Keele University

What you'll study

This honours degree covers core areas of political science alongside options that let you specialise. In the first year you build a foundation with modules in political theory, comparative politics, introduction to international relations, and basic research methods. Subsequent years deepen your knowledge through subjects such as public policy and administration, British and European government, global governance, conflict and security studies, political ideologies, and contemporary issues in development and human rights.

Research skills are emphasised throughout the programme. You typically take quantitative and qualitative methods modules and complete a substantial independent research project or dissertation in your final year. Keele also offers interdisciplinary and optional modules that can include political economy, environmental politics, digital governance and modern political thought, and there are opportunities to study a foreign language or take modules from related disciplines such as sociology, history or economics.

The degree can be taken as a three-year single-honours programme or extended to include a placement year or a year abroad, enabling practical work experience in government, NGOs, think tanks or international organisations, and deepening language and international understanding.

Entry requirements

Keele seeks applicants with a general qualification profile demonstrating academic ability and an interest in politics or related social sciences. Accepted qualifications include A-levels, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, the International Baccalaureate, T-levels, and recognised equivalent international or vocational qualifications. Admissions tutors also consider access to higher education diplomas and mature applicants with relevant experience.

Applicants are expected to have achieved passes in English and mathematics at GCSE level (or equivalent). While there is no compulsory A-level in politics, related subjects such as history, economics, languages, or sociology are useful preparation. Personal statements and references are used to assess motivation, written communication and any relevant extracurricular or voluntary experience.

Career prospects

• Public sector roles in local and national government, policy analysis and civil service careers
• Work with non-governmental organisations, charities and advocacy groups
• International careers in diplomacy, international organisations and development agencies
• Research and analysis roles in think tanks, political consultancies and polling organisations
• Media, communications, public affairs and campaigning roles
• Graduate entry to law, business, teaching or further study such as master’s degrees or PhDs

Why study at Keele University

Keele is known for its interdisciplinary teaching and a supportive student experience on a single-campus setting that brings academic, residential and social facilities together. The Politics programme is delivered by staff who combine teaching with active research in areas such as governance, political theory, conflict and international relations, giving students access to current debates and research-informed modules.

Keele’s emphasis on research skills and employability is reflected in options for a placement year and opportunities to engage with local government, NGOs and policy organisations. Small-group teaching, tutorials and frequent feedback are used alongside lectures to develop critical thinking and practical skills in analysis and communication. The campus environment, combined with subject links across social sciences and humanities, makes it straightforward to pursue joint honours combinations or tailored study pathways.

Students benefit from dedicated careers support, guest lectures from practitioners, and the chance to undertake a supervised final-year dissertation that can form the basis for further study or professional portfolios.