Course Overview

The BA Politics will help you to understand and analyze major political issues that affect the lives of millions in the UK and beyond, such as populism, terrorism, austerity, and war. Politics can be understood as decisions about who gets what, when, and how, but complex issues are rarely the result of a single factor or process. This means you need access to the broad range of expertise which our Department of Politics offers. Our academics are specialists in a variety of geographical areas, including Britain, America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. On this politics degree, you will be taught by experts in the full range of sub-fields in political studies, including:

public policy

international political economy

peace and conflict

voting behavior

political theory. 

Our Department of Politics engages with politicians and policymakers who make crucial political decisions. You will have access to the Birkbeck Centre for British Political Life which brings together political practitioners, activists, and elected politicians to debate the big democratic questions about contemporary British politics. You can also choose to take a unique option module on Parliamentary Studies which is taught in conjunction with the House of Commons outreach service.

Graduates can pursue career paths in:

the local and national government

the diplomatic service

the voluntary sector

policy work

research

journalism.

We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.

General Eligibility

UCAS TARIFF POINTS

96-128 points (e.g. A-levels CCC-ABB)

The UCAS tariff score is applicable to you if you have recently studied a qualification that has a UCAS tariff equivalence. UCAS provides a tariff calculator for you to work out what your qualification is worth within the UCAS tariff.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.