Comparative Politics of the UK and USA

Overview

Academic Lead: Dr Richard Johnson 

Syllabus: SUM502H: Comparative Politics of the UK and the USA [PDF]

This course will provide an introduction to the comparative politics of the US and the UK.  Attention will be given to similarities as well as differences, and the course will use comparative analysis to throw light on the political systems in both countries.  Occasional reference will be made to other countries. The course will be structured around four themes: ideologies and foundations, institutions, political actors, and policy.

Course content is subject to change.

Course aims

The course aims to:

• understand the political systems of the United States and United Kingdom
• compare systematically across the political systems of the United States and United Kingdom
• assess the strengths and weaknesses of different political institutions
• contextualise politics according to different political cultures, histories, and patterns of practice
• explain contemporary politics in light of structural features of political systems

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, external visits, and talks by invited speakers and lecturers. 

Learning outcomes

You will:

• understand the political systems of the UK and USA
• build a contextual picture of the political cultures of the US and UK
• formulate mechanisms for comparing and assessing differing political systems

You will be able to:

• apply the comparative method to different cases and understand the value of comparative case study research design
• evaluate strengths and weaknesses of different political institutions
• read high quality academic writing and engage critically with the scholarly debate
• think critically and independently
• evaluate the sources of information and data
• communicate effectively

Fees

Additional costs 

All reading material will be provided online, so it is not necessary to purchase any books.

For course and housing fees visit our finance webpage

Entry requirements

We welcome Summer School students from around the world. We accept a range of qualifications

How to apply

Have a question? Get in touch - one of the team will be happy to help!

Applications close 26 May 2025