History and Politics BA
AAA at A level, an A in either History or Classical Civilisation; graduates earn a median £27,500 three years on.
Typical A level offer
AAA
an A in either History or Classical Civilisation · 100% of entrants came with A levels · 92% stay on after year 1 · York course page, Discover Uni
Year 13 · applying
What do you need to get in?
AAAtypical A level offer; aaa including an a in either history or classical civilisation
Typical offer — the grades most applicants are asked for. Contextual offer: ABB, for applicants from under-represented backgrounds.
York course page, read 19 September 2026 · Discover Uni entry profile
- 1an A in either History or Classical Civilisation
Who actually got in: 100% with A levels. Based on 45 entrants.
Other qualifications5
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Obtain Access to HE Diploma with 39 credits at Distinction including at least 9 Obtain Access to HE Diploma with 39 credits at Distinction including at least 9 credits in History-related units and 6 credits at Merit or higher. | — |
| BTEC | DDDDDD with an additional A Levels or equivalent qualification in History or Classical Civilisation at grade A | — |
| IB | 36 points36 points including 6 in History at Higher Level | 6 in History at Higher Level |
| Scottish Highers | BBBB | — |
| Advanced Highers | A in History plus | — |
Years 1–3
What do you study?
4compulsory modules in year 1, 3 optional
Compulsory modules this year: arts & humanities 52% · transversal skills 22% · language & communication 14% · social & cultural skills 12%.
Module — one course unit, usually a term or a year long; “core” means everyone takes it. One UK credit is about ten hours of study; a full year is 120 credits.
York course page · optional modules vary by year
Year 1 · 4 core, 3 optional · 80 credits ≈ 800 hours
- Political Communities in World History
What you learn (4)
- describe political history across western and non-western societies
- analyse connections between focused historical studies across time and place
- construct historical arguments orally and in writing
- explain political changes and continuities over time
- Knowledge and Belief in World History OR Evidence and Methods
What you learn (10)
- describe key intellectual, cultural and social developments in Western societies
- describe key intellectual, cultural and social developments in non-Western societies
- summarise relevant scholarly debates relating to these historical fields
- analyse historical case studies critically
- identify connections between historical events across different periods and regions
- take effective notes from historical sources and discussions
- construct a written historical argument supported by evidence
- present a historical argument orally in group discussion
- explain patterns of intellectual and cultural change over time
- construct an argument about continuities in intellectual and cultural history
- Arguments and Analysis
What you learn (11)
- identify differing scholarly interpretations of a historical topic
- critically evaluate competing approaches to a historical subject
- explain the features of a well-structured academic essay
- apply referencing conventions correctly in written work
- construct a coherent written argument using clear prose
- synthesise material from lectures, discussions and reading into an argument
- present an evidence-based argument orally
- produce a written evidence-based argument
- describe the department's assessment grading criteria
- reflect on one's own approach to historical study
- present ideas collaboratively as part of a group
- Political Analysis
What you learn (2)
- identify core concepts and debates in political analysis history and development
- gather and interpret political data using analytic approaches to justify conclusions
3 optional modules
- Introduction to Political Theory: The State, Liberty and Revolution
What you learn (9)
- identify key concepts in political theory
- describe major historical and contemporary debates in political theory
- construct arguments using conceptual analysis
- formulate normative judgements on political questions
- present reasoned arguments on political theory topics
- write clearly about political theories and concepts
- translate theoretical ideas into accessible written language
- evaluate arguments critically and reflectively
- recognise cultural differences in political perspectives
- Introduction to International Politics: Global Hierarchies and Global Order
What you learn (13)
- identify key issues shaping contemporary world politics
- describe explanations and policy responses to global political issues
- identify major theoretical debates in international relations
- explain how different theories frame responses to global issues
- analyse how power and hierarchy shape global political order
- evaluate the role of inequality in shaping world politics
- explain how framing of issues shapes research questions asked
- explain how theoretical choices influence data collection and conclusions
- reflect on the complexity of global political phenomena
- contextualise one's own position within global political processes
- discuss the basis for conceptions of the global public good
- construct a well-organised argument using relevant sources
- communicate political concepts and facts clearly and concisely
- York Policy Lab
What you learn (12)
- identify categories of public policy and the actors involved in shaping them
- describe influences that affect the development of public policies
- frame a real-world issue as a defined policy problem
- evaluate alternative policy options using analytical criteria
- justify the selection of a preferred policy option
- describe difficulties encountered when carrying out policy analysis research
- locate and apply relevant empirical data to a policy question
- identify tools used in applied policy analysis
- analyse how policy analysis tools have been applied to evaluate policies
- write a policy brief presenting recommendations for a professional audience
- deliver an oral presentation of policy recommendations to policy-makers
- reflect on personal development achieved through collaborative teamwork
Year 2 · 2 core, 31 optional · 40 credits ≈ 400 hours
- Historical Thinking
What you learn (7)
- identify key debates about the nature of historical knowledge
