What do students actually study in a politics degree?
A politics degree examines how power, governments and societies work. Depending on the course, students may study political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, elections, political institutions and political history, alongside research methods. Assessment can involve essays, exams, presentations, policy briefs and data-based projects.
Key points
- You may analyse current affairs using concepts and evidence rather than simply discuss the news.
- Research methods can include evaluating sources, qualitative interviews, statistics and interpreting political data.
- Optional modules may connect politics with economics, law, sociology, philosophy, environmental issues or regional studies.
Things to check
- The balance of topics, compulsory modules and assessment methods varies by university, country and degree title, so check the official course structure.