Pre University Honours Programme: Key Topics in Political Science

About

This online course offers a dynamic introduction to political science, combining the flexibility of self-paced learning with the energy of live, interactive seminars. Designed for students preparing for university, the programme explores key political themes through expert-led sessions and peer discussion. Participants will engage with university-style lectures, readings, and assignments to develop a foundation in current political debates while building their academic reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

The lectures and all course materials are in English. Participants in the course become acquainted with learning methods that will give them an advantage as they continue their education at university.

The programme will cover the following themes:

- Introduction to Political Science
- International Relations
- Political Theory
- Political Economy
- Politics and Identity

Included in the course fees are access to:
- 5 live online seminars
- A minimum of 7 pre-recorded video lectures by our community of experts on the topics listed above.
- A selection of recommended readings and other materials accessible at the UvA digital library.
- The opportunity to complete short assignments to help you apply your knowledge.
- The programme combines the flexibility of pre-recorded lectures with the structure and engagement of live seminars. This format allows students to interact, collaborate, and reflect in real time. Participants will experience university-style learning through discussion-based seminars, readings, and assignments designed to foster critical thinking and comprehensive knowledge.

The course is structured into five modules, each lasting two weeks. A live seminar takes place at the end of each module, with Module 1 including an additional introductory session. We aim to schedule the live sessions outside of school hours.

All of our programmes make use of Canvas, the UvA's digital learning environment. This is where you'll find all course materials and where you can discuss these sand other topics with your fellow students.

Target group

For current high school students (must be between 15 - 19 years old) interested in politics, political science, and the social and behavioural sciences in general.

Course aim

To introduce current high school students to the field of Political Science through a series of pre-recorded lectures by our team of experts. Participants will also be introduced to a university style of lecturing and complete readings and assignments in order to gain a broad overview of the central issues being debated and discussed in political science today.

Fee info

Pre University Honours Programme: Key Topics in Political Science