Politics

A-Level Politics

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel

Introduction

Course summary

The course is designed to develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics, political ideas, institutions of government and structures of power and authority. A successful politics student has:

  • the desire to understand current issues and rapid political change
  • a willingness to participate and work with others
  • an ability to write effectively and develop skills of debate
  • an interest in continual research

Course Content

  • Component 1: UK politics and core political ideas
    • democracy and participation
    • political parties
    • electoral systems
    • voting behaviour and the media
    • core political ideas: conservatism, liberalism, socialism
  • Component 2: UK government and non-core political ideas
    • the constitution
    • Parliament
    • Prime Minister and executive
    • relations between the branches
    • non core political ideas: feminism
  • Component 3: global politics
    • state and globalisation
    • global governance: political and economic
    • golbal governance: human rights and environmental
    • power and developments
    • regionalism and the European Union
    • comparative theories

Assessment

Three two hour written examinations, each worth 84 marks/one third of the full A-level.

Careers and Progression

The study of politics develops problem solving and research skills. It informs you of the events which have a real impact on people's lives. Careers which require enhanced skills of communication and a keen sense of attention to detail and debate are open to you, across both public and private sectors such as local or national government, research, journalism, media, teaching and the legal profession. Students go on to study politics, international relations or PPE at university.

Entrance Requirements

Minimum requirement: 6 GCSEs Grades 9-4 (or equivalent), including Grade 4 or above in English and maths

Strongly recommended: Grade 5 in English