- relate theoretical debates to how historians practise their discipline
- evaluate how historians define and use key concepts in their writing
- identify underlying assumptions in historical arguments
- critique assumptions underpinning historical debates
- apply close reading techniques to historical texts
- analyse concepts within historical sources
- Theories of the State
What you learn (7)
- explain key debates and concepts in theories of the state
- identify normative and ideological assumptions within theories of statehood
- analyse the epistemological basis of differing perspectives on state power
- formulate research questions in political theory using varied analytical approaches
- construct a coherent argument addressing theoretical debates
- present a reasoned argument clearly to an audience
- describe how global and cultural contexts shape theories of the state
31 optional modules
- Bankers, Merchants, and Poets: Florence and the Roots of the Renaissance
What you learn (5)
- describe detailed subject knowledge of Renaissance Florence
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources
- use varied historical sources to construct arguments
- evaluate historians' differing interpretations of the topic
- manage independent study through seminar discussion
- The Scientific Revolution, 1500-1700
What you learn (5)
- describe key developments and debates in the Scientific Revolution, 1500-1700
- analyse primary sources relevant to the Scientific Revolution
- synthesise information from secondary historical scholarship
- evaluate historians' differing interpretations of the Scientific Revolution
- manage independent study through participation in seminar discussions
- Historical Fictions and Frictions: Fictionalising the Past
What you learn (4)
- describe detailed subject knowledge of the historical topic studied
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources
- evaluate historians' arguments about the topic studied
- manage independent study through seminar participation
- Empire and Cultural Exchange in Asia 1500-1700
What you learn (4)
- describe key themes and events of empire and cultural exchange in asia 1500-1700
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate historians' differing interpretations of the topic
- manage independent study informed by seminar discussion
- Social Science and Modern Britain, c1880-c1970
What you learn (5)
- describe detailed subject knowledge of the historical topic studied
- combine information from multiple primary sources into a coherent account
- combine information from multiple secondary sources into a coherent account
- assess the validity of historians' interpretations of a given topic
- manage own learning through participation in seminar discussions
- Before the Mongols: Nomadic Empires of Central Eurasia, 900-1200
What you learn (5)
- describe key events and developments in nomadic Central Eurasian history 900-1200
- combine evidence from primary sources to construct historical understanding
- integrate findings from secondary historical literature into an argument
- assess the validity of competing historical interpretations of the period
- manage own learning and research through seminar participation
- Using and Abusing the Past in Britain, 1835-2018
What you learn (4)
- explain key themes and events relating to the specific historical topic studied
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study using seminar discussion as a basis
- From the Global Shadows: Africa and the World since the 1950s
What you learn (5)
- describe key events and developments in African global history since the 1950s
- synthesise primary sources to construct a historical narrative
- combine secondary sources to support a historical argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study through participation in seminar discussions
- Communist Europe: Crisis, Transformation & Memory after the Second World War
What you learn (5)
- describe key events and themes of communist europe after ww2
- synthesise primary sources to construct historical arguments
- synthesise secondary sources to construct historical arguments
- evaluate historians' differing interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study through participation in seminars
- Heterosexual Africa? Sexuality, Power, and Politics in Africa since 1900
What you learn (4)
- describe key themes and events in the history of sexuality in Africa since 1900
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate historians' differing interpretations of sexuality and power in africa
- manage independent study using seminar discussion as a learning tool
- Health for all? International Health from Colonial Medicine to Covid Vaccine
What you learn (3)
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study using seminar discussions as guidance
- Powerful Impressions: Culture and Politics in the Post-1945 United States
What you learn (5)
- describe key events, figures and themes in post-1945 US cultural politics
- use primary sources to support historical interpretation
- synthesise secondary sources to construct a historical argument
- evaluate competing historians' arguments on a given topic
- manage independent study tasks arising from seminar discussion
- Black Radicalism
What you learn (4)
- explain key themes and events in the history of black radicalism
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study through participation in seminar discussions
- Containing Multitudes: Inequality and the City in Britain and its Empire post-1800
What you learn (5)
- describe key themes of inequality and urban life in Britain and its empire
- combine information from primary historical sources to build an argument
- combine information from secondary historical sources to build an argument
- evaluate historians' interpretations of urban inequality in the empire
- manage independent study to prepare for seminar discussions
- Chivalry, Identity and Love 1350-1450
What you learn (5)
- describe key themes and events of chivalry, identity and love 1350-1450
- combine information from primary sources to construct a historical account
- synthesise secondary scholarship to support a historical argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of the topic
- manage independent study tasks arising from seminar discussion
- Catherine the Great
What you learn (4)
- describe detailed historical knowledge of Catherine the Great's reign
