Here are some of the best and most popular joint honours combinations with Politics, depending on your interests and career goals. These degrees are offered at many top UK and international universities and can be tailored to academic strengths in humanities, social sciences, or even law and economics.
Politics and International Relations
- Why choose it? This is the classic combination. It offers a global perspective and is great for careers in diplomacy, international development, foreign policy, and think tanks.
- Ideal for: Students interested in global affairs, conflict, security, and international organisations (e.g., UN, EU, NGOs).
Politics and Economics
- Why choose it? Merges political theory with economic analysis—ideal for understanding how policy is shaped by financial systems and vice versa.
- Ideal for: Careers in public policy, civil service, finance, consultancy, or international institutions like the World Bank or IMF.
Politics and History
- Why choose it? Provides deep contextual understanding of political systems, revolutions, empires, and ideologies over time.
- Ideal for: Students interested in historical patterns of power, empire, nationalism, or human rights.
Politics and Philosophy (often PPE – Politics, Philosophy and Economics)
- Why choose it? Excellent for those interested in ethics, logic, and political theory. Oxford’s PPE is famously elite, but many unis offer variations.
- Ideal for: Careers in government, policy analysis, law, journalism, or academia.
Politics and Law
- Why choose it? Combines legal frameworks with political theory and institutions. A good stepping stone for a law conversion or legal career with political expertise.
- Ideal for: Those considering public law, human rights, civil service, or legal policy roles.
Politics and Sociology
- Why choose it? Analyses power, identity, inequality, and institutions through both a political and sociological lens.
- Ideal for: Social policy, NGOs, activism, research, or working in community organisations.
Politics and Development Studies / Global Studies
- Why choose it? Explores power and policy in the Global South, postcolonialism, aid, and international cooperation.
- Ideal for: International development careers, NGOs, humanitarian work, or migration and climate justice.
Politics and Geography
- Why choose it? Good for studying geopolitics, climate policy, urban governance, and migration.
- Ideal for: Roles in sustainability, planning, risk analysis, or environmental governance.
Politics and Modern Languages
- Why choose it? Combines language skills with political knowledge—great for diplomacy, EU roles, or working abroad.
- Ideal for: Foreign office careers, translation, journalism, or international business.
Politics and Media / Communication Studies
- Why choose it? Focuses on political messaging, journalism, and the role of media in shaping public opinion.
- Ideal for: Political communications, PR, campaigning, or media roles in think tanks or parties.