding of the workings of the UK Parliament and Parliamentary systems. The module explores the history, culture and potential future of Parliament, examines aspects of Parliamentary process in-depth, and considers related issues such as regulation and ethics. You will have the opportunity to interact with practitioners from the workforce in the Houses of Parliament.
Module code: POL3006
Credits: 20
Guns and Government: The Politics of Northern Ireland
Guns and Government: The Politics of Northern Ireland addresses the profound transformations in Northern Ireland society and politics in the period from 1990 to 2018 which saw the end of the Troubles, the development of the Peace Process and the establishment of the devolved Stormont Assembly as well as its recent history of collapse and democratic impasse. You will develop an in-depth knowledge of British, Irish and Northern Irish history and politics and critically evaluate the international, national and local political and social factors underpinning the Northern Irish public sphere and democracy.
Module code: POL3008
Credits: 20
Politics Work Placement
Politics Work Placement gives you the opportunity to identify, apply for and take part in a work placement in a political or politically related field. The process is supported by politics tutors and a dedicated work placement team. You will also attend preparation and reflection sessions which will focus on themes such as job searches, time management and workplace disciplines, and the specific needs of particular employers.
Module code: POL3004
Credits: 20
The Think Tank
The Think Tank looks at the role that think tanks play in politics and influencing policy-making and change. The tasks carried out by think tanks are relevant across a wide range of political, media and other practice. This module provides you with an in-depth understanding of the work of think tanks, as well as practical experience in carrying out that work and producing a product. You will take a policy area, research it in depth, produce policy ideas, identify outlets for pursing those ideas, and produce a product online.
Module code: POL3010
Credits: 20
Language 2
Language 2 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Arts in Society focuses upon the way that a range of feminist and community-based artists work with specific communities and the general public in order to address social issues. The module enables you to explore and develop notions of social justice and community engagement through innovative and creative means. In its examination of the ways in which the arts can ameliorate social conditions, it raises philosophical, ethical and practical issues. You will have the opportunity to learn about a range of artists and practices and the resonance these have with the social issues that are meaningful to them and their study. You will be encouraged to think creatively and reflectively and be expected to engage with works of art as well as with critical literature.
Module code: SPY3109
Credits: 20
Childhood and Sexuality
Childhood and Sexuality juxtaposes how children and young people are constructed simultaneously as desexualised or pre-sexual beings and, therefore, in need of protection and, at the same time, young people, in particular, are portrayed as sexually ‘promiscuous’ or engaged in sexual ‘risk taking behaviour’. The module introduces you to the tensions between these contradictory constructions of youth sexuality and explores the ways in which young people understand their sexuality and develop their sexual identity.
Module code: SPY3118
Credits: 20
Critical Terrorism Studies
Critical Terrorism Studies recognises that in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, and those in London, Madrid, Paris and beyond, terrorism and political violence have become ever more pressing contemporary issues. But, what is ‘terrorism’, what does the term itself actually mean? What causes political violence, how is it represented in modern multi-mediated societies and how does the issue of ‘counter terrorism’ impact on the lives of people today? How has the ‘fear’ of terrorism come to affect our society? These are the sort of questions this module is designed to address. You will be invited to employ and develop your understanding of critical sociological theories, concepts and approaches in order to investigate these matters of great contemporary social importance.
Module code: SPY3110
Credits: 20
Self-Directed Study
Self-Directed Study enables you to look in depth at a theme or issue covered over the duration of your programme of study. The module involves identifying a chosen area for study, developing and negotiating a learning contract (which will outline the what, how, when, where and why of the study period), as well as the means of assessment to showcase the acquired learning. You will be assigned a module supervisor who will help you to develop the negotiated learning and agree the nature of the assessment.
Module code: SPY3101
Credits: 20
Social, Cultural and Political Ideas
Social, Cultural and Political Ideas enables you to undertake focused work on trans-disciplinary theoretical studies that combine social, political and cultural dimensions in order to understand issues and problems in the contemporary world. The module provides a discursive base on the relationship of theory to practice and the critical study of ideas before focusing on three particular issues and/or theoretical positions and perspectives. Topics might include democracy and democratisation, neo-liberalism, models of justice, consumerism, governance and globalism, cultural Marxism, Orientalism, post-colonialism, or post-Marxism. The balance of generality with specific focus allows for a detailed and critical approach to social, political and cultural ideas.
