Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The Politics programme combines core topics in political theory and institutions with optional specialist pathways in areas such as international relations, public policy, comparative politics, political economy and human rights. Across the programme you will study modules that typically include:

• Political Theory: classic and contemporary approaches to democracy, justice, rights and ideology.
• Comparative Politics: institutions and processes in different types of political systems, electoral politics and party systems.
• International Relations: diplomacy, security studies, global governance and international organisations.
• Public Policy and Administration: policy analysis, policymaking processes and the role of the state.
• Research Methods: qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis and research design for politics.
• Optional specialist modules: topics such as development and global justice, environmental politics, gender and politics, media and political communication, European politics and security studies.
• Final-year project or dissertation: an independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to develop specialist expertise and research skills.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, small-group tutorials and skills workshops. Assessment typically includes essays, exams, policy briefings, presentations, group work and the dissertation. The course often offers optional routes or opportunities for a year abroad or an industry placement, enabling practical experience in policy or international settings.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements are based on recognised qualifications and demonstrated academic potential. Typical offers for UK applicants are in the range expected by many single-honours social science degrees; equivalent international qualifications are also accepted. Applicants should normally have a good pass in English at GCSE level or equivalent.

Acceptable qualifications include A-levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate or other recognised school-leaving certificates. Oxford Brookes considers applications from mature students and those with work experience. International applicants are expected to meet English language requirements, commonly through recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent.

Selection also takes account of personal statement, academic references and any relevant work or voluntary experience. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate interest in politics through reading, civic engagement or relevant extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Politics degree pursue a wide range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. Common graduate destinations include:

• Policy and analysis roles in central and local government, public bodies and think-tanks.
• Civil service and diplomatic careers, including graduate entry schemes.
• Campaigning, advocacy and programme work for NGOs and charities.
• Media, journalism and communications roles covering political reporting, public affairs and press relations.
• Political consultancy, lobbying, and roles in political parties or elected offices.
• Further academic study and research, including postgraduate degrees in politics, international relations, public policy or law.

The degree develops transferable skills valued by employers — critical thinking, written and oral communication, data literacy and independent research — and many graduates combine these with placements, internships or voluntary work to build practical experience.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a politics degree taught in a university located in a city with a strong policy, academic and cultural environment. The programme emphasises applied learning and research-informed teaching, with opportunities to engage with practitioners, external organisations and visiting academics. Small-group teaching such as seminars and tutorials complements larger lectures, enabling close academic support and feedback.

The university supports student employability through a careers service, placement and internship advice, and opportunities for volunteering and extracurricular societies focused on politics and debate. The department encourages interdisciplinary study and provides access to research expertise across areas such as governance, international development, environment and social policy.

Students benefit from a diverse student community and facilities designed to support study and independent research, as well as the possibility of study-abroad or placement experiences to broaden practical and international perspectives.