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of the topic
- manage independent study using seminar discussions
- Vikings and Historians: Historiographical Dialogues through the Ages
What you learn (5)
- explain key themes and debates within the specific historical topic
- synthesise information from primary historical sources
- combine evidence from secondary historical scholarship
- evaluate competing historians' interpretations of a historical topic
- manage independent study using seminar discussions
- Persecution and Toleration in Early Modern Britain
What you learn (4)
- explain key developments in persecution and toleration in early modern Britain
- synthesise primary and secondary historical sources into a coherent argument
- evaluate historians' competing interpretations of the topic
- manage independent study through participation in seminar discussions
- Gender, Enlightenment and Revolution in Eighteenth-Century Europe
What you learn (5)
- describe key themes and debates in gender, Enlightenment and revolution
- interpret primary historical sources relevant to the period studied
- synthesise secondary historical literature into a coherent argument
- evaluate differing historical arguments on the topic studied
- manage independent study through participation in seminar discussion
- Crime and Society in Britain and Ireland since 1750
What you learn (5)
- describe key events and developments in crime and society since 1750
- combine information from multiple primary sources to build an argument
- synthesise findings from secondary historical literature
- evaluate competing historical interpretations of crime and society
- manage independent study tasks arising from seminar discussion
- Research Design
What you learn (8)
- explain debates on applying social science methods to political research
- evaluate benefits and limitations of research methods in political studies
- apply qualitative and quantitative research tools to a research problem
- evaluate strengths and weaknesses of research techniques using critical reasoning
- formulate research questions independently
- design a research study by selecting appropriate methods and data
- design a feasible research project within set constraints
- set clear goals and objectives for a research project independently
- Human Rights and Wrongs
What you learn (5)
- describe political factors shaping human rights struggles in different settings
- identify strategies used by human rights advocates in varied contexts
- compare advocacy strategies across differing political opportunities
- evaluate case studies of struggles for freedom, dignity and justice
- apply an intersectional lens informed by histories of oppression to case analysis
- Politics in the United Kingdom
What you learn (6)
- explain key concepts used in the study of UK politics
- describe major theories relevant to UK political analysis
- apply political concepts and theories to historical developments in UK politics
- apply political concepts and theories to current developments in UK politics
- construct a coherent written argument on a UK politics topic
- present a clear oral argument on a UK politics topic
- Politics of Development
What you learn (8)
- differentiate between competing theories of development
- critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of development theories
- describe current debates and issues within development studies
- explain the theoretical basis underlying proposed development solutions
- analyse the political consequences of development policy choices
- explain the role of domestic institutions in shaping development outcomes
- explain the role of international institutions in shaping development outcomes
- apply empirical evidence to assess institutional influence on development
- The Politics of Gender
What you learn (10)
- explain major theoretical approaches to gender studies
- analyse domestic and international political issues through a gender perspective
- evaluate the political significance of gender in policy debates
- design independent research into gender and politics topics
- apply suitable research methods to gender-related political questions
- identify solutions to gendered problems in domestic and international politics
- work independently to address gender-related political challenges
- communicate gender studies concepts clearly in a political context
- describe diverse perspectives within gender studies and politics
- assess the broader social implications of differing gender perspectives
- Things Fall Apart
What you learn (7)
- describe key historical debates about what constitutes politics
- evaluate competing theoretical arguments on political legitimacy
- identify strengths and weaknesses in theories of legitimate political order
- construct written arguments using module concepts and theories
- plan independent study goals to address research problems
- analyse primary and secondary sources to inform argument
- reflect critically on the ethical implications of different political theories
- IR Theory and Planet Politics
What you learn (14)
- describe the historical development of key International Relations theories
- explain contemporary accounts of major International Relations theoretical approaches
- apply International Relations theories independently to analyse political problems
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of International Relations theories
- explain how global crises challenge traditional International Relations concepts
- formulate relevant research questions in International Relations
- explain how theories and concepts apply to international problems
- justify research conclusions with independent reasoning
- apply theoretical and practical perspectives creatively to global issues
- analyse empirical data relevant to international problems
- present detailed arguments in writing following academic conventions
- present detailed arguments orally following academic conventions
- reflect on the social and environmental implications of International Relations theories
- apply International Relations perspectives independently to address global challenges
- War and Peace
What you learn (7)
- describe the historical origins and development of conflict and peace processes
- explain current national and international dynamics of conflict and peace
