MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Politics and Sociology
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Politics and Sociology at the University of Sussex offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of modern societies and political systems. This three-year undergraduate program, commencing in September 2026, is designed for students interested in exploring the dynamics between political structures and social institutions. By integrating political analysis with sociological perspectives, the course equips graduates with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to address contemporary global challenges.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in both disciplines. Core modules include Foundations of Politics, which introduces students to key political concepts and theories, and Themes and Perspectives in Sociology, offering insights into social structures and processes. Additionally, students engage in Research Skills and Methods in Political Science to develop empirical research capabilities. The program emphasizes critical analysis, ethical reasoning, and the development of arguments, preparing students for roles that require both analytical and practical expertise in addressing complex societal issues.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is renowned for its research excellence in both politics and sociology. In politics, the university is home to the Sussex European Institute and the Centre for the Study of Corruption, institutions that contribute to global discussions on governance and integrity. In sociology, faculty members engage in research across various areas, including social inequality, migration, and digital societies. Students benefit from exposure to this research through guest lectures, seminars, and opportunities to participate in research projects, fostering a rich academic environment that bridges theory and practice.
Industry Engagement: Sussex provides students with ample opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and collaborations with external organizations. The university's strong connections with political consultancies, NGOs, and governmental bodies enable students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings. Additionally, initiatives like masterclasses with professionals and opportunities to work with political experts enhance students' employability and professional networks.
Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global perspective, encouraging students to engage with international issues and perspectives. Opportunities for study abroad and participation in international conferences allow students to broaden their understanding of global politics and social dynamics. The diverse student body and faculty at Sussex further enrich the learning experience, fostering a multicultural environment that reflects the interconnectedness of the global political and social landscape.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% 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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) Politics and Sociology at the University of Sussex equips students with a deep understanding of both political systems and social structures, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities. The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows graduates to approach societal issues from both a political and sociological perspective, which is highly valued in many sectors. With a focus on critical thinking, research skills, and practical engagement, graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in government, public policy, international relations, social research, and more.
Political Analyst/Consultant: Graduates can work as political analysts, providing insights into political trends, elections, and policy development. Political consultants help organizations, political parties, and governments develop strategies based on data, public sentiment, and political dynamics. This role involves analyzing political systems and advising on campaign strategies or policy changes.
Public Policy Advisor: Graduates are well-equipped to advise governments, political parties, and NGOs on public policy. Public policy advisors research and recommend policies on a wide range of social and political issues, such as healthcare, education, and environmental protection, using both sociological and political frameworks.
Social Researcher: With a solid foundation in both sociology and political analysis, graduates can become social researchers. They may work in governmental agencies, think tanks, or market research firms, conducting studies on social behavior, political opinion, and societal trends to inform public policy and business strategies.
Civil Servant/Government Official: A common career path for graduates is to enter public service as civil servants, working in government departments or agencies. These roles may include positions such as policy analysts, legislative assistants, or public affairs officers, where they contribute to the development and implementation of government policies.
NGO Worker/International Development Professional: Graduates interested in social change can work for NGOs and international organizations, tackling issues like poverty, inequality, human rights, and environmental sustainability. They may be involved in advocacy, project management, or fundraising, applying their understanding of sociology and political systems to make a global impact.
Human Rights Advocate: Graduates with an interest in social justice can work as human rights advocates, fighting for the protection of rights at the national or international level. This could involve working with NGOs, international organizations like the UN, or government agencies, advocating for policy changes, legal reforms, or humanitarian aid.
Community Development Worker: Graduates can engage with local communities, working in roles that promote social cohesion, support marginalized groups, and improve living conditions. This could involve policy work, direct community outreach, or project management in non-profit organizations or local government.
Journalist/Political Correspondent: The program’s emphasis on political theory and social issues can also lead graduates to careers in journalism. As political correspondents, they report on political events, societal issues, and public policies, helping the public stay informed about the ever-changing political and social landscape.
Public Relations or Communications Specialist: Graduates can apply their communication skills in public relations or corporate communications, helping organizations manage their image and communicate effectively with the public. This role requires the ability to craft persuasive messages, manage crises, and build relationships with the media and other stakeholders.
Social Policy Analyst: As social policy analysts, graduates can work with government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions to analyze the impact of social policies. They use sociological research and political theory to evaluate existing policies, recommend new approaches, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking.
International Relations Specialist: Graduates can work as international relations specialists, particularly in areas such as diplomacy, international trade, or global conflict resolution. They may work in embassies, multinational corporations, or international bodies like the United Nations, helping to shape global political and social policies.
Teaching and Academia: Graduates with an interest in education can pursue careers in teaching, either at the secondary or post-secondary level. As sociology or politics teachers, they can inspire the next generation of students to think critically about the world and engage with social and political issues.
