Politics

You’ll develop the analytical and critical thinking skills you need to understand and engage with political systems, ideologies, and global issues — preparing you to influence change and contribute meaningfully to the political landscape.

Overview

Politics addresses the ways in which power, governance, ideologies, and public policies shape society and influence individual behavior. At Lisburn University, we explore how political systems operate — and sometimes fail — to create change in culture, law, economics, and every other realm in which people engage in governance and policy-making.

One day in class, your professor might present a political speech or debate from a leader or public figure. You and your classmates analyze, critique, and discuss that speech from different perspectives, such as its messaging, the ideologies behind it, the implications for society, the credibility of the speaker, and the broader political impact. Then you form your own political argument or response, supported by evidence and analysis.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates work and intern in a variety of roles across diverse fields — government, public policy, international relations, political campaigns, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), political consulting, lobbying, journalism, and think tanks. We’ve also had graduates pursue law school, advanced degrees in political science, public administration, international affairs, and social justice. Many have gone on to influence political processes, lead organizations, and advocate for change at the local, national, and global levels.

Program Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of how political ideologies, policies, and practices shape social structures, the distribution of power, and our roles as local and global citizens.

Be able to critically analyze political discourse, including speeches, debates, legislation, and media, to understand its impact on social relations, public opinion, and governance.

Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and challenges of political decision-making, democratic processes, and the role of citizens in advocating for justice, equality, and societal progress. Prepare to use this knowledge to actively engage in creating more inclusive, equitable, and democratic societies.

Programme

Semester 1	Credits	Number
Introduction to Political Science	4	POLS 101
Political Theory I	3	POLS 110
International Relations	3	POLS 120

Semester 2	Credits	Number
Comparative Politics	4	POLS 210
Political Economy	3	POLS 220
Research Methods in Political Science	3	POLS 230

Semester 3	Credits	Number
Political Theory II	4	POLS 310
Public Policy Analysis	3	POLS 320
Politics of Development	3	POLS 330

Semester 4	Credits	Number
Political Philosophy	4	POLS 410
International Organizations	3	POLS 420
Elective: Global Environmental Politics	3	POLS 430
Total for the entire period of study	40