Curious about studying Politics - BA (Hons)at University of Stirling? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Stirling Campus
Full Time
Sep 2027
4 Year
Politics permeates every aspect of our lives – shaping our opinions, informing our decisions and helping us to understand what motivates people. When you study Politics at the University of Stirling, you’ll increase your awareness of the different political systems, ideologies and policies that impact people’s lives regionally, nationally and globally. We’re ranked among the best universities for Politics in Scotland, and are highly regarded for our strong, research-led approach to teaching. A Politics degree helps you develop the intellectual, communication and analytical skills employers are looking for. You’ll open the door to a wide range of career opportunities – from politics itself, to connected arenas such as commerce, civil service, journalism, law and teaching. Study abroad opportunities
An introduction to politics in the UK. The module explores major institutions and processes in British politics.
By the end of this course students should have: A knowledge and understanding of the key political institutions in the West and why they vary. A solid grasp of key concepts used in the study of comparative politics. A critical awareness of the interaction between the various institutions. A better understanding of the political process in the UK by comparing the structure and functions of British institutions with those in similar countries in the Western world.
This module is concerned with studying key issues in political theory. Topics include: What are the grounds and limits of our duty to obey the government?; What is the purpose of good government?; What are the origins of property rights?; What role should liberty and equality play within the political realm? and What is the relationship between economic and political equality? These themes will be explored through the social contract theories advanced by Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, Mill's defence of individual freedom in 'On Liberty' and Marx's conception of history and his critique of capitalism.
This module covers mainstream theories of international relations, analyses key global actors and international organisations, and explores contemporary issues and debates in contemporary world politics.
Students have the opportunity to study optional modules in this year.
The dissertation enables students to develop and apply accumulated knowledge and skills to a self-chosen project. Supervisors are typically allocated in mid-April (semester 6) and students can start their research during the summer months if they wish to do so. Regular supervision meetings - based on a compulsory assignment in semester 7 and subsequent chapter drafts - begin in mid-September. A final rough draft of the dissertation is due at the end of February (semester 8) and the final dissertation at the beginning of April.
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