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BPolSci (Political Studies)

What does the programme entail?

Politics is a part of human existence, and social interactions invariably involve political relationships. Politics is essential for the creation of a just and humane way of life. Politics includes all aspects of contemporary society that directly or indirectly affect the state, as well as those aspects that have public significance. This programme provides an understanding of politics within state borders. It provides the knowledge and develops the skills necessary to analyse, compare and explain political events, and the impact of politics on society. Political studies take into account a variety of non-political or related influences that have an effect on politics. This programme provides a description of political facts, an explanation of how and why politics occurs, and a prescription of what should happen in the political world.

Core modules

Political science is the major subject and has to be taken up to the final year. Other core modules are drawn from international relations.

Elective modules

The elective modules supplement the understanding of politics. Options include philosophy, history, religious studies, psychology, sociology, and European and African languages, providing a measure of flexibility that allows students to concentrate on a specific area, such as African studies, security studies, political communication, studies of political policy and political philosophy.

Postgraduate studies

This programme allows students to pursue an honours degree in political science, or, depending on their choice of electives, in international relations. Following the successful completion of this programme, various options are available at master’s degree level, with the possibility of a future doctorate in political science.

Student Endoorsement Videos:

Mellissa Mlambo