Politics
- On this page
Regardless of whether or not you’re a political animal, politics plays a crucial part in our lives. Our rights as citizens, the development of the European Union, and the effects of a global ‘war’ against terrorism all depend on government policy.
Your OU studies will help you understand more about some of the biggest political challenges and changes in modern society, and how decisions are made, implemented and regulated. For an international perspective on important issues, such as inequality, power and authority, you might also like to look at courses in our Environment and International Studies programme.
A degree in politics can give you a head start if you’re looking to develop a career in politics itself. But the analytical, research and presentation skills you’ll develop through your studies will be a real benefit for roles in the civil service, finance, journalism, management training, advertising, PR and market research.
Degrees
-
Combined Social Sciences
Develop a rich synthesis of knowledge and skills drawn from the breadth of social sciences subjects: criminology; economics; geography; politics; psychology; sociology; and social policy. -
Politics, Philosophy and Economics
An internationally recognised combination of subjects, providing you with skills and understanding particularly relevant to many areas of public service, including civil and diplomatic services and local government. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree is a qualification that gives you a huge choice in terms of subjects and modules that you study to make up your degree.
Diplomas of Higher Education
Certificates of Higher Education
Not sure if you’re ready? Try a short introductory Openings course
If you would like to try Open University study before you commit to a qualification, our Openings courses could be the right place for you to start. These introductory-level courses have been specially designed to help you find out what it’s like to study with the OU, get a taste of a subject area, develop your study skills, and build your confidence. There is also financial support available for these courses. Read more about our Openings courses.
Study a module as a standalone course
You can study a single module on its own for personal interest or to improve your career prospects. See the list of all our individual courses in Politics.
Undergraduate
Your questions
We may have already answered it in our frequently asked questions.
Or contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90 +44(0) 845 366 60 35
Get a prospectus
Download ororder