University of Leicester

Politics and Sociology BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Politics has been taught at Leicester since the 1940s and we have always been at the cutting edge of British political science. We were one of the first Sociology departments to be established in the UK, and we now have an international reputation, a wealth of experience in teaching and an enviable research pedigree. Politics and Sociology are intrinsically linked as politics and policies often seek to address social issues.

Over the course of your degree you will explore these links and be challenged to look at the world through new political and sociological perspective. You will also gain an understanding of the key aspects of political systems, both here in the UK and further afield. There is no better city than Leicester to explore fundamental sociological concepts such as ethnicity, migration and social class.

With a range of vibrant and diverse communities including Narborough Road, “the most diverse street in Britain”, Leicester offers the perfect environment to develop your craft via observation, participation and guided reflection. The first year of your degree ensures that you get a thorough understanding of the main areas of both politics and sociology. In your second and third years you will have more flexibility to shape the course of your degree through the huge variety of option modules that you will be able to choose from.

These option modules reflect the research interests of academic staff, exposing students to the latest thinking. Our staff are engaged in cutting-edge research and we believe that good teaching flourishes in an intellectual environment informed by original research. The development of transferable skills is a key feature of teaching here at Leicester.

Our courses are designed to improve your skills in written communications, oral presentation, working as part of a team, independent learning, problem solving and information technology. Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world. You c

Key highlights

  • Explores links between political policy and social issues
  • Covers political systems in the UK and internationally
  • Study ethnicity, migration and social class in diverse Leicester
  • Wide choice of option modules in second and third years
  • Option modules reflect staff research and the latest thinking
  • Builds communication, teamwork, problem-solving and IT skills

Entry requirements

  • A-level: BBB — A/AS Levels : BBB.
  • A-level: BBC — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass diploma with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 credits at Distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 28 points overall.
  • BTEC: DDM — BTEC Nationals : Full Diploma with DDM.
  • T-level: Merit — to include in Management and Administration

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Policy Officer
  • Social Researcher
  • Local Government Officer
  • Political Researcher
  • Community Development Worker
  • Charity Campaigns Officer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £20,200

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 University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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