Politics and Philosophy

Would you like to explore contemporary political issues, alongside the pressing philosophical debates of our day?

Our BA Politics and Philosophy degree gives you the chance to explore new ideas, challenge what you think you know and engage with the political and ethical issues that define modern life.

You’ll develop a deep understanding of current affairs while sharpening skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning and effective problem solving.

In politics, you will study core areas such as comparative politics, political theory and global security, examining how power operates and how decisions are made on the local, national and international stages.

In philosophy, you will learn to apply rigorous thought to contemporary issues, from justice and human rights to technology, identity and global responsibility.

Beyond the classroom, you will be part of a lively and ambitious student community. Join societies such as the Politics Society, Debate Society and United Nations Society (https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/articles/explore-more-articles/social-sciences/the-united-nations-society-at-the-university-of-nottingham.html) to make friends, attend trips and build valuable skills for your CV.

You will also have opportunities to hear from influential external speakers, giving you rare insights into global security, diplomacy and policy making. Previous guests have included Sir John Sawers, former Chief of MI6, and Major General Tim Cross.

By combining politics with philosophy, you will gain a broad, adaptable skills set that opens doors across the private, public and charitable sectors. Graduates from our school have gone on to become parliamentary assistants, councillors, civil servants, researchers, policy analysts and consultants. Many now work at leading organisations including AON, the BBC, Citibank, the Civil Service, the House of Commons and UNISON.

Course Highlights:

• Tailor your studies to your interests and career goals through a range of optional modules.

• Our placements and internship opportunities provide valuable real-world experience that looks great on your CV (https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/politics/study/careers/placements/index.aspx).

• Study abroad opportunities in locations such as China, Europe and the USA.

Proven Results:

• We're in the top 20 in the UK for both Politics and Philosophy (Complete University Guide 2026).

• Politics and international relations graduates earned a median salary of £39,400 five years after graduation (LEO data from 2022/23 tax year, published in 2025).

Course Modules

For detailed information about the modules you will study, please visit the course page. https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/politics-and-philosophy-ba-jt-hons.html

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/politics-and-philosophy-ba-jt-hons.html

How you will be assessed

Politics:

We present you with a variety of different challenges and types of assessment, including exams, essays, verbal presentations and projects. Each unit is assessed separately, meaning there are no daunting final exams at the end of your degree.

You will be given a copy of our marking criteria which provides guidance on how your work is marked. Your work will be marked in a timely manner and you will receive feedback on the tasks you are given.

Philosophy:
We present you with a variety of different challenges and types of assessment, including exams, essays, verbal presentations and projects. Each unit is assessed separately, meaning there are no daunting final exams at the end of your degree.

Assessment methods:

• Coursework

• Dissertation

• Essay

• Examinations

• Presentation

• Project work

For detailed information about the course assessment methods please visit the course page: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/courses/UG/politics-and-philosophy-ba-jt-hons.html