How much essay writing is there in a politics degree?
A politics degree can involve a substantial amount of essay writing, but the workload varies by university, course and module. Essays may range from short analytical pieces to longer research papers or a dissertation. Assessment can also include exams, presentations, policy briefs, class participation and other coursework.
Key points
- Essay topics may cover political theory, institutions, international relations, public policy or methods.
- Some modules may assess research skills, data analysis or practical policy work rather than relying mainly on essays.
- A final-year dissertation or independent research project may involve extended academic writing.
Things to check
- Check the specific course and module descriptions, since assessment formats and the number or length of essays differ between programmes and academic years.