Module code: SPY3111
Credits: 20
Socio-Cultural Issues and Questions
Socio-Cultural Issues and Questions provides you with the opportunity to intensively study a particular society and culture through some of its contemporary issues. The module allows for the comparative cultural analysis of a different society to the one you live in, focused around some preparatory lectures and reflective sessions and an intensive study trip to that country. The focus of the study trip will be to explore both comparisons and contrasts, and use the experience of difference to explore social and cultural issues and problems.
Module code: SPY3125
Credits: 20
Language 2
Language 2 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC2000
Credits: 20
Please note, if you wish to learn a language as integrated study in Year 3 of this degree, you can choose the Language 2 module instead of either a Politics or Sociology optional module. This means you would study one Politics option and one Sociology option and the language module, or two Sociology options and the language module.
Optional modules provide an element of choice within the course curriculum. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by timetabling requirements. Some restrictions on optional module choice or combinations of optional modules may apply.
How you'll study
The course includes a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars and practical workshops. There will also be opportunities to participate in field trips, for example to the Scottish Parliament.
Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.
How you'll be assessed
Politics modules will be assessed through a combination of essays, reports, debates, presentations and practical work.
Sociology modules will be assessed using a variety of methods including essays, case studies, portfolios, oral presentations, e-log books, completion of directed tasks, class tests and examinations.
Who will be teaching you
The programme is taught by academic experts and active practitioners in politics and sociology. The current research interests and specialisms of the programme team include political history, political communication, the politics of migration and voting and electoral systems, as well as issues of conflict identity and childhood.
The programme team present papers at international academic conferences, publish books and journal articles, and actively participate in debates and interviews in the media. The course also makes use of visiting speakers such as politicians and those working in politics who can offer additional, insightful first-hand perspectives.
Entry criteria
Entry requirements
Typical offer 112-120 UCAS Tariff points. No specific subjects are required.
Example offers
Qualification
Requirement
A Level
BBC-BBB.
BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications)
Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM).
T Level
Overall grade of Merit.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.
Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.
If you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.
English language requirements
International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.
If your current level of English is half a band, one band, or one-and-a-half bands lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.
Please see our international student pages for further information about how to apply as a prospective international student.
Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.
Did you know?
If you join a full time undergraduate degree at Edge Hill University, we will guarantee you the
offer of a room in our halls of residence for the first year of your course.
The £6million Law and Psychology building provides contemporary teaching and learning facilities for students in the School of Law, Criminology and Policing and the Department of Psychology.
The three-storey building includes a 250-seat lecture theatre, seminar and tutorial rooms, and social learning areas which encourage a more informal and interactive style of learning.
Sociology modules are led by the Department of History, Geography and Social Sciences, based in the Geosciences building. The modern facilities combine with a friendly and supportive learning environment to ensure that your studies are a rich and rewarding experience.
The Geosciences building features a large lecture theatre, small group teaching rooms, IT facilities, smaller tutorial spaces and a large social area.
The UK tuition fee rate is subject to final Government approval for academic year 2023/24 entry. The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as Irish nationals, may be eligible for the UK tuition fee rate.
Financial support
Subject to eligibility, UK students joining this course can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students enrolling on the course may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.
Please view the relevant Money Matters guide for comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK students.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may be eligible to apply for financial support. Irish nationals can ordinarily apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI).
If you are an EU student who does not have settled or pre-settled status, or are an international student from a non-EU country, please see our international student finance pages.
Your future career
Graduating with this Politics and Sociology dual-honours degree provides you with a huge range of career options in both politics, sociology spheres and beyond.
Typical careers for politics graduates include working as a parliamentary researcher or caseworker, local government officer or think tank researcher. Many politics graduates also pursue careers working in journalism, public relations, public affairs, the Civil Service, voluntary sector or teaching (further training required).
Sociology graduates find employment across a range of private, public and voluntary employment markets and careers, in sectors as diverse as social and health services, general administration and management, media and entertainment industries and the retail and leisure industries.
Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto postgraduate study.
Course changes
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, however our courses are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.
Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of professional bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Track changes to this course
Change of Department (Sociology modules) - 25 July 2022
With effect from 1 August 2022, the Department of Social Sciences will become the Department of History, Geography and Social Sciences. The new department will be based in the Geosciences building.
The £6million Law and Psychology building provides contemporary teaching and learning facilities for students in the School of Law, Criminology and Policing and the Department of Psychology.
