Why study politics?
From the cost of the food we buy at the supermarket, to the length of time we wait to see a doctor, politics plays a part in every aspect of our lives. But if you want to fully understand each component, studying a degree in Politics will broaden your perspective, hone your critical thinking and communication skills.
Why is it important to study politics?
Offering a truly global perspective on why politics matters and, crucially, how politics works - from allocating budgets, to funding public services, to the rule of law and more - a degree in politics will prepare you for a career with the potential to put you in the room where it happens. The Business, Economics, Law and Social Sciences International Foundation Year at the University of Surrey will fully prepare you to transition to a politics-related undergraduate degree and help you kickstart your career.
Understanding political systems
Studying politics involves learning about different political systems and how these affect the way that governments operate. For example, a democracy allows citizens to vote in an election, in an autocracy the power is held by a single ruler, and socialism focuses on the idea of collective ownership. Understanding the difference between these political systems will give you an understanding of how and why the citizens experience different levels of freedom and voting rights, and how that affects not only their lives but the course of history. As part of the International Foundation Year at the University of Surrey, you will learn about these political systems and how they have changed the world.
Developing critical thinking skills
Learning how to understand different perspectives, recognise bias and make informed decisions are important factors for a career in politics but are also crucial life skills. During your Politics degree you will develop the critical thinking skills needed to do all of the above. You’ll analyse important world issues, such as how one country’s environmental agenda can clash with another country’s industrial growth plan. If you’re wondering how politics can be studied, the International Foundation Year at Surrey University is a great place to start. You’ll be introduced to the basic concepts and how these transfer to real world issues.
Enhancing communication skills
Being able to articulate your thoughts and ideas is another life skill that a degree in Politics will equip you with. Wish you could have better conversations about important issues with your friend or parents? This degree will help you build on your debating abilities as well as honing other communication skills such as writing clear policy briefs and public speaking.
Global perspective on issues
Politics affects the entire world and learning about it will help you understand how different nations interact with each other and tackle global issues such as climate change and human rights. Having a global perspective will help you understand wider issues and is important for a career in, for example, diplomacy.
Impacting social change
Are you in awe of some of the people you see online advocating for issues such as human rights and global education? If you admire the influence of Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg and wish you could make a similar difference to the world, a degree in Politics is a great starting point. A solid understanding of politics will give you the tools to understand the system and work towards change. The International Foundation Year at the University of Surrey includes a module on Sustainable Innovation for Emerging Futures, in which you’ll learn how to tackle key global sustainability issues in areas including healthcare, technology and food.
Careers in politics
A degree in Politics can open the door to a wide range of jobs, depending on your strengths and area of interest. Here are some career paths that you could take with this degree:
- Political analyst: Analyses political systems, policies, and trends to provide insights for governments, organisations, or media outlets such as the BBC.
- Legislative aide: For example, you could be an aide to a member of Parliament, researching issues, drafting legislation, and supporting administrative duties.
- Public policy consultant: Advises governments and businesses such as Deloitte on policy decisions.
- Lobbyist: Represents organisations such as Greenpeace to influence political decisions in favour of their causes.
- Campaign manager: Leads political campaigns, for example for a local mayoral candidate, organising events, managing staff, and developing strategies.
- Diplomat: Works for an organisation such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and acts as its representative in international negotiations to maintain diplomatic relations.
- Political journalist: Reports on political events, providing insight and analysis to the public for channels such as CNN, Sky, etc.
Study politics at the University of Surrey
The politics department at the University of Surrey ranked 1st for student experience in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025, and the University as a whole ranked 4th in the UK for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2023.
If you are interested in pursuing further studies in Politics but feel that your English skills need improvement before starting a degree course here in the UK, the International Study Centre at the University of Surrey offers an excellent pathway programme. By choosing the International Foundation Year in Business, Economics, Law and Social Sciences, you will study core modules relating to your chosen degree and will also benefit from the strong support network available to help you settle into life in the UK and make new friends.
Before applying, check out the entry requirements, fees, and visa information to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria. A student advisor will be available to help with any questions you may have during the application process.
FAQs
What do we gain from the study of politics?
Studying politics helps us understand government systems, decision-making processes, and how policies affect societies. This degree will also help you build skills that are important not just for a career in politics but for life in general, such as critical thinking and communication.
Why is it important to study politics?
Politics affects everything in our lives, from the laws we have in place such as speed limits, to the public services we use every day, such as schools and hospitals. By studying politics you’ll learn how decisions are made and how societies function.
What is the importance of politics in society?
Politics is important because it affects how resources are shared and what voting power people have. Why do we need to study politics? Understanding politics helps you see how the world works and how you can make a difference.