Are you fascinated by big questions about everyday life? What is right and wrong? What is good and evil? What is power? Philosophy and Politics draws upon our understanding and perception of the world, its events and theories. Our BA provides solid foundational knowledge, enabling you to delve into the big issues and questions that impact our everyday lives. You will analyse governmental decisions and debates based on traditions and policies, building a critical view of the world. With this, you will become equipped with key skills in communication, problem-solving and analytical thinking, preparing you for advanced careers.

Course overview

Philosophy and Politics at Keele poses important questions about right and wrong, human life and the nature of reality as well as looking into the role of power, leadership and policies within society.

In Philosophy you will study texts, think about ideas and formulate your own philosophical theories. Explore central themes such as moral and political philosophy, logic, epistemology, and the philosophies of mind, religion and science as you consider key philosophical problems about the nature of the world, the mind and the various solutions proposed.

Youll learn about different philosophical traditions past and present, including Anglo-American, Indian, Buddhist, Greek, French and German philosophy. Youll enhance your logical and critical thinking skills, and develop the use of sound arguments to defend your views, while detecting fallacies and other argumentative weaknesses.

Politics at Keele helps you to understand society and the events and forces which shape it, engaging with questions of power, justice, conflict, and governance. Our programme allows you to study the foundations of this subject area as well as tailoring your studies to suit your individual interests, whether these are theoretical, historical, empirical or related to specific issues.

Work Placement Year

You will also have the opportunity to opt for a Work Placement Year in the School of Social Sciences between Year 2 and 3. This will allow you to apply your knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment enabling you to build key skills in communication, teamwork and project management. You will be able to demonstrate your abilities and creative thinking, working with fellow professionals as well as independently.

Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Your future career

95% of Keele students are in employment or further study within 15 months of finishing their studies (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2019/20)

Enhance your employability

A degree in Philosophy and Politics will equip you with a wide skill set, applicable to a variety of sectors. You will gain highly developed skills in critical thinking, negotiating, and multiple approaches to problem solving, all of which are highly prized by employers. You will learn to organise your time and workload, to present your views confidently and to negotiate with others.