Bachelor of Political Science
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Political Science is a full degree-level qualification running over 36 months online, with accelerated top-up entry routes available for holders of a LOU UK Higher Diploma in Political Science. Delivered entirely online through LOU's virtual learning environment, the degree provides rigorous, research-informed training in political theory, comparative politics, public policy, international governance and political economy at London academic standards. Graduates are prepared for strategic roles in government, international organisations, the third sector and public affairs across any jurisdiction worldwide.
Students develop advanced analytical writing, policy research and quantitative methods skills across the programme, culminating in an online dissertation that investigates a significant political science question of their choosing. Graduates of the Bachelor of Political Science are equipped for senior advisory, research and leadership positions in politically complex domestic and international environments.
Key Features
- Aligned with academic standards referenced by the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), United Nations bodies and the UK civil service competency framework
- Full degree-level coverage of political theory, comparative government, public policy analysis, international political economy and research methodology
- Live online lectures with political science academics and public affairs practitioners, plus recorded sessions available on demand
- Digital library access to political science journals, policy papers, government publications and international relations archives
- Online dissertation component providing original political research at final-year degree level
- Accessible via LOU's virtual learning environment to students from any political jurisdiction worldwide
- Top-up entry for holders of a LOU UK Higher Diploma in Political Science
What You Will Learn
- Evaluate comparative political systems, constitutional frameworks and democratic institutions using rigorous analytical methods
- Apply public policy analysis frameworks to evaluate and design policy interventions across social, economic and security domains
- Analyse international political economy, multilateral governance and trade policy at degree level
- Conduct original quantitative and qualitative political research using appropriate methodological frameworks
- Evaluate geopolitical risk and its impact on international business, diplomacy and development
- Develop advanced academic writing, argumentation and policy briefing skills for professional and academic contexts
- Assess the role of non-governmental organisations, international bodies and civil society in political processes
- Produce a final-year online dissertation investigating an original political science research question
Who This Course Is For
- Public affairs and government relations professionals seeking a full degree qualification for senior leadership roles
- UK Higher Diploma graduates in political science progressing to full degree-level study
- Graduates of other disciplines entering politics, policy analysis or international governance
- Civil society and NGO professionals seeking academic depth to complement practical experience
- International students worldwide seeking a London-standard political science degree that can be studied entirely online
Career Pathways
- Policy Analyst
- Diplomat
- Government Relations Manager
- Public Affairs Manager
- International Relations Officer
- UN Programme Officer
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
LOU's online career support service provides all Bachelor graduates with virtual CV workshops, LinkedIn profile coaching, online interview preparation and connections to employers and organisations across government, international development and the public sector.
Entry Requirements
- A-Levels (BBC or above) or IB (26+ points) or equivalent overseas qualifications
- A completed UK Higher Diploma or Advanced Diploma for top-up routes
- IELTS 6.0 overall (no band under 5.5) or equivalent English proficiency
- Personal statement outlining online learning goals and career objectives
- Two academic or professional references
Why Study at LOU
LOU — London Online University — is an online-first division of Harold International College of London, providing political science students worldwide with access to London academic standards through LOU's virtual learning environment. Every module on the Bachelor of Political Science is delivered via live online lectures or recorded sessions available on demand, enabling students to study from anywhere in the world and engage with political analysis that is directly relevant to their own national and international contexts.
Aligned with international academic standards referenced by Chatham House and the United Nations, the degree includes digital library access, online dissertation supervision, virtual tutorial sessions and LOU's dedicated online career support service to produce graduates equipped for influential roles in political, diplomatic and public affairs careers worldwide.
Apply for Bachelor of Political Science
The Bachelor of Political Science is delivered entirely online, enabling students and professionals across every jurisdiction to earn a London-standard degree in political science without relocating to the UK. Apply for your LOU online Bachelor degree and study from anywhere in the world. Enrol Now
