Well, this has to be the most interesting time since WWII to consider studying politics. And it’s not just Brexit — just when a lot of people are despairing of party politics, the fact is that young people are engaging more and more with local, national and global issues and that social media has changed the whole dynamic of politics.
Sadly, it appears that we're in a divided, even fractured, United Kingdom at the moment. Many people feel they don’t have a party that they believe in, but all the more reason to engage in what ultimately affects you, your family and society as a whole. The whole world even!
I always find it strange when people say, “I’m not interested in politics” or, “All politicians lie”. Politics affects all of us daily, so why not be part of it? After all, a degree in politics prepares students for many forms of employment, as well as further study. You'll gain many analytical and practical skills, including the ability to conduct research, oral and written communication and IT, all of which are invaluable in today's employment market.
Of course, depending on what your future intentions are, there are going to be differing expectations. Entry requirements for politics degrees will vary, with some universities identifying subjects they recommend students to study before applying for a politics degree. Usually, these will be humanities and social science subjects such as economics, geography, history, modern languages, philosophy and sociology. It might be a good idea to consider taking up political lessons. Political science is a complex study, and if you've decided to obtain a diploma, you should probably learn more about economics, sociology, history, philosophy, and more.
So, what can you do with a politics degree? Well, local politics is a good start, but you may choose a career such as researching for a pressure group. If you want to head for the government, however, there are many roles to start you on your political path: research officer, political assistant, public, political journalist, member of the civil service, diplomatic service officer, public affairs consultant — or yes, a Member of Parliament!
Then, of course, there’s political science — the study of government, public policies and political behaviour. As a political science graduate, you'll hone the writing, communications, analytical and computer skills that are critical to any government department or university. The beauty of studying politics is not just the immediate issue of what’s going on with contemporary or party politics. It’s the history, the language, the philosophies, the economics… the passion.