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Politics and International Studies

(Certificate of Higher Education)

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Location:
Birkbeck Campus, Central London
Status:
Approved
Duration:
Two to four years part-time
Awarding body:
University of London

Course Overview

What are the main issues in politics and international relations today? This course allows you to develop an understanding of the nature of politics and government in contemporary societies.

You will compare and contrast the institutions and practices of government in different societies, and analyse different theories of politics and government. You will also address various international topics, learn about the processes that give rise to international conflict and the ways in which co-operation is promoted, and explore the impact of globalisation on political, economic and social life. Our Politics and International Studies Certificate of Higher Education will also teach you the skills to continue onto further study in politics and the social sciences.

More Highlights

  • We have built up a strong reputation over more than 50 years for the excellence of our teaching and the international significance of our research in politics.
  • Our courses are designed to encourage independent thinking and hone your argumentative, analytical and critical skills, while our teaching uniquely moves across the boundaries between subjects, encompassing, among others, economics, history and sociology.
  • Some of the world's most famous libraries are on our doorstep in Bloomsbury, central London, and you can walk down to Whitehall, where Parliament and the UK's most influential and important think-tanks and centres of political research and analysis are located. 

Teaching and Modules

Teaching

Lectures, discussions, seminars and oral presentations, use of visual material, and individual and group work.

Each module requires about eight additional hours of independent study per week, at home or in the library.

How will I be assessed?

100% coursework, which may include essays, presentations and take-home tests.

Entry Requirements

All modules are taught at university level, so you should be able to read, write and speak English fluently.

What are the visa requirements?

Please note that Birkbeck does not sponsor Student visas for Certificate of Higher Education courses.

This means that if you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency or a valid visa here, then you can only study a Certificate of Higher Education on a Standard Visitor visa for courses of less than six months’ duration.

For full information, read our visa information for international students page.

Fees

Fees are payable per module and vary depending on the course. Please view the Modules and teaching section and then click on the title of individual modules to see the fees for each module. The overall cost of the certificate will depend on the modules you choose.

Please note: Modular CertHE study is not eligible for student loan funding for study commencing January 2027 onwards.

Careers and employability

Our graduates go on to careers in:

  • local and national government
  • the diplomatic service
  • policy work
  • the voluntary sector
  • research
  • journalism.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

How to Apply

This is a modular enrolment certificate, so you will need to register onto individual modules (rather than onto the course itself). Please view the Modules and Teaching section and then click on the title of individual modules to see class dates and times and to register.