The London School of Economics and Political Science is a place of genuine intellectual excitement and cutting-edge research, employing many of the world's leading experts in their fields and attracting the very best students from across the globe.
The General Course offers you a unique opportunity to experience all that LSE and the great city of London have to offer, whilst undertaking a year of fully integrated undergraduate study at the world's leading dedicated social science institution.
LSE provides you with an environment in which you can study your chosen courses in depth, whilst becoming fully involved in all aspects of School life. Furthermore, not only will you be an LSE student but upon completion of your year you'll become an LSE alumnus, thus beginning what we hope will be a life-long association with the School.
We're confident that your time at LSE will be both enjoyable and rewarding, providing you with knowledge and experience that will prove hugely beneficial in both your future academic and professional careers. If you think you'd enjoy this academically rigorous and culturally rich programme, we look forward to receiving your application.
15 Reasons to apply for the General Course
If you are considering whether or not to apply to the General Course, here are some reasons that we hope will help you decide:
1. The world's leading dedicated social science institution
LSE consistently receives the highest ratings available for the quality of its teaching and research. It is also home to the world's largest social science library, the British Library of Political and Economic Science.
2. Scholarships worth £7,000
Three LSE General Course Scholarships worth £7,000 each are available to all accepted students.
3. Over 250 courses to choose from
Covering all the main social science disciplines and taught along side degree-seeking students in a mixture of lectures and small classes.
4. Support of the Associate Dean for the General Course
Available throughout your stay at the School to deal with any problems, queries or issues you might have. You will also have a departmental tutor and a student mentor.
5. Teaching delivered by leading academics
LSE's academics are at the cutting edge of the social sciences, influencing opinion and helping shape society. They are frequently called upon to advise governments and international organisations and provide an education grounded in the real world.
6. Elite and intellectual student body
High calibre students selected for their academic ability who share your enthusiasm for the subject matter and motivation to learn.
7. Public lectures delivered by eminent outside speakers
An extensive programme of events attracting leading individuals from all walks of life, including in the last year: Joseph Stiglitz, Janet Napolitano, Helen Clark and Javier Solana.
8. International and cosmopolitan environment
LSE students are drawn from over 140 different countries and 65 per cent of all those at the School come from outside the UK. 40 per cent of the academic staff originate from outside
the UK.
9. Guaranteed university accommodation
All applicants offered a place on the General Course are guaranteed a room in university housing.
10. Central London location
The School is on the doorstep of the City of London, Westminster and Covent Garden; providing great social and academic resources.
11. General Course Social Calendar
UK and European excursions offered at substantial discounts.General Course students also enjoy a Welcome Party and bespoke orientation events.
12. Residential visit to Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park
An introduction to both the UK and your fellow General Course students in the relaxed surroundings of an English country house.
13. Over 150 student clubs and societies
Covering a wide variety of interests including politics, culture, academia, sports, hobbies and food and drink. Complemented by the activities of the University of London Union.
14. Work in London
Automatic entitlement to work on or off campus up to 20 hours each week of the academic term, and more in vacation times.
15. Global reputation for excellence
Graduate schools and employers around the world will recognise and respect the LSE name on your CV. You'll also be part of an impressive global alumni network ensuring you maintain a lifelong connection with the School.
