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The study of government and politics is a fast-moving, dynamic subject that is never dull. In a world of limited resources, it is the way we determine who gets what, having an impact on everyone in society, from big businesses to individuals.
We are all affected by decisions on issues such as health, employment, education and taxation, and developing knowledge of politics is to understand what drives these decisions and how individuals can play a role in shaping our society.
In your study of government and politics at A-level at our sixth form centre, you will explore the concept of democracy and consider the different forms that it can take. You will learn about the different ways that individuals can participate in political activity and will discover the different factors that might affect voting decisions. You will learn about the different political parties and their beliefs.
You will also develop an understanding of how the UK is governed and will look at the roles of different elements of the state. Through the study of politics, you will develop a wide range of skills and will gain insight into the lives and viewpoints of others. This is invaluable for a host of careers, whether you go down the route of further study, an apprenticeship or go directly into industry after your A-levels.
Why choose A-levels at our sixth form centre?
- PREPARE FOR UNIVERSITY AT A UNIVERSITY – We can provide you with relevant work placements, masterclasses, guest speakers, trips and more
- AWARD-WINNING SUPPORT – We have won national awards for our student support, which our sixth form students can tap into, from tailored academic support to financial assistance and health and wellbeing services
- OUTSTANDING LEARNING FACILITIES - We have invested £5.5 million into our brand-new sixth form centre, which includes lecture theatres, classrooms, science and computer labs, practical training facilities and open study spaces
- MOVE UP TO UNIVERSITY – Want to keep studying at a higher level? This A-level will support your progression to degree level
Course breakdown
To achieve your Politics A-level, you must study the following topics:
UK politics
- Democracy and political participation
- Voter behaviour
- Electoral systems
- Political parties
UK Government
- The UK constitution
- Parliament
- The Prime Minister and the executive branch of government
- The relationships between the branches of the state
Core political ideas
- Socialism
- Liberalism
- Conservatism
Comparative politics
- The US Constitution and Federalism
- US Congress
- US Presidency
- US Supreme Court and US civil rights
- US democracy and participation
- Comparative theories
Non-core political ideas
In addition to the core political ideas, you will also study one of the following:
- Multiculturalism
- Feminism
- Nationalism
- Ecologism
- Anarchism
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
- We ask for a minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 5 or higher, including GCSE English Literature or Language and Maths.
Supporting documents required
- School applicants will be required to provide a school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.
Guaranteed progression
Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham. Some undergraduate courses require additional entry requirements, so applicants are advised to check entry requirements before applying.
Key information
Teaching and assessment
You will be assessed through three written exam papers in the Summer of your second year. These exams will assess:
- your knowledge and understanding of political institutions, processes, concepts, theories and issues.
- your ability to analyse political information and issues, to identify parallels, connections, similarities and differences
- your ability to evaluate aspects of politics and political information
Your class work and directed learning are designed to prepare you well for your exams and to help you to develop a range of skills that will help you in your future studies and work.
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.
Centre of opportunities
Our sixth form centre taps into the wider university's networks to enhance student opportunities and gives you access to world-class university facilities.
We are creating something unique and special for Birmingham and I am delighted you are considering us for your next steps. Studying A-levels requires discipline and determination, but it is also incredibly rewarding, offering you a deep insight into the subjects you choose to study. Sixth form is also an opportunity for you to discover what’s important to you and how you want to make your mark on the world. Our aim is to support and challenge you through this, while developing your character and widening your horizons so you flourish, professionally and personally.
What will this course prepare you for?
The study of politics will prepare you for careers in the Civil Service, policy and research, journalism, law and business-related roles.
Lawyer
Average Salary: £50,000
Journalist
Average Salary: £33,000
Business manager
Average Salary: £50,000
Researcher
Average Salary: £39,000
Business support
Average Salary: £29,000
Our new sixth form centre
University College Birmingham is to begin offering a range of A-level courses as part of a major multi-million-pound investment in a brand-new sixth form centre.
