BA British Politics and Legislative Studies

Lucy Dunwell Politics

Undergraduate

BA British Politics and Legislative Studies

Gain an understanding of the British political system. Then experience it for yourself with a unique 12-month placement in Westminster.​

Key information

Study mode

Full-time

Course length

4 years

Typical offer

128 points

A Level grades: ABB

UCAS code

L230

Choose an option

Start date

Course overview

Gain a thorough understanding of the UK’s political system. Then apply it to the real world during a unique 12-month placement in Westminster working for a Member of Parliament or a peer, where you’ll get in-depth exposure to British parliamentary procedures and behaviours.

Studying at Hull opens doors to those considering a career in Parliament. Our graduates are well known throughout the major UK political parties.

In fact, so many of them now work in Westminster that they’ve become affectionately known as ‘the Hull Mafia’.

Learn more about your course in our subject sessions

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Politics

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Six reasons to study British Politics and Legislative Studies at Hull

  1. Spend a full year on a Westminster placement
  2. You'll work alongside an MP or peer
  3. Exclusive seminars by top parliamentary officials
  4. 92% graduate employability rating*
  5. Politics is in the top 20 in the UK for overall satisfaction†
  6. Join the 'Hull mafia' of our graduates in politics

What you'll study

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120.

First year modules

  • Compulsory

    British Political History since 1945

    The UK's political history after World War Two: from Eden to the EEC and from Wilson to the 'Winter of Discontent', encounter the people, ideas and policies that have shaped modern Britain.

    Introduction to the Politics of the World Economy

    Explore how politics defines the power map of the world's economy and provides the constitution for markets. 

    British Government

    In the age of Brexit, who governs Britain? Discover the institutions of the British state, from Downing Street to the devolved assemblies, and from the Conservatives to Labour.

    Introduction to Comparative Politics

    This module combines a thematic assessment of key features of modern states with a country-by-country study, allowing you to begin making comparisons.

    Philosophy, History and Ideology

    Learn how to analyse the structure of contemporary political ideologies and assess the historical interrelations between key philosophical concepts and their political implications.

    Contemporary Political Issues

    Develop your critical thinking and analytical skills by considering views, debates and policies on topics such as immigration, environment, UK political crises, domestic terrorism and human rights.

Second year modules

  • Compulsory

    The Contemporary House of Commons

    Study the functions of the House of Commons and how they are shaped by the changes in the political environment. Examine what MPs do - collectively and individually.

    Electoral and Voting Systems

    Stalin said: “It's not the people who vote that count. It's the people who count the votes.” Investigate into how far systems of voting determine election results around the world.

    Paths of Research

    Discover the research techniques and skills used in the study of politics. This module unpacks everything you'll need for conducting research in your own area of interest.

    Parliament in the UK: Approaches to Reform

    Study Parliament in the context of constitutional change. You'll explore electoral reform, pressure for a Bill of Rights, devolution, referendums and membership of the EU.

  • Optional

    Understanding China

    This module examines the economic transformations of China in a historical, cultural and political context. You'll evaluate the major issues and challenges facing the nation.

    Understanding States and Markets: An Introduction to Political Economy

    Discover the history of ideas in political economy, and their modern relevance. You’ll explore the work of Karl Marx, John Maynard Keynes, Friedrich Hayek and Joseph Stiglitz.

    History of Political Thought

    You'll learn about the thoughts and historical context of some of the world's most important philosophers and political theorists Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, and Marx (among others).

    Understanding the European Union

    Learn about the history and politics of the European Union. You'll consider its core policies, including the European Single Market, environmental policy and the implications of Brexit.

    Understanding America

    An introduction to the political culture and institutions of the USA. You'll consider America's international role and the relationship between its domestic and international policies.

Placement year modules

The third year is spent in Westminster working for a Member of Parliament or a peer.

You'll be fully supported throughout your internship – both in Westminster by former Hull placement students who now work there full-time, and by our dedicated member of staff in Hull who will be in regular contact.

While on placement, you’ll also complete the following modules.

  • Compulsory

    Research Proposal

    Research Paper

    Self-Evaluation Document

Final year modules

  • Compulsory

    Dissertation

    You will make an original contribution to research by designing, carrying out and writing up your own project on a topic you choose, supported by your dissertation supervisor.

    Comparative Legislatures

    Examine how legislatures fit within systems of government. You'll explore the Westminster model, US Congress, and the Brazilian, German, South African and Chinese parliaments.

