COURSE CURRICULUM

The Politics degree at the University of Stirling offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, ideas, and practices from local to global perspectives. In the first year, students are introduced to fundamental concepts through core modules such as People, Power, and the State, and Political Concepts and Ideas, while also having the flexibility to select optional modules across a broad range of disciplines. In the second year, the curriculum builds on this foundation with modules in Understanding International Politics, Great Political Thinkers, and Comparative Politics, allowing students to develop analytical skills and historical awareness, while continuing to choose complementary optional courses. The third year focuses on advanced topics in politics, including Global Development, International Politics, Nations and Nationalism, Global Political Economy, and The Politics of Justice, Equality and Rights, alongside essential research skills through Research Methods in Politics. The final year emphasizes independent scholarship with a Politics Dissertation and further optional modules that allow students to specialize in areas such as leadership, terrorism, political Islam, and historical political events from World War to the Cold War. Throughout the degree, students gain a strong understanding of political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, while developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills that prepare them for careers in public policy, government, international organizations, journalism, and beyond.