MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
Loughborough University’s BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year offers students a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies of political systems, governance, international relations, and policy analysis while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field. The program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of political theory and practice, preparing them for a wide range of career options in government, international organizations, political consultancy, and the public sector. The integration of a placement year allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world political environments, making this program an ideal choice for those looking to gain practical experience and enhance their employability before entering the workforce.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year at Loughborough University offers a robust curriculum that combines foundational political theory with contemporary global issues. In the first year, students are introduced to core subjects such as political ideologies, governance, political institutions, and the role of the state. As the program progresses, students delve deeper into specialized topics such as international relations, political theory, comparative politics, public policy, and political economy. The curriculum emphasizes a balanced approach, providing students with both theoretical insights and practical analytical skills. In the third year, the placement year allows students to work in a political or related organization, gaining professional experience that can inform their academic studies and future career choices. The program is structured to develop key skills such as critical thinking, research, and effective communication, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the competitive political landscape.
Research Focus: Loughborough University’s BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year benefits from a strong emphasis on research, particularly in the areas of political theory, international relations, governance, and policy analysis. Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research, often publishing in high-impact academic journals and contributing to influential global debates. The research focus of the program encourages students to critically engage with contemporary political issues, from global security concerns to social justice and political participation. Loughborough’s research centers provide a rich environment for students to explore key themes and contribute to academic discussions. This focus on research helps students develop the analytical and methodological skills needed to tackle complex political problems and prepare for careers in research, policy-making, or consultancy.
Industry Engagement: One of the standout features of the BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year program at Loughborough University is its strong industry engagement. The placement year offers students the chance to work with political organizations, government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, or international institutions, giving them valuable insight into the political process and practical experience in political environments. Students have the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings, working on projects related to policy analysis, campaign management, political communication, and international relations. Loughborough University has established strong links with a variety of political and professional organizations, enhancing the chances of securing meaningful placements. In addition, the university’s Careers Network provides ongoing support, helping students with placement applications, career counseling, CV workshops, and interview preparation. These industry connections ensure that students are well-equipped to transition from university to the workplace with the experience and skills needed to thrive in political and related fields.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year program at Loughborough University is designed with a global perspective, allowing students to engage with political issues and processes that span beyond national borders. The curriculum incorporates global challenges such as climate change, international security, and human rights, encouraging students to consider the political implications of these issues on a global scale. Students are also given opportunities to study abroad or participate in global exchange programs, which broaden their understanding of international political systems and provide valuable cross-cultural experiences. With a focus on international relations and global governance, graduates of the program are well-prepared to work in diverse political and international contexts, whether in diplomacy, NGOs, or multinational organizations.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23000
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% 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 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Graduating with a BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year from Loughborough University opens up a wide array of career opportunities across government, public policy, international relations, political consultancy, and beyond. The integration of a placement year within the program enhances students' employability by providing them with valuable real-world experience that is highly regarded by employers in the political and public sectors. Loughborough University’s strong connections with industry partners and its emphasis on career development ensure that students are well-equipped to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Policy Analyst: As a policy analyst, graduates research, evaluate, and recommend policies for government departments, think tanks, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Their role involves analyzing data, assessing policy impacts, and advising on political strategies. The analytical skills developed during the BA (Hons) Politics program, coupled with hands-on experience from the placement year, prepare graduates to assess political landscapes and contribute to decision-making processes in public policy.
Political Consultant: Political consultants advise political candidates, parties, and governments on strategy, public relations, and campaign management. The BA (Hons) Politics program provides a comprehensive understanding of political behavior, communications, and election dynamics, which can be applied in the consultancy field. With practical experience gained during their placement year, graduates can help political organizations craft effective strategies and manage political campaigns.
Public Affairs Specialist: Public affairs specialists help organizations navigate political and regulatory issues by managing communications with government officials, stakeholders, and the media. Graduates with a focus on politics, political communication, and public policy can find opportunities in public relations firms, lobbying groups, or corporations. The skills acquired in critical thinking, advocacy, and policy communication are essential for success in this career.
Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: Many graduates opt to pursue careers in diplomacy or foreign service, representing their country in international relations. As diplomats, they work on negotiations, treaty agreements, conflict resolution, and fostering bilateral or multilateral relations. With a global perspective embedded in the BA (Hons) Politics program, graduates are prepared for work in embassies, consulates, and global organizations like the United Nations.
Civil Service: Graduates may pursue careers within the civil service, working as civil servants in a variety of government departments. The civil service offers roles that influence public policy and decision-making in sectors like health, education, environment, and finance. BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year graduates benefit from a deep understanding of political systems and policy analysis, which is crucial for navigating the complex governmental landscape.
International Relations Specialist: For those interested in global governance, diplomacy, and international cooperation, becoming an international relations specialist is a viable career path. Graduates may work in international organizations such as the European Union (EU), United Nations (UN), or World Trade Organization (WTO), addressing issues such as international security, development, and human rights. The program’s focus on international relations theory and practice, alongside the placement year, prepares students for these global challenges.
Political Journalist: Political journalists report on political events, conduct interviews, and provide analysis on current affairs. Graduates with a passion for media and politics can work as political correspondents or reporters for newspapers, television stations, or online platforms. The program’s emphasis on political communication and critical engagement ensures that students are equipped to report on political developments accurately and insightfully.
Campaign Manager: A political campaign manager is responsible for organizing and managing political campaigns. From devising strategies to managing media relations and fundraising efforts, campaign managers play a critical role in getting political candidates elected. The BA (Hons) Politics program provides students with a strong foundation in political strategy and campaign management, which is further enhanced by practical experience during the placement year.
Researcher in Political Science: Graduates can also pursue careers as researchers in the field of political science, conducting studies on political behavior, public policy, or political theory. Political researchers often work for academic institutions, think tanks, or research organizations. The program’s emphasis on research methods, combined with experience gained from the placement year, enables graduates to undertake meaningful research and contribute to the understanding of political dynamics.
Human Rights Advocate: Graduates interested in social justice and human rights can pursue careers in advocating for marginalized communities, lobbying for policy changes, and promoting human rights laws. They may work for international NGOs, human rights organizations, or legal firms. The BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year program provides graduates with a comprehensive understanding of global political issues and human rights, preparing them for roles in advocacy, legal counseling, and policy reform.
NGO Worker: Many graduates choose to work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on issues such as poverty alleviation, environmental protection, and social justice. These roles can include program management, policy analysis, advocacy, and community engagement. The BA (Hons) Politics with Placement Year program prepares graduates with the necessary skills in research, policy analysis, and international relations to effectively contribute to the mission of various NGOs.
International Development Specialist: Graduates can also pursue careers in international development, working with international organizations to address issues such as poverty, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in underdeveloped regions. The program’s global perspective, combined with practical experience during the placement year, makes graduates highly competitive in the field of international development.
