Information for first semester students

The introductory lecture for Political Science will take place on Tuesday, 6 October at 6.00 pm in Lecture Theatre 2 (H2). You will also find here a link to an overview of all introductory sessions from other departments for first-year students, as well as the slides from the Political Science lecture.

The transition from school to university presents a major challenge for many first-year students. Whilst school pupils are required to attend lessons and have to deal with homework and (oral) exams on a daily basis, university students enjoy a far greater degree of freedom and, consequently, a greater degree of personal responsibility. The Institute has therefore produced a guide to student self-management to help students navigate the start of their studies and to serve as a ‘handbook’ for their future academic journey. It provides guidance and plenty of practical tips on how to organise your political science studies in such a way as to ensure academic success without becoming overwhelmed.

On the ‘General Information and Advice on Studies’ page, you will find numerous fact sheets, information leaflets and all relevant examination and study regulations. All first-year students are strongly advised to read through these materials thoroughly.

The course and lecture catalogue for the BA in Political Science and the MA in Democracy Studies can be found on the university platform SPUR. All lectures and seminars for these degree programmes are listed there. Registration for seminars (which takes place before the start of lectures) must also be completed via SPUR. The registration deadlines can be found via the link. First-year students will receive all the important information regarding registration during the introductory session.

The Department of Political Science comprises three chairs and two professorships, the holders of which also head the department. The chairs and professorships are staffed by numerous members of staff.