BA (Hons) Politics and Philosophy Bachelor's degree at the University of Nottingham
BA (Hons) Politics and Philosophy at University of Nottingham combines rigorous study of political theory, philosophical inquiry, and research methods.
About this course
Our BA Politics and Philosophy degree gives you the chance to explore new ideas, challenge what you think you know and engage with the political and ethical issues that define modern life. From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Politics and Philosophy is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at the University of Nottingham. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Politics graduates from this provider, 88% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 62% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £30,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Philosophy & Religion, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Moderate evidence Published sample: 55; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 88% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 96% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year one 14 modules
- Introduction to Comparative PoliticsCore
Module details
Discover the differences and similarities between modern democratic states. This module covers everything from political systems and constitutions to voting behaviour and the challenges facing democracies today. You'll learn to compare political systems and understand the dynamics of democratic and authoritarian regimes.
- Introduction to Political TheoryCore
Module details
Dive into the world of political thought with this module. Explore the ideas of famous political thinkers and see how their concepts shape today's politics. You'll discuss key political ideas and historical events, making connections between past and present.
- Introduction to Practical PhilosophyCore
Module details
This module offers an introduction to key topics in practical philosophy. You'll explore areas such as moral, political, and social philosophy. Rather than just learning about the views of specific philosophers, you'll actively engage with the problems and puzzles these areas present. The module encourages you to see the connections between different philosophical areas, reflecting on their methodological similarities and differences. You'll develop diverse approaches to key positions in practic
- Introduction to Theoretical PhilosophyCore
Module details
This module offers an engaging introduction to key topics in theoretical philosophy, laying the groundwork for further study. You'll explore areas such as logic, metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of mind. Rather than just learning about the views of specific philosophers, you'll actively engage with the problems and puzzles these areas present. The module encourages you to see the connections between different philosophical areas, reflecting on their methodological similarities and diffe
- Political Theory in PracticeCore
Module details
Engage with key political concepts like democracy, legitimacy and freedom. This module challenges you to think critically about these ideas and their implications for real-world politics. You'll develop analytical skills and learn to build strong, justified arguments.
- Being Human AOptional
Module details
This module delves into how both philosophers and non-philosophers have understood human nature and its role in moral, political, and broader philosophical debates. You'll explore a range of topics, including: Early religious and secular views of human nature and their implications for life, organisation, purpose, and morality Modern views of human nature, including the impact of evolutionary theory and psychology. Human nature as an ideological construct The challenge of deriving human values f
- Being Human BOptional
Module details
This module delves into how philosophers have tackled questions about the meaning and purpose of life. You'll explore whether life is meaningful and, if so, what makes it so. Topics may vary each year but typically include: Religious and secular approaches to the meaning of life The difference between the meaning of life and meaning in life Nihilism and its implications Objective versus subjective approaches to meaning How a meaningful life relates to wellbeing, education, work, recreation, and
- Gender, Justice and Society: An Introduction to Political PhilosophyOptional
Module details
This module aims to introduce you to some key concepts and debates in political philosophy in general, and feminist philosophy in particular. The module will also introduce you to the idea of philosophical methodology and encourage you to think critically about what philosophy is, how philosophy is done, who is conceived of as doing philosophy, and the relationship between these things.
