Politics is concerned with power and decision making in society. It examines both the practical workings of politics and political ideas. Stage 1 involves a wide range of approaches. For instance, we look at the political systems of specific countries and compare and contrast different forms of government. We consider alternative ways of thinking about particular ideas (democracy, freedom and equality as seen by Aristotle, Mills and Marx). We look at the transition in European politics from the context of international relations between states to the emergence of a new level of governance in the EU at present.

If you have a general interest in current affairs and enjoy reading, essay writing and discussion, Politics may suit you very well. Studying Politics will help you to understand how our society works and you will develop skills in analysing written material of all kinds, developing an argument and expressing yourself clearly in writing.

Graduates have been successful in journalism and broadcasting as well as in the civil service in Ireland and the EU. Politics is also a good preparation for teaching, law and business.

In order to progress to Stage Two, students must have passed both Level 1 core modules: Foundations of Contemporary Politics (POL10160) and Foundation of Political Theory & International Relations (INRL10010) offered in the Politics structure at Stage One.