On this degree course, you’ll have the opportunity to explore political topics going beyond the UK and Europe, covering North America, South Asia, China, Japan or the emerging global powers. You will acquire the ability to analyse and understand political problems, socio-cultural change and political institutions and structures.

On the economics side, you’ll develop an ability to investigate a range of political and economic issues, and gain a sound understanding of how economic and political issues are often closely interrelated in today’s globalised mass society. You’ll become familiar with a range of tools needed to solve a variety of complex economic problems, and develop research and analytical skills, equipping you with highly relevant, adaptable skills that are transferable across whatever career path you choose.

An integrated placement year offers the chance to apply your learning in a work placement in the UK or overseas. Whether you choose to focus on politics or economics, Aston’s strong links with employers around the world mean you will have a wide range of options to boost your employability and explore the world of work. Unlike some other universities, the placement year at Aston is not a ‘bolt-on’ year, it is an integral part of your degree and in your second year we’ll make sure you’re ready to get the most from this opportunity. You'll receive plenty of help and advice in finding your placement and specialist support and supervision from the University during your placement.

You will also have the opportunity to produce a substantial piece of individual work in the form of a dissertation on an agreed topic of your choice.

Politics and Economics graduates go on to a range of professions with recent roles including Trade Capture Analyst, Technology Consulting Graduate Scheme, Graduate Tax Scheme, Transfer Pricing Analyst, Account Manager, Analyst, Business analyst, Conflict and Stabilisation Lessons Team, Corporate Banking Trainee, Corporate Engagement Executive, Corporate Finance Intern, Graduate Intern, Public Policy and Strategic Relationships Intern.

Potential employers include Morgan Stanley, the Department for International Development, HSBC, Bosch, Barclays Investment Bank, KPMG, HMRC, Ernst & Young, the Ministry of Defence, the United Nations Economic Commission, IBM, Capgemini, Virgin Active, Hays, British Gas, the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), Interserve, Airbus, Solihull Care Housing Association and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Politics at Aston is ranked 6th in the UK for the percentage of graduates in employment or further study, five years after graduating (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2020).

Economics at Aston is ranked 5th in the UK for 'career prospects' (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2020), making them some of the most employable graduates in the UK.

Employed Aston business/economics graduates earn £11,000 (40 per cent) more than the UK average, five years after graduating (Longitudinal Education Outcomes, 2020).