Level 3
Politics, A Level
Level 3
Politics, A Level
If you’re curious about how governments work and want to understand the ideas shaping the modern world, A Level Politics is your gateway. You’ll explore political systems, ideologies, and debates, developing the skills to think critically, evaluate arguments, and form informed opinions about the world around you.
Course Overview
Studying Politics at A Level gives you a unique opportunity to investigate the political beliefs, systems, and ideas that shape society. You will explore the UK political system, international politics, and the historical and contemporary ideas that have influenced political thought. This course develops your analytical, evaluative, and research skills, equipping you with abilities that are valuable in higher education, the workplace, and active citizenship.
At our Loxton Campus, you will benefit from a stimulating Sixth Form environment, with engaging classroom debates, high-quality resources, and opportunities to apply theory to real-world scenarios. You will participate in seminars, case studies, simulations, and research projects, supported by experienced teachers who bring both academic insight and real-world experience into the classroom.
By studying Politics with us, you will automatically join our Career Excellence Hub, gaining access to work experience, guest lectures, and networking opportunities that enhance your employability. In addition, our Tutor Learning Mentors will guide you in developing study strategies, preparing for exams, and supporting university or career applications.
Throughout the course, you will learn to critically assess political events, policies, and debates, honing your ability to analyse information, evaluate arguments, and form evidence-based opinions – skills that are essential for informed participation in democratic processes. Students also benefit from work experience opportunities in June of Year One and February of Year Two. We will support you in finding suitable placements or provide a week of college-based experiences aligned with your career goals.
Whether you are considering higher education in politics or related fields, or seeking employment opportunities, our tailored support ensures you are well prepared for university applications, job interviews, and future career success.
What will I study?
You will cover a range of topics designed to give you both depth and breadth in political understanding:
- Introduction to political ideologies and theories
- Comparative politics and government systems (UK and US focus)
- International relations and global politics
- Political philosophy and ethical debates
- Public policy analysis and evaluation
You will also have opportunities to visit the Houses of Parliament, engage with local politicians, and gain insight through relevant work experience.
Exciting Opportunities
You will automatically join our Career Excellence Hub and benefit from:
- Participation in debates, simulations, and political research projects
- Guest lectures from political professionals and industry experts
- Opportunities for work experience placements and political networking
- Trips to the Houses of Parliament and other relevant institutions to see politics in action
Where will I study?
Our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus is designed to simulate a university environment, featuring state-of-the-art specialist facilities, high-quality learning resources, and collaborative spaces that support focused and independent study.
How do AS and A Levels work?
You will normally study three or four A Levels over two years. In Year 1, you will work towards an AS qualification, which is completed at the end of the first year and provides a strong foundation before progressing to full A Level study in Year 2.
This structure offers flexibility – you may choose to study four subjects in Year 1 and take three into Year 2. AS Levels also carry UCAS points. You can find more details in our dedicated AS Level FAQs on the College website.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is through exams in the second year – testing your knowledge, understanding, and ability to analyse and evaluate political concepts.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English and maths.
What can I do after this course?
Politics A Level prepares you for a range of higher education and career pathways, including:
Career opportunities include:
- Journalism
- Public relations
- Law and legal services
- Finance and business analysis
- Media and communications
- Local or national government
- Political research or consultancy
University degrees in:
- Politics
- International Relations
- Law
- History
- Public Policy
You could progress to relevant degrees here at University Centre Weston, such as:
- BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
- Law LLB (Hons)
- BA (Hons) Public and Environmental Policy
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.
What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.
