Politics (A-level)

This well-established course looks at issues in the news and applies these to basic ideas of democracy in the UK and the way the UK is governed, comparing them with the USA.  It also examines some of the political ideologies and political ideological ideas behind our contemporary political system, drawing upon historical events.

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students will enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and to make positive progress in their first year of study.

Component 1: Government and Politics of the UK and Component 2: Government and Politics of the USA and Comparative Politics

• Democracy
• Pressure Groups
• Political and Ideological Ideas
• Elections
• Parliament/Congress
• The Prime Minister and Cabinet/Executive
• The Constitution
• The Judiciary
• Europe
• Digital Democracy

Component 3: Political Ideologies

• Conservatism
• Liberalism
• Socialism
• Ecologism (this is negotiable and subject to change)

We also have visits and talks by prominent politicians.

This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.

It is advisable to look at AS Politics by Andrew Heywood (green 5th edition, 2015), although newer material is set for release.

It is also useful to look at Political Ideologies and Introduction to US Politics by Andrew Heywood and Anthony Bennett and the book US Government and Politics.

At this stage several new publications are due for imminent publishing and a textbook for each component will be recommended in class.

Access to the Internet on a smart phone or tablet is also useful – but not compulsory – for Components 1 and 2 to enable additional reading.

Assessment is 100% by three essay-based examinations at the end of Year 2. There is no coursework or project element.

Careers 

• Law – barrister or solicitor
• Surveying – chartered surveying, land economy, general practice
• Military/naval roles
• Party political work
• Lobbying
• Banking and financial analysis
• Pressure group work
• Marketing/PR
• Teaching
• Lecturing
• Civil Service

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk