Bangor University

Politics

Bangor UniversityBangor, United Kingdom

Course overview

Highlights

Taught by internationally respected researchers actively exploring the effects of political and social change, policy, practice and repercussions, both today and as far back as the Middle Ages. Our research specialisms cover diverse themes including politics, media management, protest, gender, religion, society, culture, economics, social policy, and Welsh identity. Opportunities to discuss and debate society’s biggest issues.

Understand how and why governments act and the public responds to climate change, migration, benefits, and more. Gain real-life experience by undertaking a work placement, recent students have worked with Bangor City Council and within the offices of local MPs.

Course overview

Studying Politics helps you understand the complex relationship between the state, political ideas and developments, and society. Learning to think critically and politically, you’ll be able to engage in contemporary political debate. Explore some of the most significant issues that face the world today, such as freedom, the environment, poverty, media, housing, and globalisation with our Politics degree.

Where possible, we provide opportunities to witness for yourself the three faces of political power: decision making, agenda setting, and thought control. Our Politics degree allows you the opportunity to examine the evolution of the post-war British state whilst engaging with contemporary social and political debates. You'll be introduced to key political concepts and debates throughout your studies, developing critical skills in research, analysis, and evaluation.

Studying politics at Bangor University gives you a unique opportunity to live and experience political debate that happens at different level through Wales' devolved Government. We encourage you to explore politics from different angles and prepare you for a career where you can impact policy and drive change in the world we live in. Read more Course options

Placement year

What is the Placement Year? This exciting opportunity allows you to spend a year working with a self-sourced, professional organisation relevant to your studies. You'll typically start between June and September of your second year and finish by the following June or September.

Placements can be UK-based or even overseas. Why choose a Placement Year? Gain practical experience that complements your academic learning Make valuable industry contacts that could open doors for future careers Strengthen your employability by gaining real-world experience.

How does the Placement Year work? With dedicated support from your Academic School and our Careers and Employability Services, you will be fully equipped to find the perfect placement to complement your degree. We will guide you through the process of securing and finalising your placement arrangements.

Is the Placement Year for you? There is no need to decide now. You will have the chance to explore the Placement Year option after starting your course at Bangor University.

We'll provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. Ready to find out more? Discover the exciting work experience opportunities available by visiting the Work Experience During Your Degree section on our website.

International Experience Year What is the International Experience Year? Take your studies to the next level and graduate with ‘International Experience' in your degree title. This degree offers an optional additional International Experience Year, giving you the chance to spend a year abroad.

Why choose an International Experience Year? Expand your horizons and gain a fresh perspective by living and learning in a different country Boost your career prospects by graduating with international experience and intercultural skills Choose your adventure from a range of exciting destinations and partner universities to find your perfect fit. Is there language support?

If you plan to study in a country where English is not spoken…

Key highlights

  • Taught by internationally respected researchers in political and social change
  • Research specialisms include protest, gender, religion, media and Welsh identity
  • Work placements with Bangor City Council and local MPs' offices
  • Optional Placement Year with UK or overseas organisations
  • Optional International Experience Year added to your degree title
  • Experience devolved politics first-hand through Wales' devolved Government

Entry requirements

  • UCAS tariff points: 104-128 — Offers are tariff based, 104 - 128 tariff points from a Level 3 qualification* e.g.: A Levels: General Studies and Key Skills not normally accepted BTEC National Extended Diploma: DMM - DDM Cambridge Technical Extended D…
  • BTEC: DMM-DDM — BTEC National Extended Diploma
  • Welsh Baccalaureate — We will accept this qualification in conjunction with othe

Scholarships

  • Alumni Scholarship

    £1,000 in addition to any other international scholarship awarded by Bangor University, UK (excluding the Vice-Chancellor scholarship), awarded for each year of study.

    Up to £1,000
  • Deans Scholarship

    Undergraduate: £6,000 (per year of study); Postgraduate: £6,000.

    Up to £6,000
  • International Scholarships

    Undergraduate: £4,000 minimum (per year of study); Postgraduate: £6,000.

  • Start-Up Bursaries

    Start Up Bursaries of £1,000 are available to those students (aged under 25) entering the University from care.

    Up to £1,000
  • Vice-Chancellor Scholarship

    Undergraduate & Postgraduate Taught - £10,000

    Up to £10,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Policy officer
  • Parliamentary researcher
  • Local government officer
  • Public affairs consultant
  • Political journalist
  • Civil servant

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790 | International: £18,000

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Bangor University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.

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