BA (Hons) Politics

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65 to 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 79, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 54 with no individual score below 51.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Portsmouth offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at both domestic and international students and are awarded based on various criteria such as academic excellence, financial need, and specific areas of study. 

Chancellor's Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. It provides a significant fee reduction for the duration of the student's course.

Vice-Chancellor's Global Development Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students from selected countries who are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses. It offers a fee reduction of up to £4,000.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university offers scholarships specifically for students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships vary in value and eligibility criteria.

Sports Scholarships: The University of Portsmouth recognizes the achievements of talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their development and academic success. These scholarships provide financial support, training facilities, and other benefits.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at the University of Portsmouth offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance or have a particular interest in a specific field of study. These scholarships are often subject-specific and may vary in terms of eligibility and value.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Politics program at the University of Portsmouth possess a diverse skill set and are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. This program equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, enabling them to pursue diverse roles in politics, government, international relations, advocacy, and beyond.

Public Policy Analyst: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as public policy analysts, working for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutes. They conduct research, analyze data, and evaluate policy proposals to inform decision-making on a wide range of social, economic, and environmental issues. Public policy analysts may specialize in areas such as education policy, healthcare policy, environmental policy, or foreign policy.

Political Researcher: Political researchers work for political parties, elected officials, or advocacy organizations, conducting research on political issues, public opinion, and electoral trends. They gather and analyze data, prepare briefing documents, and provide strategic advice to policymakers and campaign teams. Political researchers play a crucial role in shaping political strategies, messaging, and campaigns.

Government Relations Specialist: Government relations specialists, also known as lobbyists, work for corporations, trade associations, or non-profit organizations to influence government policies and regulations. They build relationships with policymakers, advocate for their organization's interests, and monitor legislative developments. Government relations specialists may focus on specific policy areas such as healthcare, energy, finance, or technology.

Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: Graduates with an interest in international relations may pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing their country's interests abroad. They work for government agencies such as the Foreign Office or the State Department, engaging in diplomatic negotiations, promoting international cooperation, and addressing global challenges such as security, trade, and human rights.

Campaign Manager: Campaign managers play a key role in political campaigns, overseeing strategy, messaging, and operations to ensure the success of candidates or political parties. They coordinate campaign activities, manage staff and volunteers, and develop outreach plans to mobilize supporters and win elections. Campaign managers may work for political parties, candidates, or advocacy groups.

Policy Advisor: Policy advisors work for elected officials, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, providing expertise and advice on policy issues. They research legislative proposals, draft policy briefs, and recommend solutions to address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Policy advisors may specialize in areas such as immigration, criminal justice, education, or social welfare.