- Introduction to Philosophical TraditionsOptional
Module details
This module delves into how different cultures and traditions tackle philosophical problems and themes. You'll explore a variety of topics, which may change each year, such as the nature of reality, human flourishing, the environment, beauty, tradition, wisdom, optimism, religion, mind and reason, social order, and principles for co-existence. The course introduces and compares a wide range of philosophical traditions and theories, considering their historical and cultural contexts. You'll make
- Metaphysics, Science, and LanguageOptional10 credits
Module details
Come and explore some fundamental thinking about the world around us and our knowledge of it. You'll look at questions such as: metaphysics – how should we think about the identity of things over time and through change? What does your personal identity over time consist in? philosophy of science – is science the guide to all of reality? Is there a scientific method? philosophy of language – what is truth? Is truth relative? Does language create reality? An ideal introduction to metaphysics, epi
- Philosophy of ReligionsOptional10 credits
Module details
All religions have a distinctive philosophical framework. Together we'll look at some of the common concerns such as: the variety of conceptions of ultimate reality goals for the spiritual life the nature of religious experience the relations of religion and morality explanations of suffering and evil human nature and continuing existence after death As there is such a range of beliefs we'll also look at the problems of religious diversity. Some of the sources we draw on might include (but is no
- Arts Engaged in HealthOptional10 credits
Module details
How can the arts help us think about health and cope with illness? What can the arts contribute to healthcare practice and policy? You will explore big questions like these, looking at how the arts can engage with the crucial issues in health today and build a better vision of health for the future. We will cover major themes including: Representing health - look critically at representations of good and poor health, found in politics, religion, art, film, literature, and philosophy. Mental heal
- Data, Culture and SocietyOptional10 credits
Module details
We live in a data-driven society. Information is used for everything from predicting our shopping habits, to understanding global weather patterns, and has radically changed our world. From the development of Artificial Intelligence to robotics and the use of 'big data', the capture and use of information is essential in modern society. To make sure these developments help solve problems, and are not used for harm, we need the arts and humanities to set boundaries and ask questions. You will: Ex
- Digital Projects: Data and TextOptional
Module details
The digitisation of records and texts has revolutionised academic study. The ability to efficiently and confidently use data is a valuable skill for both your course and future career. On this module, you will: Learn the basics of data and 'text mining' (using search terms to explore large amounts of information) Develop your skills and apply them to case studies See how your work can highlight issues and solutions.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This degree gives you the chance to explore new ideas, challenge what you think you know and engage with the political and ethical issues that define modern life. A course like this normally moves from foundations to specialist options. You'll usually begin with core areas: introduction to philosophy covering knowledge, mind and reality; ethics including moral theories and their application; and logic and critical reasoning for evaluating arguments. In your second year, you'll typically study the history of philosophy from ancient to modern thinkers, then move into areas such as philosophy of mind, religion, political philosophy or consciousness and metaphysics. By your final year, you'll usually pursue specialist options, such as metaethics, philosophy of science, religion and theology, or aesthetics, engage with current philosophical research through advanced seminars, and complete a sustained independent philosophical argument in your dissertation.
Who it's for
This course suits students with strong analytical abilities and genuine curiosity about how societies are organised and how knowledge is justified. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent qualifications (91% of recent entrants); the typical UCAS tariff band among accepted students was 112–127 points. You should be prepared for sustained independent study, critical reading, and written argument. The course appeals to those considering careers in law, public policy, civil service, education, journalism, or further academic study.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 85% of Philosophy & Religion graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating. Of those working, 60% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. Starting salaries nationally range from £23,500 to £30,000 at 15 months post-graduation; after five years, graduates earn between £25,500 and £36,000. These figures reflect national outcomes data and are not university-specific guarantees. Your degree opens pathways into such fields as public administration, law, education, research, and the civil service.
University & format
This degree is studied full-time over 3 years at the University of Nottingham, a public Russell Group university founded in 1881. Instruction is in English. As a recognised UK degree-awarding body, the degree is nationally recognised. The university holds Silver for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023 and is.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
The provider publishes contextual-offer information. Eligibility and any reduced offer are applicant-specific.
Work placement. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 91% |
| another higher-education qualification | 4% |
| a Baccalaureate | 4% |
| a previous degree | 1% |
| an Access course | 1% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code VL52). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at University of Nottingham →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Philosophy & Religion graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £30,000 | £26,000 – £35,000 | 55 |
| 3 years after | £29,500 | £25,000 – £35,500 | 260 |
| 5 years after | £39,500 | £30,500 – £50,500 | 275 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 55; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in philosophy & religion · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Philosophy & Religion nationally
National figures for Philosophy & Religion graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 55; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Philosophy & Religion courses at the same study level.
Compared with 497 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Business and public service associate professionalsSOC 2020 35 · 21% of published destinations · ASHE median £38,760
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 13% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
- Finance ProfessionalsSOC 2020 242 · 12% of published destinations · ASHE median £47,173
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 270; response rate: 51%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Philosophy & Religion graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Philosophy & Religion graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Schools & universities
- Think tanks
- Charities & NGOs
- Civil service
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Philosophy & Religion graduates.
Philosophy AdjunctCommonwealth Of VirginiaTeaching Fellow in Ethics and Political Philosophy - DurhamDurham UniversityIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
88% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £30,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.9 out of 10: NSS 84.4% · in work or study 88% · continued 96%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
University of Nottingham
Historical, philosophical and religious studies across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around The University of Nottingham
844 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Philosophy & Religion right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to University of Nottingham from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £39,400 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check University of Nottingham’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with University of Nottingham and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at University of Nottingham
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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