I’m a 2nd year student, studying a Bsc in Politics and Philosophy at LSE and I cannot recommend this programme highly enough. This degree is special because it allows you to study politics and philosophy side by side. As such, it provides the perfect solution to the problem I and many others have who are just as passionate about both and don’t want to drop either. I found the study of democracy/democratisation and public policy process the most intriguing topics studied in the politics courses in the 1st year. This has prompted me to select 2nd year courses that cover these two areas and as a result, I feel more engaged with politics studies than ever before.
My favourite topics from the philosophy courses were philosophy of space and time, democracy and scepticism. These topics are the ones I decided to pursue when selecting my 2nd year courses. In the 1st year, I did struggle slightly with Introduction to Logic, which is a compulsory half unit module (meaning it is only studied in the Autumn Term). Logic lends itself to a more mathematical way of looking at philosophy in my opinion. But despite my initial struggles, having now taken this course, I have a much clearer understanding of the importance of the logical structuring of arguments.
In the 2nd year, though, you are allowed me to pick more suitable courses. Philosophy, Morals and Politics was the standout course when it came to making my choices since it combines both aspects of my degree perfectly within the same course. Inspired by the philosophy of time covered in the 1st year, I now also chose to take Einstein for Everyone. This course even stood out to me prior to coming to LSE when looking at the courses available. I have always been fascinated by creationism, the big bang, the nature of space and particularly time travel which are all encapsulated within this course! Given that this is a very niche area of philosophy, it just goes to show there is something tailor-made for everyone. So, it’s worth looking out for specific courses that interest you before coming to LSE.
Spectacular course content aside, you receive abundant support at LSE. You are provided with an academic mentor who, along with class teachers and lecturers, can help with academic and personal concerns. You can arrange to meet class teachers and lecturers during their office hours via the LSE Student Hub or via email. My regret from 1st year is that I did not utilise office hours enough. I have since come to learn that it is actually a great way to make sure the essays you write are on the right lines before making those errors when submitting essays. LSE LIFE, the place where you go to learn how to excel in your academic studies, also arrange sessions like essay writing workshops, time management tips, revision techniques and so much more. University is very different to school and you may find, like I did, that essay and revision techniques that worked at school may not work anymore. So, I would implore all new students to make the most of LSE LIFE as well.
The policy process was always something that had always slightly intrigued me but the introduction to political science last year and more narrowly, the study of public policy analysis this year, has really drawn this out. This prompted me to take advantage of the LSE Careers services where I had a sit down with a career advisor to discuss the relevant steps that need to be taken to pursue a career in this aspect of politics.
LSE has great connections for a wide range of careers including politics. So, getting a summer internship/graduate role, which would be a hugely significant step towards this career, is made easier by being at LSE. Being in London, right near Westminster and the Houses of Parliament, you certainly cannot be in a better place to embark on a political career. If that isn’t enough, the worldwide reputation of LSE is second to none for political science. After all, LSE is number one in Europe for the study of social sciences and management and so looks very good to employers!
