Your undergraduate learning experience

At undergraduate level, as well as traditional single honours programmes where you study one subject in depth, you can choose from a range of joint honours programmes, combining two subjects that you are passionate about. We offer major/minor programmes (where you study one subject area in more depth than the other), and a number of triple honours degrees, such as Policy, Economics and Politics; Philosophy, Politics and Law; and Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE).

We also offer programmes that give you the chance to build a personalised programme of study based on your interests across areas, including Liberal Arts, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Arts and Sciences.

Many of our programmes also offer chances to study abroad or with a year in industry, sometimes called a professional placement year. Some also offer an intercalated year – this is where you study outside of your main degree area to pursue an additional year in a different subject, building broader skills in topics such as sustainability, civic leadership or computer science. 

Through this pathway, in year one you’ll have instant access to our ‘My Attributes’ platform, our online skills and portfolio tracker, so that you can monitor your ongoing personal development throughout your time at university. Your first year focuses on developing essential academic study skills to help you get the most out of your course, and on intellectual curiosity and the joy of learning. 

In year two, Ad Alta modules focus on innovation, industry and community, and you’ll work together with other students to develop responses to challenges faced by organisations and industries locally and globally. This focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and being able to practically apply your subject knowledge, set you up for your final year. 

In your final year, you’ll complete a dissertation, research essay or design project, and will continue to build on your skills through the Birmingham Award. Endorsed by graduate employers, this Award recognises and rewards your achievements beyond your programme and recognises the vast array of skills developed through extra-curricular activities which you can use as you move beyond your degree. The Birmingham Award includes over 200 activities on and off-campus such as part-time work, volunteering, fundraising, sports, caring commitments, running clubs and societies, and much more.