- apply relevant theories and concepts to analyse issues of war and peace
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of theoretical approaches using critical reasoning
- test theoretical claims against empirical evidence where appropriate
- analyse empirical data relating to conflict and peace issues
- present complex arguments clearly through appropriate communication media
- The Rising Powers
What you learn (9)
- select and justify appropriate theories and concepts for a research question
- gather and interpret data relevant to a research topic
- formulate justified conclusions from research findings
- lead a team towards achieving a shared objective
- collaborate with peers on group projects and problem-based tasks
- deliver a group presentation summarising joint findings
- explain key concepts of international relations theory
- debate global issues using international relations perspectives
- apply international relations frameworks to real-world problems
- European Union Politics
What you learn (10)
- explain political and legal processes driving European integration
- describe distinctive features of the EU institutional order
- analyse major policy areas of the European Union
- evaluate how recent crises challenge the EU political system
- identify problems arising in EU policy-making processes
- propose solutions to policy issues using theoretical frameworks
- analyse official EU sources to support policy recommendations
- present arguments on the value of EU policy-making theories
- explain how official EU sources can test policy theories
- evaluate competing visions of European integration against shared values
Year 3 · 2 core, 53 optional · 80 credits ≈ 800 hours
- History Dissertation plus two Politics option modules
What you learn (8)
- design a large-scale independent research project
- manage a research project through to completion
- investigate a chosen research topic in depth
- explain findings on a specific research topic at length
- analyse primary source material through extended research
- apply research skills to original historical material
- relate own research findings to existing scholarly debates
- evaluate own conclusions against other historians' interpretations
- Politics Dissertation plus either: Two Politics option modules One Politics option module and one Comparative History module An elective module
What you learn (8)
- explain the historical development and current dynamics of a specialist political topic
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of theories using empirical evidence where relevant
- explain how chosen theories and concepts underpin an independent research project
- select and apply suitable methods for collecting and interpreting data
- justify conclusions drawn from independent research
- analyse empirical data to address a political problem
- communicate advanced political arguments and ideas effectively
- reflect critically on intercultural perspectives and differing visions of the public good
53 optional modules
- Commemorations
What you learn (7)
- identify key methods used in comparative historical analysis
- describe challenges encountered when comparing historical cases
- explain various facets of the studied historical topic
- apply comparative approaches to analyse a historical topic
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches to a historical topic
- discuss comparative historical issues in academic dialogue
- write analytically about comparative historical topics
- Travel
What you learn (7)
- identify key methods used in comparative historical analysis
- explain difficulties encountered when comparing historical cases
- describe multiple dimensions of the chosen historical topic
- apply comparative frameworks to analyse a historical topic
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches to a topic
- construct written arguments about comparative historical themes
- discuss comparative historical issues orally with peers
- Animals
What you learn (7)
- identify key methods used in comparative historical analysis
- explain difficulties encountered when comparing historical cases
- describe multiple dimensions of the chosen historical topic
- apply comparative approaches to analyse a historical topic
- evaluate the effectiveness of comparative approaches to a topic
- discuss comparative historical arguments in group settings
- write academic analyses of comparative historical topics
- Beauty
What you learn (7)
- identify key methods used in comparative history
- explain challenges involved in comparing historical contexts
- describe various aspects of the history of beauty
- apply comparative approaches to the study of beauty
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches to historical topics
- discuss comparative historical arguments in seminar settings
- compose written analysis on comparative historical topics
- Violence
What you learn (7)
- identify key approaches used in comparative history
- explain challenges encountered when comparing historical cases
- describe multiple aspects of the studied historical theme
- apply comparative approaches to a historical topic
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches to a topic
- discuss comparative historical issues in seminar settings
- write academic essays on comparative historical topics
- Popular Politics? The History of British Political Culture since 1945
What you learn (6)
- identify key themes and debates in British political culture since 1945
- describe the historical development of post-war British political culture
- analyse original historical sources relating to post-war British politics
- relate primary sources to relevant secondary historical scholarship
- interpret historical texts through close reading techniques
- participate confidently in scholarly discussion of historical debates
- Communisms
What you learn (7)
- identify key methodologies used in comparative history
- explain the difficulties involved in comparing historical cases
- describe multiple dimensions of communism as a historical theme
- apply comparative approaches to the study of communism
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches to this topic
- discuss comparative history through structured argument
- compose written analysis on comparative historical themes
- Empires
What you learn (7)
- identify key methods used in comparative historical analysis
