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
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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
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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.
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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.
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Compulsory
Research Proposal
Research Paper
Self-Evaluation Document
Final year modules
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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.
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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.