Course Title: Advanced GCE in Politics
Exam Board: AQA
Subject-specific Entry Criteria: You do not need to have studied Politics at GCSE to study the subject at A Level. However, you will need to have achieved a Grade 7 in a relevant Humanities subject at GCSE and have a genuine interest in politics and current affairs.

Course Overview

Unit 1: Government and politics of the UK

Government and politics of the UK is divided into ten sections and students will explore key themes such as:

  • The nature and sources of the British Constitution
  • The structure and role of Parliament
  • The Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Devolution
  • Elections and Referendums
  • Political Parties
  • The European Union

This encourages students to immerse themselves into understanding how current legislation and action is impacted by the key roles in politics.

Unit 2: Government and politics of the USA

Government and politics of the USA is divided into eight sections. Each has a particular focus but their interrelationships must be understood to appreciate the complexities of the system. Key focus includes:

  • Congress
  • The Presidency
  • The Judicial
  • The electoral process and direct democracy
  • Political Parties
  • Pressure groups
  • Civil Rights

Unit 3: Political ideas

Students will focus on the traditional ideas of liberalism, socialism and conservatism, before studying an alternative view, such as feminism or anarchy.

There is no coursework in Politics. Instead, there are three exams:

Paper 1: Government and politics of the UK

  • 2 hour written exam
  • 33.3% of A Level

Paper 2: Government and politics of the USA

  • 2 hour written exam
  • 33.3% of A Level

Paper 3: Political ideas

  • 2 hour written exam
  • 33.3% of A Level

An A Level in Politics compliments the A Level in History as it deepens understanding of the working of government for Paper 2 Britain. In future studies, Politics is a highly sought after A Level at university for History, Law, International Relations and further political study.

Politics is a fantastic subject for demonstrating to employers an ability to handle and interpret a high volume of information and come to clear conclusions. This is a valuable skill in many private sector careers such as Law, Finance or Business. Equally, the knowledge gained in the course is useful for careers in local and national government, the Civil Service, public relations and charities.

You will need to have a passion for the subject and an enthusiasm to stay on top of current debate. In addition to this, you will have a habit of additional study outside of the classroom.