From Global Conflicts to Elections: Why Study Political Science in the UK?

Political Science explores how governments operate, how political decisions are made and how power influences society. Students examine topics such as democracy, public policy, international relations, political ideologies and global conflicts.

For International Students interested in politics, the 英国 offers a range of undergraduate degrees with opportunities to explore both domestic and international political issues. Depending on the university, students can study Political Science as a standalone subject or combine it with International Relations, Economics or other disciplines.

This guide explores five UK universities offering Political Science degrees, including their course structures, international entry requirements, tuition fees 和 scholarship opportunities.

Why Study Political Science in the UK?

The UK has a long-established political system and an influential role in international affairs. Studying here allows students to examine political institutions, public policy and global relations within an international academic environment.

Many universities also offer opportunities to participate in political societies, attend guest lectures and gain practical experience through placements or study-abroad programmes. These experiences can help students develop research, communication and analytical skills.

1. University of Edinburgh

课程： MA (Hons) Politics
期间： 4年

The University of Edinburgh offers a four-year Politics degree covering political theory, comparative politics and international political developments.

Students explore how political systems function, how governments make decisions and how political ideas influence society. Areas of study may include democracy, political philosophy, public policy and international relations.

The programme also offers opportunities to study abroad during the third year. Students can explore Parliamentary Studies in their final year, gaining a closer understanding of political institutions and the UK parliamentary system.

International Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate: Typically 34–37 points, with Higher Level grades between 6,5,5 and 6,6,6, depending on the offer.
• English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component.
• Other international qualifications: Applicants must hold a recognised secondary school qualification that meets the university’s country-specific academic requirements.

Tuition fees: The 2027 international tuition fee should be confirmed with the university. For budgeting, its published 2026 undergraduate classroom-based starting rate was approximately £28,000 per year.

奖学金： Edinburgh offers a range of international scholarships. Awards and eligibility vary by nationality, academic performance and programme, so students should review the available undergraduate funding opportunities for their intake.

2. University of Bristol

课程： BSc Politics and International Relations
期间： 3年

The University of Bristol’s programme examines political systems, international relations and the global issues shaping modern society.

Students can explore topics such as:

• International security and conflict.
• Gender and political representation.
• Political philosophy and ideologies.
• International development and peace-building.
• Environmental politics and global governance.

The university’s teaching and research cover political developments across regions including Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

Students can also develop their academic and professional skills through workshops, guest speakers, reading groups and student societies. A four-year study option is available for students who wish to spend a year abroad.

International Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate: 36 points overall, including 18 points at Higher Level. Students should achieve at least 6 in an essay-based subject.
• English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in every component.
• Other international qualifications: Bristol accepts recognised qualifications from different education systems. Applicants should meet the equivalent academic standard specified for their country.

Tuition fees: £26,500 per year for International Students entering in 2027.

奖学金： The Think Big Undergraduate Scholarship offers eligible International Students awards of £3,000, £6,500 or £13,000 per year. Applications for 2027 entry open on 27 October 2026 and close on 19 March 2027.

3. University of Glasgow

课程： MA (Social Sciences) Politics
期间： 4年

The University of Glasgow’s Politics programme examines political institutions, ideologies and the relationship between governments and society.

Students develop an understanding of political behaviour, public policy and international political developments. They can explore subjects such as political theory, comparative politics and the study of government.

The four-year degree provides flexibility to explore related social science subjects. Students may also have opportunities to study abroad and experience different political systems.

International Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate: 36 points overall, with Higher Level grades of 6,6,5.
• Additional subject requirement: Students must achieve 6 in English or a Humanities subject at Higher Level, alongside the required English qualification.
• English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0. The university also accepts alternatives such as TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic.
• Other international qualifications: Applicants must meet Glasgow’s country-specific qualification requirements. Students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider a foundation certificate at Glasgow International College.

Tuition fees: £28,275 per year for international Arts and Social Sciences students in 2027/28.

奖学金： The World Changers Global Excellence Scholarship offers eligible students in the College of Social Sciences and College of Arts a £7,000 annual tuition fee discount. For the specified guaranteed award criteria, Politics applicants must achieve the required academic standard, including 36 IB points.

4. Queen Mary University of London

课程： BA Politics
期间： 3 years (4 years with a Year Abroad)

伦敦玛丽女王大学 offers a Politics degree that explores political thought, government systems and international relations.

Students examine how political decisions shape society and influence global developments. Topics include:

• Political theories, concepts and ideologies.
• International relations and global conflicts.
• British, American and comparative politics.
• Gender, race and politics.
• Foreign policy and international security.
• Global governance and political development.

Students can also choose specialised modules such as Politics of South Asia, Environmental Politics, Technology, Politics and War, and Migration and the Politics of Belonging.

The programme offers opportunities to study abroad, complete work placements and participate in political simulations. Students can also explore parliamentary studies and gain practical experience through a dedicated Parliamentary Internship module.

Based in London, students can access the Mile End Institute, a major political discussion and research forum that hosts high-profile speakers and connects academics with policymakers.

International Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate: Minimum 32 points overall, including Higher Level grades of 6,5,5.
• English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
• Other international qualifications: Queen Mary accepts a range of recognised international qualifications. Applicants must meet the university’s country-specific academic requirements. Students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider a foundation programme.

Tuition fees: £28,300 per year for International Students entering in 2027.

奖学金： The Global Talent Scholarship offers eligible international undergraduate students £5,000 per year towards tuition fees. For the Politics programme, applicants must exceed the standard entry offer. For example, IB applicants must achieve 34 points overall, including Higher Level grades of 6,6,5. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students, subject to meeting the academic and renewal conditions.

5. University of Sheffield

课程： BA Politics and International Relations
期间： 3年

这 University of Sheffield combines the study of politics with international relations, allowing students to understand political developments at both national and global levels.

Students examine political institutions, international cooperation, conflict, political ideologies and the relationships between countries. The programme develops research, critical thinking and communication skills that can be applied to different professional fields.

Students can also consider opportunities for a placement year or studying abroad, depending on their chosen pathway.

International Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall. Applicants with 33 points may also be considered if they achieve a B in the Extended Essay.
• European Baccalaureate: 80% overall.
• English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.
• Other international qualifications: Sheffield publishes country-specific qualification equivalencies. Students who do not meet direct undergraduate entry requirements may consider the International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at Sheffield International College.

Tuition fees: Sheffield’s published 2027/28 international undergraduate fee range is £27,650–£34,670 per year. The exact fee for Politics and International Relations should be confirmed with the university.

奖学金： The International Undergraduate Scholarship offers eligible International Students £2,500 per year. Students must maintain an average of at least 60% to continue receiving the award. The maximum award is £10,000 for eligible four-year programmes.

How AUG Student Services Can Help

Choosing a Political Science degree involves more than comparing university rankings. Students should consider course content, entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships and opportunities for practical experience.

AUG Student Services provides free study-abroad guidance to help International Students explore suitable universities and courses in the UK. From understanding qualification requirements to preparing applications and comparing study options, AUG can help you navigate the process.

Speak to AUG Student Services for a free consultation and explore your options for studying in the UK.