What impact does politics have on economies and how do markets shape politics? The relationship between political and economic power is essential for comprehending our society, its challenges, and how to change it. Explore contemporary developments in both the political sphere and the economy on our Politics with Economics BA, asking fundamental questions to understand how politics shapes the economy and vice versa. Placement opportunities will enable you to gain valuable experience in the workplace and prepare you for careers in government, business and finance.
Why choose this course?
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No.1 in the West Midlands for Politics (Guardian University Guide, 2026)
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Politics ranked Top 10 in England (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)*
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Enhance your employability prospects with study abroad, entrepreneurship and work placement opportunities
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Access to industry-leading software such as Bloomberg and STATA
To understand society is to understand the relationship between political and economic power. Our Politics with Economics degree explores both areas individually and combined as the study of 'political economy', enabling you to consider the relationship between the two and how these disciplines shape social, economic and political life.
You will begin your journey by becoming familiar with both subjects and examining the nature of power and inequalities, whilst covering the basics of macro-economics and micro-economics. As you progress through your degree, you will investigate the process of political and economic change, with insights into the influences at the individual, local and national level and how decisions are made by actors in politics. With this knowledge, you will delve into the bigger issues facing political economy and how we can build a better future, developing skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and commercial awareness.
This programme offers a range of opportunities to engage with practical learning through real-world examples such as policy-making simulations, devising manifestos for change, policy reports and memos, data analysis, economic modelling and case study reports. These enrich your university experience, providing key skills in analytical thinking, communication and teamwork, all of which that are invaluable for your career prospects.
*We have compared the positivity ratings of all participating UK institutions using the NSS 2025 sector data to determine Keele's position relative to other broad-based universities (i.e. excluding specialist institutions and further education colleges).
About Keele
Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.
We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.
Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.