- describe common challenges encountered when comparing historical cases
- explain various aspects of the empires studied during the module
- apply comparative approaches to analyse empires
- evaluate the usefulness of comparative approaches for studying empires
- discuss comparative historical arguments in seminar settings
- compose written analysis on comparative historical topics
- Imperial Japan, 1890-1950
What you learn (5)
- identify key themes and debates in imperial japanese history
- describe major historical developments in imperial japan 1890-1950
- analyse original historical sources on imperial japan
- compare primary and secondary accounts of historical events
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Joan of Arc
What you learn (7)
- identify key themes and debates concerning joan of arc
- describe the historical context and significance of the topic studied
- analyse original historical sources related to the topic
- evaluate the reliability and perspective of original sources
- relate primary sources to relevant secondary scholarship
- apply close reading techniques to historical texts
- participate confidently in discussion of historical debates
- The French Wars of Religion
What you learn (5)
- identify key themes and debates in the french wars of religion
- describe historical knowledge of the french wars of religion
- analyse original historical sources
- relate primary sources to secondary scholarship
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Race, Place and Health in Britain and its Empire, 1880-1960
What you learn (3)
- analyse original historical sources relating to race, place and health
- relate primary sources to secondary historical scholarship on the topic
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Hong Kong: Decolonisation and Development, 1945-97
What you learn (5)
- identify key themes and debates in Hong Kong's decolonisation history
- describe the historical development of Hong Kong from 1945 to 1997
- analyse primary historical sources on Hong Kong's development
- relate primary sources to secondary historical interpretations
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Black British History and Decolonisation
What you learn (5)
- identify key themes and debates in Black British history and decolonisation
- describe core concepts and content relating to black British history and decolonisation
- analyse original historical sources relating to black British history
- relate primary sources to secondary scholarly interpretations
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Thomas More: Learning, Politics and Religion in England, 1500-35
What you learn (6)
- identify key themes and debates on Thomas More's era
- describe the political and religious context of early Tudor England
- analyse original historical sources on the period
- relate primary sources to secondary scholarly interpretations
- interpret historical texts through close reading
- discuss historical debates confidently with peers
- Ploughing the Sea? The Spanish American Wars of Independence, 1750-1830
What you learn (5)
- identify major themes and debates in Spanish American independence history
- describe key historical events and developments of the period 1750-1830
- analyse original historical sources related to the period
- relate primary sources to secondary scholarly interpretations
- discuss historical texts and debates confidently in seminar settings
- Poverty and the Welfare State in Post-War Britain
What you learn (5)
- identify key themes and debates in post-war British welfare history
- describe the historical development of poverty and welfare policy
- analyse original historical sources on poverty and welfare
- relate primary sources to secondary historical interpretations
- discuss historical texts and debates through close reading
- Exiled Lives: English Nuns in Catholic Europe, 1600-1800
What you learn (7)
- identify key themes and debates in the history of exiled English nuns
- describe the historical context of English nuns in Catholic Europe
- analyse primary historical sources related to exiled religious communities
- evaluate the reliability and perspective of original historical documents
- compare primary sources with secondary scholarly interpretations
- interpret historical texts through close reading techniques
- participate confidently in scholarly discussion of historical debates
- Reading and Writing in Medieval England
What you learn (4)
- explain key themes and debates in a studied historical topic
- analyse original historical sources
- compare primary and secondary historical material
- discuss historical texts and debates with confidence
- Prussia and the Unification of Germany, 1815-1918
What you learn (6)
- identify central themes and historiographical debates on Prussian and German unification
- describe key events and developments in the unification of Germany under Prussia
- analyse original historical sources relating to Prussia and German unification
- evaluate the reliability and significance of primary historical sources
- compare primary sources with secondary historical interpretations
- discuss historical texts and scholarly debates with confidence
- Mao and Maoism
What you learn (5)
- identify major themes and debates concerning Mao and Maoism
- explain key historical knowledge about Mao and Maoism
- analyse primary historical sources on Mao and Maoism
- compare primary and secondary historical material
- discuss historical texts and debates with confidence
- Revolution in the Streets: Faith, Poverty, & Religious Ferment, c.1200
What you learn (6)
- identify central themes and debates within the historical topic
- describe key historical developments relating to medieval religious movements
- analyse primary historical sources to draw historical conclusions
- compare primary sources with secondary scholarship to assess interpretations
- conduct close critical reading of historical texts
- participate confidently in scholarly discussion of historical debates
- Francis Bacon: Myth, Magic and Morals
What you learn (7)
- identify key themes and debates relating to francis bacon studies
- describe the historical context and subject matter of the topic
- analyse original historical sources related to the period
- comment critically on the content of original historical sources
