COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Philosophy and Politics degree at the University of Reading combines philosophical inquiry with the study of political systems to help students analyse fundamental questions about society, democracy, and justice. Core philosophy modules include Reason and Argument, which develops logical reasoning by examining arguments in everyday and academic contexts, and Great Works in Philosophy, which explores key philosophical texts to strengthen critical interpretation and analysis. In politics, students study Introduction to Contemporary Democracy, which examines how different democratic systems function across the world, including topics such as electoral systems, political parties, voting behaviour, and political change. Politics of Climate Change explores ethical and policy challenges surrounding environmental issues, while Introduction to Political Ideas focuses on core debates in political theory such as authority, freedom, democracy, and social justice. The programme also includes The Study of Politics, which introduces key research methods and approaches, alongside either Comparative Government and Politics or Political Classics, covering global political systems or foundational political thinkers. In the final year, students complete a dissertation in Philosophy or Politics, or an independent learning module, allowing them to conduct original research on a topic of their choice. This structure builds strong analytical, theoretical, and research skills while encouraging engagement with both abstract ideas and real-world political issues.