Politics and Philosophy

Politics and Philosophy is one of the classic joint honours combinations in the humanities, and for good reason. The two disciplines share a preoccupation with fundamental questions about power, justice, knowledge, and the good life, but they approach those questions differently. Philosophy provides the tools of conceptual analysis and logical argument, while Politics brings empirical grounding in institutions, ideologies, and international relations.

Together they produce graduates who can think rigorously about the world and engage critically with the ideas that shape it.

At Sussex this three-year full-time degree is enriched by a range of structural options. A foundation year is available for students who need an additional year to build academic confidence and subject knowledge. A sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement are all part of the programme, allowing you to gain professional experience and international perspectives alongside your academic study.

The typical entry tariff is 120 UCAS points. The course at Sussex has a strong track record of engaging students with live questions in political theory, ethics, and global affairs, and the work placement element helps you connect your intellectual development to professional contexts before you graduate.

Graduates from Politics and Philosophy programmes enter careers in law, journalism, policy, the civil service, international organisations, NGOs, education, and the media. The combination of rigorous argumentation and political literacy is particularly well suited to careers that require persuading audiences, advising decision-makers, or navigating complex institutional environments. Many graduates also proceed to postgraduate study in political philosophy, international relations, law, or public policy, and this degree provides a strong foundation for graduate entry to the bar or to public affairs careers.