- compare primary sources with secondary scholarly interpretations
- apply close reading techniques to historical texts
- participate confidently in discussion of historical debates
- Rome Reborn: Culture and Society c.1575-c.1655
What you learn (7)
- identify key themes and debates in early modern Roman culture and society
- describe the historical context and content of the period studied
- analyse primary historical sources to draw conclusions about the period
- comment critically on the content and significance of original documents
- relate primary sources to secondary scholarly interpretations
- interpret historical texts through close reading
- discuss historical debates confidently with peers
- From War to Peace? Statebuilding and Political Transition in Southeast Asia
What you learn (6)
- compare theoretical approaches to transitions from war to peace
- apply statebuilding and peacebuilding theories to regional case studies
- describe key periods of conflict and peace in modern Southeast Asia
- explain significant political transitions in the region's recent history
- construct reasoned arguments about complex political issues
- communicate complex political analysis clearly in writing and speech
- Governing the Global Economy
What you learn (5)
- explain key debates surrounding the character of global economic governance
- summarise academic literature on specific global economic governance institutions
- critique established theoretical concepts in global economic governance scholarship
- formulate independent arguments in response to claims in the literature
- construct written arguments using sophisticated political science concepts
- Green Politics
What you learn (7)
- explain ethical perspectives on how humans should relate to nature
- distinguish green political thought from other political ideologies
- describe the distinctive features of ecological political ideas
- apply an ecological framework to analyse debates on political change versus continuity
- evaluate strategies used by green parties to promote sustainability
- assess how mainstream political parties address environmental sustainability
- evaluate the role of environmental movements in collective action for sustainability
- Karl Marx
What you learn (3)
- explain a major intellectual tradition in modern political thought
- apply conceptual analysis to problems in political practice
- explain connections between philosophy, economics, sociology, history and politics
- The Labour Party and Socialism
What you learn (10)
- describe the historical origins and development of the Labour Party
- explain contemporary dynamics shaping the labour movement
- apply political theories and concepts to explain challenges facing the Labour Party
- design independent research on the labour movement using relevant theories
- select and use appropriate methods to collect and interpret data
- justify research conclusions with supporting evidence
- evaluate Labour Party policies using theoretical and empirical perspectives
- formulate policy recommendations based on analysis
- communicate reasoned conclusions on the Labour Party's development using theory and data
- reflect critically on differing visions of socialism in Labour Party research
- Political Transition in the Middle East: A Century of Conflict
What you learn (9)
- identify main forms of political transition in the Middle East
- identify recurring trends in Middle Eastern politics
- explain the causes of recurring political trends in the region
- explain economic factors driving political change in the Middle East
- explain historical factors driving political change in the Middle East
- explain social factors driving political change in the Middle East
- explain the significance of recent political changes in the region
- situate recent political events within the longer history of the region
- explain how trans-national links shape regional politics
- Governmentality: Foucault and the Analytics of Power
What you learn (3)
- evaluate different theoretical approaches to governmentality
- explain key concepts in Foucault's analysis of power
- compare perspectives of theorists associated with governmentality studies
- "We, the People": Ideas of Democratic Representation
What you learn (7)
- describe the historical development of political representation
- explain the role and aims of political representation in diverse political contexts
- evaluate the potential and limits of political representation
- analyse the challenges of representing different groups within and beyond the state
- describe recent theoretical developments in political representation
- evaluate the evolving role of representation within democratic politics
- assess normative and practical challenges arising from changes in representation
- Terrorism and Counter-terrorism
What you learn (12)
- describe key theoretical developments in terrorism studies literature
- summarise key empirical findings in terrorism and counter-terrorism research
- critique fundamental concepts used in terrorism studies
- generate original interpretations of concepts in counter-terrorism studies
- critique established explanations within terrorism and counter-terrorism literature
- propose original hypotheses on terrorism and counter-terrorism issues
- analyse counter-terrorism policy using theoretical and empirical evidence
- formulate policy recommendations for counter-terrorism practice
- reflect on prior knowledge to assess perspectives on terrorism
- evaluate differing perspectives on counter-terrorism using guiding principles
- evaluate complex arguments on contentious terrorism-related issues
- communicate evaluative analysis using varied formats
- Global Politics of Nuclear Weapons
What you learn (9)
- describe key empirical cases of nuclear proliferation and disarmament
- explain core concepts underpinning nuclear deterrence and non-proliferation
- identify competing theoretical frameworks linking nuclear issues to policy
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of rival explanatory frameworks
- synthesise diverse concepts to assess contemporary nuclear challenges
- critique ethical debates surrounding nuclear deterrence and security
- present structured, evidence-based arguments on nuclear policy issues
- conduct independent research using primary and secondary nuclear policy sources
- produce an analytical essay demonstrating depth of scholarly comprehension
