The UK has always been a popular destination for Indians who want to study politics abroad, offering a multicultural environment where you can focus on building your perspective whilst becoming aware of different world views.
Almost all British prime ministers have gained relevant degrees and started their careers by studying at prestigious UK universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and the London School of Economics. Some of the top Indian leaders have also studied there, including Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the man who framed India’s constitution, and ex-P.M. Dr Manmohan Singh.
Studying politics in the UK
Politics can be studied in the UK as an individual, a joint/combined course, or a double major. It is often studied in economics, history, sociology, philosophy and international relations. Degrees in politics are offered in more than 80 universities in the UK.
A postgraduate master’s in politics at a UK university will include studying current and previous political conflicts, different ideologies such as socialism, liberalism, and anarchism, different aspects of governance, international relations, and concepts such as freedom, democracy, human rights, and equality.
Careers in politics
Politics graduates are recruited as business associates, financial advisors, political analysts, human resources, and public relations officers. With experience, they can become politicians, diplomats, public affairs consultants, and political risk experts. Their areas of work include politics, governance, policymaking, research, social work, journalism, and education.
Your politics application
Learn more about studying for a politics degree at leading UK universities below. To apply, visit SI-UK India or book your free consultation today.
Top 10 UK Universities for Studying Politics
Below is the list of the top ten universities for studying politics in the UK, according to the Guarding University Guide 2024.
1. University of Oxford
The History and Politics programme merges historical context with political science, promoting critical thinking. It prepares students to analyse contemporary political issues through historical lenses and apply rigorous conceptual frameworks. The first year's emphasis on quantitative methods sets the foundation for advanced study.
Throughout the programme, students attend lectures and tutorials and engage in independent research. They have flexibility in course selection and participate in faculty discussions. The thesis project in the final year encourages independent inquiry. Tutorials offer personalised attention, while class sizes remain small for an enriching learning experience.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) History & Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL.
- International fee: £38,550
2. University of Cambridge
The BA (Hons) History with Politics degree dynamically explores the intersection between history and politics. Students delve into various subjects, including political science, the history of political thought, and global history.
Year one focuses on foundational concepts, while year two allows for deeper understanding through essays and specialised papers. In the final year, students choose from a wide array of topics and have the option to undertake a dissertation. Core interdisciplinary courses ensure a well-rounded understanding of key contemporary issues.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) History with Politics
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*AA. IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level.
- International fee: £25,734
3. London School of Economics and Political Science
The BSc Politics degree studies political science subfields, including comparative politics, political theory, and public policy. Students delve into foundational concepts like democracy and sovereignty while analysing political phenomena across cultures. The curriculum emphasises empirical analysis and theoretical inquiry, preparing students to address complex political questions.
Students can pursue a dissertation in the third year, enhancing their research and analytical skills. Students gain a deep understanding of Western political thought and contemporary political analysis through courses like Introduction to Political Theory and Political Science.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 38 points overall, including 766 at higher level.
- International fee: £27,192
4. King's College London
The Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Politics thoroughly explores international politics, comparative politics, and political theory, emphasising analytical and research skills development. Students cultivate critical thinking abilities and independence in addressing political issues, with interdisciplinary opportunities to explore political and economic intersections.
The curriculum introduces core concepts in the first year and offers diverse options for methodological training in subsequent years. In the final year, students undertake a dissertation project, conducting original research under supervision and showcasing their acquired skills and expertise in political analysis.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 35 points, including 766 at Higher Level.
- International fee: £33,450
5. University of Glasgow
Studying politics at Glasgow invites interpretation and debate, promoting classroom discussions to explore themes deeply. Ethical inquiries into state power, societal ideals, and international obligations are pondered alongside empirical analysis of political institutions and cross-cultural relations.
Year one introduces British and Scottish political systems and international relations fundamentals. Year two delves into the history of political thought and comparative politics across various nations. Advanced study in years three and four offers over 40 courses, including topics like citizenship, protest politics, and international communication, enriching students' understanding of global politics.
- Suggested course: MA(SocSci) (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: AAABB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer.
- International fee: £25,290
6. University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde offers an immersive study of politics and international relations, emphasising political philosophy and analytical skills. Students analyse global politics, understanding its complexities and theoretical frameworks under the guidance of world-renowned experts. Year one focuses on foundational concepts and skill development with close instructor guidance.
Year two enhances writing and argumentation skills while delving into international relations and political philosophy. Year three offers study abroad opportunities and specialisation in themes such as elections, public policy, and international relations, preparing students for diverse career paths.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Politics & International Relations
- Entry requirements: A-level: ABB-BBB. IB diploma: 32-30.
- International fee: £19,600
7. University of Warwick
The BA (Hons) Politics programme at the University of Warwick provides a comprehensive study of Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and Political Systems, with options for specialisation. Students analyse power dynamics, political systems, and societal issues, considering the influence of gender, race, and ideology.
The curriculum explores political theory's practical implications on the economy, law-making, and societal regulation, addressing contemporary challenges such as immigration, poverty, and climate change. While the first year doesn't contribute to the final classification, subsequent years progressively shape the degree outcome, ensuring a thorough understanding of political complexities.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 36 points. A-level: AAA.
- International fee: £24,800
8. University of Stirling
The University of Stirling's Politics programme offers an in-depth exploration of political systems, ideologies, and policies at local and global levels. Ranked among Scotland's top universities for politics, Stirling adopts a research-led teaching approach. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills highly sought after by employers.
Students engage with various topics, including gender and race in politics, political theory's practical applications, and contemporary global challenges. Flexibility in course selection allows students to tailor their studies, with opportunities for international exchange enhancing their understanding of global politics.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 30 points. SQA Highers AABB - by the end of S5.
- International fee: £17,200
9. University of Aberdeen
The Politics and International Relations programme at Aberdeen uniquely explores politics, power, and global dynamics, guided by esteemed academics with media expertise. Offering a strong foundation for careers in politics, international affairs, and media, the curriculum covers diverse topics such as liberalism, global wealth patterns, and human rights.
Students develop critical analysis and evaluation skills essential for future endeavours, preparing them to navigate complex political landscapes and contribute meaningfully to global discourse and policymaking.
- Suggested course: MA (Hons) Politics & International Relations
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate 32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL.
- International fee: £20,800
10. Loughborough University
The Politics BA (Hons) degree empowers students to critically analyse contemporary political issues and institutions, fostering a deep understanding of political mechanics and topical debates. From foundational concepts to specialised subjects like populism and political violence, the curriculum spans various modules, totalling 360 credits by graduation.
The programme aims to cultivate informed citizens capable of addressing 21st-century political challenges. Students can enrich their experience through placements, study abroad opportunities, and language studies, enhancing their versatility and readiness for diverse career paths.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Politics
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 34 (6,5,5 HL).
- International fee: £23,000
Study Politics in the UK
Learn from multicultural viewpoints and enhance your prospects by studying politics at one of these fantastic UK universities. Book your free consultation to inquire more and apply today.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
