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.
Knowing Now: Applied Philosophy in a Contemporary World
Discover a range of concepts, perspectives and skills, examining topics like knowledge, truth and belief, ethics and moral philosophy – and their relevance and application in modern life.
Introduction to Economics
This introduction covers both microeconomics (the affairs of individual consumers, firms and government) and macroeconomics (the study of the economy as a whole).
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.
World Economy
Study the changing world economy, developing insights into issues related to international trade, international finance, regional groupings and climate change.
Quantitative Methods for Economists
This module will equip you with the mathematical and statistical tools you will require later in your degree.
Second year modules
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Compulsory
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).
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.
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.
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.
Macroeconomics: Managing the Economy
You’ll learn the ways that government policy affects the course of the economy through its influence on the rate of inflation, economic growth, and the level of employment.
Thinking Ethics
Examine the nature of ethical thinking and how different perspectives, beliefs and cultures shape and determine what is considered to be morally right and wrong in contemporary life.
Final year modules
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Compulsory
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.
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Choose one
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.
One-Trimester Internship
Apply knowledge learned on your degree in a real working environment on one of our unique internship opportunities - enhance your chance of getting a job at the same time.
One Trimester Abroad
An opportunity to study for a semester abroad at any of our partner institutions. Select a number of modules on offer from the host institution to count towards your degree.
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Choose one
Short Dissertation
This module enables you to undertake independent research on a question of your choice. Working with an academic across your final semester, you'll write a 6,000-word dissertation.
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.
Leadership Project
Work with a local employer or business to apply academic theory to a real world issue and write and present (live or by video recording) a report on this issue with the support of your academic project supervisor.
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Optional
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.
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.
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.
Health Economics and Health Policy
Explore the challenges associated with health care systems, methods of economic evaluation, setting priorities using health economics and how policy makers influence healthcare practices and behaviours.
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.
International Business Economics: Relationships Between Nations
You’ll explore international trade patterns, the business gains accruing from trade, and the international economic interdependence of countries.
Global Financial Crises: Past and Future
Learn about past financial crises that have occurred around the world and the optimal policies to prevent or mitigate the impact of future financial crises on the economy.
Economic and Social Inequality in the 21st Century
You’ll learn about the causes and impact of inequality including how it shapes the economy and modern society. You’ll explore the role of public policy in reducing or exacerbating inequality.
All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.