Brunel University – BSc Politics

BSc Politics

Politics is a broad-based degree which provides an excellent foundation in the various aspects of the study of politics. It offers a grounding in the different approaches and theories, as well as a range of options that focus on European, American and international politics, and political change.

Course Content

Semester 1

• Political Science Methods
• Central Themes in Political Thought
• Modern British Politics
• Introduction to World Politics
• Introduction to American Politics
• Optional Module:
  • Capital, Labour and Power: Britain 1707-1939
  • History, Memory and Culture in Europe since 1789

Semester 2

• Democracy and Democratisation
• Comparative Political Institutions
• Optional Module:
  • US Foreign Policy from World War 2 to the end of the Cold War
  • Issues in American Politics
  • Political Geography
  • Theories of International Relations
  • The State and Revolution
  • The History of Political Cinema

Semester 3

• European Union Politics: Problems and Prospects
• Dissertation
• Optional Module:
  • Psychogeography
  • The Arab-Israeli Conflict
  • Monstrosity in Political Thought and Literature, 1500-1900
  • Globalisation and Governance
  • Empire, Imperialism and Hegemony
  • Media, Politics and Power in America
  • Marx and Marxism
  • Parties and Voters in the UK
  • Intelligence and National Security
  • Public Policy Analysis
  • Parliamentary Studies
  • Fascism
  • The History and Politics of Heritage
  • Crisis and Critique

I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy.

John Adams

Career Pathway

Brunel’s students pursue a wide variety of jobs after graduating. Some Brunel graduates such as John McDonnell MP, or former Labour party general secretary Baroness McDonagh, opt for careers in politics. Others have joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Home Office, GCHQ and military intelligence.

Many have gone on to work in public and private sector organisations, such as Chase Manhattan, Marks and Spencer, British Airways, Coca Cola Schweppes, HSBC, and the NHS Confederation. Significant numbers have taken further training to pursue careers in broadcasting, journalism, law, and teaching at every level.

Entry Requirements (International Students)

• Secondary School Diploma Overall Grade 70% over 100%.
• English Language Requirements: IELTS 6.5 (min 5.5 in all bands)
• 2 Academic Reference Letters
• Statement of Purpose (Motivation Letter)