Politics A Level

Qualification: GCE A Level in Politics
Exam Board & Specification Code: Pearson; 9PL0; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 4 in English Language GCSE
Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 3 x 2 hour exams
BHASVIC Department: Philosophy, Politics and Law

Head of Department Tom Trafford

What will I study?

Your first year will allow you to fully understand the ever-changing nature of the UK political system. It will allow you to answer big questions like: ‘How are Laws Passed?’; ‘Why do we always only have two main political parties who can actually get into power?’; What power does the Prime Minister really have?’; Why is there such deep disagreement in UK Politics currently?’; ‘Is direct political action ever justified or effective?’; ‘How do I get involved, and help to bring about the changes that I want?’

In the second year, we are one of the only colleges in South East England who gives you a choice between studying the US political system or Global Politics. You will either become an expert in American politics or have a detailed understanding of international relations and global politics.

Finally, across the two years, we also study Political ideologies – Conservatism, Socialism, Liberalism and either Nationalism or Feminism. This allows to explore how different thinkers (such as Marx or Thomas Hobbes) believe the world should be run. 

Is this course right for me?

If you have an interest in current affairs, enjoy debate and discussion and are desperate to know how Britain really works, then this subject is for you. Everyone is affected by politics and the actions of politicians, therefore studying and talking about politics are an essential part of the life that we lead. You must enjoy reading about current affairs and finding out what is happening in the news. You must be interested in how and why decisions are made by politicians in a democratic system.

Where next?

From social and political research to journalism, marketing and HR, a qualification in politics opens up a variety of career opportunities as well as developing a broad range of skills.  You will acquire a good understanding of politics on a local and national level. You will gain a number of transferable skills, including being able to debate and examine issues from all standpoints, an ability to identify, analyse and find solutions to problems and to make reasoned arguments as well as gain excellent communication skills. Jobs directly related to politics could include: Civil Service, Government social research officer, Politician's assistant, Public affairs consultant, Social researcher. Jobs where this subject would be useful include:  Charity officer, Forensic accountant, Human resources officer, Local government officer, Market researcher and Journalist. Useful websites might include Targetjobs, Prospects and All About Careers.

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