Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

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Government and Politics

Government and Politics

Wooden architecture of the Welsh Assembly Government Senedd building.

Government and Politics

WJEC A-level Government and Politics

Government and Politics provides a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It encourages you to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, politics and to recognise its importance in your own life and to society as a whole.

LEARNERS:
ID: 1023

Is this course right for me?

You will require an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics as well as the ability to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate political information to form arguments and make judgments.

By the end of the course you will understand the influences and interests which have an impact on decisions in government and politics as well as an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of individuals and groups.

  • Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy
  • English Language/Literature/First Language Welsh grade B
  • Please check the AS Level Options Grid to see if this subject fits into your chosen programme
  • Each application is considered on individual merit
  • Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
  • Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting

As part of the course you will develop knowledge and understanding of contemporary political structures and issues within Wales and the United Kingdom (UK) alongside broader global political structures and issues. You will also gain an awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships between political ideas, institutions and processes.

Units to be studied will include:

  • Government in Wales and the United Kingdom – an introduction to how Wales and the UK is governed today
  • Living and participating in a democracy – an introduction to the concept of active citizenship; the rights and responsibilities of citizens, some of the ways in which citizens can participate in a democracy and the importance of citizen engagement
  • Political concepts and theories – involves the study of political theories and their application
  • Government and politics of the USA – introduces learners to the government and politics of the USA through an examination of three related themes: democracy in America, governance and participation

Learners also complete the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and are required to develop their essential skills (communication/numeracy and digital skills). Learners will also attend a weekly group tutorial.

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Click below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College

Learners are able to complete either the full qualification or certain units or elements through the medium of Welsh/bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Written examination

This course can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in a varied range of businesses including: Civil Service Fast Streamer, Government social research officer, Policy officer, Political risk analyst, Politician’s assistant, Public affairs consultant, Social researcher, Business development manager, Charity officer, Detective, Diplomatic service officer, Forensic accountant, Human resources officer, Local government officer, Market researcher, Marketing executive, Newspaper journalist, Public relations officer, Stockbroker.

If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.

  • Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
  • Text books - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most text books are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

  • No tuition fee
  • We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2024/25
  • You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page

Any costs above are approximate and may change.

Additional information

Level:

Mode:

Online Learning Elements?

Yes

Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.

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Last updated: 24/10/2023
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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