  • Optional

    Conflicts in British Culture

    Who are the British? What do they believe in? Explore key cultural conficts, such as free speech, gay marriage, feminism, transgenderism, Brexit, multi-culturalism and abortion.

    BRICS: Emerging Powers in International Affairs

    Discover challenges facing the five emerging powers (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) in the shifting power structures of international affairs.

    Critics of Capitalism

    Study some of the most important critics of capitalist societies. You'll explore issues such as capitalist oppression, exploitation and the corruption of music and art.

    Politics of the Environment

    Analyse attitudes towards the environment and the politics of the environmental movement, pressure groups, political parties, states, the EU and international organisations.

    Dangerous Minds

    Study the relationship between ideas, the people who promote them, and political practice. From Plato, to Machiavelli, explore just how influential and dangerous ideas can be.

    UK Politics in an Age of Austerity and Brexit

    Examine contemporary debates on economic, social and political renewal. You'll cover topics such as: Brexit, austerity, foreign policy and the future of the welfare state.

    Contemporary Political Philosophy

    How should we think about justice, equality, liberty and democracy? Explore ways of addressing these topics through critical readings of leading political philosophers.

    Democracy and Legitimacy in the European Union

    This module focuses on the theoretical and empirical context in which democracy and legitimacy have become existential challenges for the European Union.

    Germany in the New Europe

    This module assesses the reunified Germany and its role in the new Europe. You'll learn about Germany's political parties, its government and its main policies.

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

How you'll study

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time’s divided among each of these varies each year and depends on the course and modules you study.

Overall workload

228 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

972 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

70%
30%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

216 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

984 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

42%
58%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

1,200 hours

Placement Placement hours typically include time spent on a work placement, studying abroad, or field trips.

Indicative assessment proportions

100%
  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Overall workload

204 hours

Scheduled study Scheduled hours typically include lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, and supervised laboratory and studio sessions.

996 hours

Independent study Independent study is the time outside your scheduled timetable, where you’ll be expected to study independently.

Indicative assessment proportions

34%
66%
  • Examination

    Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

  • Coursework

    Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.

Lucy Dunwell Politics houses of parliament
Lucy Dunwell Politics

Why I chose Politics at Hull

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Westminster placement

Work alongside an MP or peer in Westminster on a 12-month placement. Our links with a large pool of MPs mean we're likely to be able to match you with a politician whose role reflects your area of political interest.

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Exclusive seminar series

While on placement, You'll enjoy access to our exclusive seminar series presented by senior Parliamentary officials including Black Rod and the Speaker.

Entry requirements

Typical offer

  • A level grades ABB

  • BTEC grades DDM

  • Points required 128

Work out your estimated points

Points can be from any qualification on the UCAS tariff, but must include at least 80 points from 

  • A levels
  • BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • OCR Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma, Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • CACHE Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • Irish Leaving Certificate
  • Scottish Highers
  • Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
  • or a combination of appropriate Level 3 qualifications

Alternative qualifications 

  • IB Diploma: 32 points
  • Access to HE Diploma: pass with 45 credits at distinction

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview.

Worried you don’t quite meet our entry requirements?

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it’s not just about the grades – we’ll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

If you have any questions, our admissions team will be happy to help.

If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

This course requires academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by this University.

If your English currently does not reach the University's required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Our teaching staff

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A video presentation in the Allam Lecture Theatre. See more of the campus by taking our virtual tour.

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Fees and funding

UK

£9,250 per year*

EU/International

£14,800 per year

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme (including registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examination).

There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make. The list below has some examples, and any extra costs will vary.

  • Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the library, but you may want to buy your own copies
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (including travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (including travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PC’s on campus, but you may want to buy your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel and food – to name just a few. 

An affordable city for students

From bills, to meals, to pints – you’ll find that your money goes a lot further in Hull.

Your future prospects

  • Civil Service Fast Streamer
  • Policy officer
  • Politician's assistant
  • Public affairs consultant
  • Government social research officer

This course leads to a variety of careers, such as political consultancy, the media, the Civil Service, public relations, political parties, Parliament, charities, as well as international organisations.

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Ready to apply?

You can apply for this course through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

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This. Is. Hull.

A place where we stand up to kings, do deals with the world and take a wrecking ball to the slave trade. A place where culture stands out and the phone boxes are a different colour. A place where we're free-thinking, independent and proud of it.

*Percentage of students from this subject area in work or further study within six months of graduating: UK domicile full-time first degree leavers; Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey for the academic year 2016/17, published by HESA 2018

† National Student Survey (NSS) 2020, HEIs only