- The European Far Right
What you learn (16)
- explain core theoretical frameworks used to analyse far right politics
- evaluate the ideological positions of far right parties
- assess the policy platforms adopted by far right parties
- evaluate electoral campaigning strategies used by far right parties
- compare models explaining far right voting across European countries
- contrast far right dynamics between Eastern and Western Europe
- assess the impact of far right politics on contemporary democracy
- apply theoretical concepts independently to diverse European case studies
- construct balanced academic arguments on far right politics
- judge what evidence is required to support an argument
- conduct independent research on far right politics
- evaluate the suitability of different research methods for studying far right politics
- write essays critically engaging with academic literature and evidence
- collaborate effectively within a team on shared tasks
- manage individual study tasks independently
- participate in class discussions to strengthen communication skills
- Africa and International Politics
What you learn (8)
- describe key dynamics shaping Africa's role in international politics
- analyse case studies illustrating African international relations themes
- identify strengths and weaknesses of theoretical approaches to African politics
- evaluate the explanatory power of competing political theories
- propose solutions to contemporary issues facing African states independently
- apply theoretical and empirical knowledge creatively to political problems
- communicate advanced political concepts clearly in written form
- present advanced political ideas effectively in oral form
- Ethics and International Politics
What you learn (10)
- explain the historical origins and development of international politics
- analyse the ethical and legal dimensions of contemporary global affairs
- apply political and international relations theories to specific cases
- formulate independent research questions in politics
- select and use appropriate methods to collect and interpret data
- justify research conclusions based on gathered evidence
- devise solutions to political problems using theoretical and practical perspectives
- analyse empirical data to inform political arguments
- present complex political arguments clearly through suitable formats
- apply political and international relations perspectives to real-world challenges
- Knowledge and Democracy
What you learn (9)
- describe theories relating to the politics of technology
- identify key case studies illustrating technology-politics debates
- apply empirical analysis to case studies to support evaluation
- set personal goals to structure independent research work
- devise solutions to problems using theoretical and practical perspectives
- analyse relevant academic literature to inform solutions
- produce written work that conveys complex political ideas clearly
- conduct independent study respecting tolerance and inclusivity
- recognise ethical and political implications of differing theoretical positions
- Contemporary Politics of South Asia
What you learn (10)
- describe major political events shaping South Asian politics
- interpret the significance of key political events in the region
- analyse how theoretical approaches explain South Asian political phenomena
- evaluate the application of key political concepts to regional cases
- justify the use of specific concepts such as clientelism and neoliberalism
- summarise current scholarly debates on South Asian politics
- construct a reasoned argument in spoken discussion
- produce a coherent written argument supported by evidence
- interpret scholarly texts to identify central arguments
- critically appraise theoretical concepts used in political analysis
- Gender, War and Militarism
What you learn (5)
- evaluate feminist theories linking gender to violence in war and peace
- describe the varied roles of women and men in violence and resistance
- analyse local and national structures of violence using a gender perspective
- analyse transnational and global events of violence using a gender perspective
- devise feminist-informed strategies to resist gendered violence at multiple levels
- The Global Food System
What you learn (5)
- analyse key aspects of the global food system independently and critically
- explain the relationship between theory and practice in the food system
- interpret complex concepts and theories relating to the food system
- exercise critical judgement when assessing food system issues
- deliver effective oral and written presentations using academic sources
- Global Sustainability and Energy Policy
What you learn (11)
- describe energy policy developments across european countries
- explain causes and consequences of changes in european energy policy
- compare competing frameworks linking energy, economic and environmental policy
- critique frameworks explaining relationships between energy and social policy
- evaluate alternative explanations for energy policy change and integration
- generate original analytical perspectives on course themes
- research and synthesise data from diverse sources
- present arguments and concepts clearly in spoken form
- write concepts and arguments clearly and fluently
- manage own workload independently with initiative
- construct a reasoned argument supported by critical judgement
- The Politics of (Post-)Colonialism
What you learn (7)
- explain how colonial history shapes today's global political structures
- apply advanced theoretical frameworks to analyse colonial politics
- critically evaluate theories explaining postcolonial continuities
- construct arguments grounded in postcolonial political theory
- reflect critically on how knowledge about colonialism is produced
- describe alternative epistemologies originating from the Global South
- identify links between colonial power structures and knowledge creation
- Britain in a Changing Global Political Economy
What you learn (6)
- evaluate Britain's relationship with the contemporary global economy
- assess strengths and weaknesses of political economy theories
- apply conceptual frameworks to empirical economic debates
- critique academic debates on Britain's global economic role
- present critical arguments on global economic theories in writing
