Why it may be helpful to study politics before doing a degree in politics. Many students successfully pursue political science or related fields without having studied politics formally before. Here’s why:
Introductory Courses:
- University politics programs typically start with foundational courses designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds. These courses will cover key concepts and provide the necessary groundwork, so you’re not expected to have prior knowledge of the subject.
Transferable Skills:
- Skills developed in other A-level subjects (like history, economics, sociology, or English) are often transferable. Critical thinking, essay writing, and analysis are core components of many A-level subjects and are essential for studying politics.
Diverse Academic Backgrounds:
- Politics departments usually welcome students with a range of academic backgrounds, which can lead to more dynamic discussions. Your unique perspective, whether from studying different subjects, can enrich classroom debates and assignments.
Support Systems:
- Universities offer plenty of resources to help you adjust, including seminars, tutors, and academic support services. If you feel you’re missing knowledge, there are opportunities to catch up quickly.
Focus on Current Events:
- If you’ve followed current events or engaged in debates around social, political, or global issues, you already have some valuable knowledge that can be applied in your studies, even without formal A-level politics training.
University Teaching Style:
- University-level teaching often emphasizes independent learning and critical analysis, so even if you didn’t study politics at A-level, what matters is how well you engage with the material at university.
While studying A-level politics could give a slight head start in terms of familiarity with political theories and institutions, it’s by no means a prerequisite for success. Your enthusiasm for the subject, willingness to learn, and ability to think critically will play a much bigger role in your university experience.