Enter OTP
If you’re curious about how governments make decisions, how political ideas take shape, and how power works both locally and globally — Dundee’s Politics MA (Hons) is designed for you. You’ll explore everything from public policy and elections to international relations and human rights, all while developing the analytical and communication skills that employers value most.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
You’ll start by building a foundation in political systems and policy-making through modules like Politics and Public Policy, which introduces key political concepts and the workings of government in the UK. Alongside, you’ll explore optional subjects such as history, economics, or psychology to understand politics in a wider social context.
Year 2:
You’ll move into deeper analysis through modules like Comparative Politics, studying how different countries — from the US to Russia — govern, legislate, and solve global challenges. This year helps you sharpen your research and debating skills, preparing you for more advanced topics ahead.
Years 3 & 4:
In your final years, you’ll focus on themes that inspire you — such as Scottish Politics and Policy, Environmental Politics, Nationalism, or Human Rights. You’ll also complete a dissertation, conducting your own research on a political issue that genuinely matters to you. By the end, you’ll have gained the confidence to think critically, argue persuasively, and understand politics on a global scale.
Focus Areas
British politics | International relations | Policy analysis | Human rights | Nationalism | Environmental politics
Learning Outcomes
Critical thinking | Research and data interpretation | Persuasive communication | Policy evaluation | Global awareness
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
While not tied to a specific accrediting body, the program develops core competencies sought after in government, policy think-tanks, NGOs, journalism, and international organizations.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Dundee is ranked joint 2nd in Scotland for graduate prospects in Politics.
90% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation.
The University of Dundee is ranked in the Top 350 globally (THE World University Rankings 2026).
At Dundee, studying Politics goes far beyond the classroom. You’ll be encouraged to apply your knowledge to the real world — analysing live political issues, developing hands-on research skills, and even gaining professional experience through internships and community engagement. You’ll learn in small, discussion-based classes within the Scrymgeour Building, where approachable lecturers and interactive seminars make every debate feel alive.
To make your learning practical and immersive, the course integrates real experiences and tools that prepare you for life after university:
Politics Internship Module (20 credits): Gain hands-on experience by working with local councils, NGOs, or policy organisations — perfect for building your CV and professional network.
Student Tutoring Programme: Take part in peer tutoring or classroom support, developing confidence in public speaking and communication.
Digital Learning Platforms: Use MyDundee (Blackboard Ultra) and Turnitin for online lectures, interactive discussions, and assignment feedback — essential tools for modern political research.
Politics Library Resources: Access specialised political science collections, journals, and research databases through Dundee’s Main Library and Politics LibGuide.
Academic Skills Centre: Improve your writing, analytical, and presentation skills with tailored workshops that help you succeed in coursework and research.
Career Development Support: The University’s Careers Service connects students to internships, volunteer projects, and policy-focused roles within Scotland’s civic and political community.
These experiences ensure you don’t just learn about politics — you live it, debate it, and experience it in action.
A Politics degree from Dundee opens doors to a wide range of meaningful careers. Whether you dream of shaping government policy, working for an international NGO, or leading community initiatives, this course equips you with the analytical, communication, and leadership skills that employers truly value. Graduates have gone on to become policy officers, political researchers, parliamentary assistants, public affairs consultants, and NGO coordinators — each playing a role in making a real impact.
You’ll also benefit from Dundee’s strong employability ecosystem and global reputation for student success:
Personalised career support: The University’s Careers Service offers one-to-one guidance, CV reviews, mock interviews, and direct employer connections through its JobShop, which lists thousands of graduate roles annually.
Global employability strength: Dundee ranks Top in Scotland and 14th in the UK for graduates entering highly skilled employment — over 87% secure professional roles shortly after graduation.
Employer networking: Meet leading organisations at career fairs and employer events hosted on campus throughout the year.
Graduate outcomes: Politics graduates typically earn around £29,000 within 15 months of graduation, reflecting strong demand for Dundee’s analytical and globally aware graduates.
Lifelong support: Alumni enjoy lifetime access to the Careers Service, so you can continue receiving guidance even after you graduate.
Real connections: Dundee’s Politics department maintains strong relationships with civic organisations, NGOs, and public bodies, helping you transition seamlessly from university to professional life.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, many students continue to postgraduate studies such as an MSc in International Relations, Public Policy, Human Rights, or Development Studies. Others go on to pursue PhD research or professional degrees in law, governance, or administration, taking the critical thinking and analytical foundations built at Dundee to the next level.
IB 28 points, including 5, 5, 4 at higher levelA-level CCCAmerican Curriculum High School Diploma with a GPA of 3.0+, plus SAT 1200+, ACT 26+, or AP scores of 3+ in relevant subjects.Indian Curriculum CBSE/ISC/XII Standard 65% overall in the CBSE, ISC or leading state board XII Standard examsIELTS: Overall 6.0 with 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in all other components.TOEFL iBT: Overall 78 with minimum 17 in Writing and 16 in other components.Policy Officer Parliamentary Assistant / Researcher Public Affairs Consultant NGO or Charity Project Coordinator Communications or Campaigns Officer
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University of Dundee
