BA (Hons) Politics

Program Overview

Goldsmiths' BA (Hons) Politics program provides a comprehensive understanding of modern politics, equipping students with critical thinking, analytical, and research skills. It explores political theory, international relations, and comparative politics, fostering an understanding of diverse political practices worldwide. Graduates pursue careers in various fields, including government, finance, media, and research.

Program Outline

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Equip you with a thorough grounding in political theory, international relations, political economy, comparative politics, and the politics of non-Western countries.
• Enhance your critical and analytical skills to evaluate complex arguments and claims.
• Foster your research skills, allowing you to explore diverse topics and engage with cutting-edge political ideas.

Description:

This program goes beyond studying government structures. It examines how and why politics are practiced differently around the world, fostering critical thinking about your own assumptions and biases.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Compulsory modules: UK and European Comparative Governance and Politics, Political Theory and Ideologies, Identity, Agency & Environment 1 and 2.
• Optional modules: World Politics or Colonialism, Power, Resistance.

Year 2:

• Compulsory modules: Researching Politics, Modern Political Theory, Modern Britain, The Goldsmiths Elective.
• Optional modules (totaling 60 credits): Choose from a list approved annually, including potential courses on political economy, Chinese politics, US politics, and the politics of climate change.

Year 3:

• Write a research dissertation (30 credits).
• Choose 90 credits of optional modules from a department-approved list.

Work Placement module (optional):

Gain hands-on experience with various organizations in the NGO sector, international bodies, businesses, and political parties.

Assessment:

• Assessments vary by module and may include coursework, examinations, group work, and projects.

Teaching:

• Teaching primarily focuses on scheduled learning through lectures, seminars, and workshops.
• Independent study is expected, involving required and additional reading, discussion preparation, and essay/project work.

Careers:

• Graduates have pursued diverse careers in various fields, including:
• Administration and management
• Government (central and local)
• Finance
• Media
• Research and computing
• Voluntary agencies
• Health
• Education
• Housing management
• Probation service
• Company management

Other:

• The program attracts renowned speakers for events, allowing interaction with leading thinkers and engagement with current political discussions.
• Opportunities abroad are available, including Erasmus and study-abroad programs.

Annual tuition fees

These are the UG fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year. Home - full-time: £9250 Home - part-time: £4625 International - full-time: £19640 It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time if you require a Student Visa, however this is currently being reviewed and will be confirmed in the new year.