- articulate critical arguments on global economic theories orally
- Development Paradigms
What you learn (1)
- describe key political processes and problems in development
- Politics of Peace after Civil War
What you learn (8)
- describe key challenges faced by post-civil-war states
- evaluate competing explanations for varied post-war outcomes
- apply quantitative and qualitative evidence to assess arguments
- compare post-war experiences across different country types
- identify dynamics explaining similarities and differences across cases
- evaluate peacebuilding policies and approaches
- assess consequences of peacebuilding applications across contexts
- collaborate with peers to analyse peacebuilding cases
- Political Psychology and Public Opinion
What you learn (7)
- explain how personality traits relate to political behaviour
- describe psychological foundations underlying political ideologies
- explain how citizens form judgements on complex issues with limited information
- apply political psychology theories to analyse political participation
- apply political psychology theories to explain voting choices
- apply political psychology theories to evaluate political communication
- evaluate strengths and weaknesses of focus groups and surveys in public opinion research
- International Crisis Diplomacy
What you learn (8)
- explain how information shapes the outcomes of international crises
- apply theoretical debates to analyse current international crises
- identify strengths and weaknesses of rival crisis diplomacy approaches
- evaluate key debates on coercive diplomacy
- apply leader behaviour theories to real-world crisis situations
- evaluate diplomatic efforts made during crises
- formulate solutions to resolve international crises
- discuss factors determining the effectiveness of force and sanctions
- Democracy and Emergency
What you learn (10)
- describe key assumptions of major theoretical traditions on emergency powers
- compare debates between competing traditions of emergency powers theory
- apply theoretical frameworks to analyse concepts of emergency and exception
- analyse crisis situations using relevant conceptual tools independently
- formulate solutions to emergency politics problems using theoretical perspectives
- interpret empirical data to address emergency-related political issues
- present theoretical and empirical arguments about emergency politics clearly
- reflect critically on personal perspectives regarding emergency politics
- evaluate differing visions of the public good across cultures
- apply emergency politics theory to analyse real-world challenges
- Constitutional and Territorial Ideologies in Britain and Ireland
What you learn (4)
- describe the constitutional ideologies shaping British and Irish politics historically
- explain how constitutional ideologies inform contemporary political debates
- evaluate the arguments underpinning different constitutional positions
- construct a written argument using module concepts in assessed work
“What you learn” restates each module’s published learning outcomes in our own words, as short skill statements in the same form as the GCSE and A level curriculum, with the help of an AI model; fields of knowledge follow the twelve fields of the knowledge sphere. The university’s module page, linked from each title, is the authoritative description.
After graduating
Where does it lead?
£27,500median pay three years after graduating
Lower quarter£23k
Median£28k
Upper quarter£35k
Median — the middle earner: half earned more, half less. Pay is for graduates of this subject at this university who finished in 2016-18, not adjusted for inflation; based on 180 graduates.
Discover Uni dataset (HESA and Office for Students, CC BY 4.0, contains HESA data); earnings from the Longitudinal Education Outcomes data (Department for Education) · aggregation level 14, 13, 23
Half of graduates earned between £22,500 and £35,000. Five years on, the median is £37,000. 90% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing; 60% of those in work were in professional or managerial jobs.
All outcome figures7
| Measure | Value | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Continue after year 15% left | 92% | 65 |
| In work or study, 15 months on10% studying | 90% | 30 |
| Professional or managerial job | 60% | 25 |
| Pay 15 months on, median | £28,000 | 65 |
| Pay 3 years on, median | £27,500 | 180 |
| Pay 5 years on, median | £37,000 | 200 |
Money
What does it cost?
£10,050a year for UK students, 2027/28 entry
Tuition fee loan — paid straight to the university; repayments start the April after you leave, at 9% of income above the threshold. UK fees are capped by government and rise with inflation; placement and study-abroad years are usually charged at a lower rate.
York fees page · source
About £30,150 in fees over 3 years, covered by a tuition fee loan you repay only when earning above the threshold. International students: £27,800 a year (2027/28).
National Student Survey 2025-26
What do students say?
78%agreed the course was good overall (question 26)
NSS — a yearly survey of final-year students at every UK university; 78% of this course’s final year answered. Small groups can swing a lot year to year.
National Student Survey, via Discover Uni · 40 students answered
Highest: 95% agreed on question 1; lowest: 53% on question 25.
All questions26
| Question | Agree |
|---|---|
| Question 1 | 95% |
| Question 2 | 93% |
| Question 3 | 93% |
| Question 4 | 88% |
| Question 5 | 93% |
| Question 6 | 86% |
| Question 7 | 86% |
| Question 8 | 57% |
| Question 9 | 83% |
| Question 10 | 69% |
| Question 11 | 83% |
| Question 12 | 76% |
| Question 13 | 81% |
| Question 14 | 86% |
| Question 15 | 90% |
| Question 16 | 90% |
| Question 17 | 76% |
| Question 18 | 76% |
| Question 19 | 79% |
| Question 20 | 88% |
| Question 21 | 85% |
| Question 22 | 95% |
| Question 23 | 86% |
| Question 24 | 59% |
| Question 25 | 53% |
| Question 26 | 78% |
Question texts are published by the Office for Students; the dataset carries only the question numbers.
Modules, entry requirements and fees are facts read from University of York’s course page on 2026-09-19 and may change; the university’s page is authoritative. Descriptions are not reproduced. Outcome figures are from the Discover Uni dataset. University of York is a trade mark of the university; sch.today is independent of it.