Politics MA(SocSci)/LLB/MA

Studying Politics at Glasgow isn’t just about reading textbooks—it’s about living and experiencing the subject. From day one, you’ll take part in debates, workshops, and research activities that bring big political questions to life. If you choose the Politics with Quantitative Methods option, you’ll also gain hands-on skills in data analysis, research design, and even programming, preparing you to tackle real-world problems with confidence.

You’ll be supported by the School of Social & Political Sciences, which gives you access to modern facilities, specialist libraries, and an exciting programme of events. With Glasgow’s lively political culture on your doorstep, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect theory with practice.

Here are some of the practical ways you’ll learn and grow:

• Hands-on Research Training – If you take the quantitative pathway, you’ll complete dedicated courses in research planning, data collection, and analysis, giving you in-demand technical skills.

• Interactive Seminars & Workshops – Small-group discussions, guest lectures, and academic workshops help you test ideas and learn from experts.

• Specialist Facilities – The Adam Smith Building offers computing labs tailored for social science students, perfect for projects and data work.

• World-class Libraries – Glasgow’s main library has one of the best political science collections in the UK, plus archives and resources like the European Documentation Centre.

• Research Centres – You’ll benefit from the School’s active research culture, with centres like the Urban Big Data Centre and Centre for Russian, Central & Eastern European Studies regularly hosting events and projects.

• Study Abroad Opportunities – You’ll have the chance to study in another country, adding an international dimension to your degree.

• Learning from Research-active Staff – Every lecture and seminar is informed by current research, so you’re always engaging with the most up-to-date thinking.

A Politics degree from Glasgow sets you up for a wide range of exciting careers. Graduates often go into roles in government and diplomacy, international organisations, charities and NGOs, as well as in media, teaching, or consultancy. It’s a degree that opens doors wherever decisions are made and policies take shape.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s how Glasgow supports your journey and where it could take you:

• Personalised career support – The University’s Careers Service runs CV workshops, interview practice, and one-to-one guidance tailored to Politics and Social Sciences students.

• Real connections – Meet Glasgow alumni working in government, NGOs, and media through career talks and networking events.

• Work experience opportunities – Benefit from internships and placements arranged through the university, especially in policy, research, and international organisations.

• Strong outcomes – Around 90% of Politics graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. Average salaries sit at about £27,000 after graduation, with many moving quickly into highly skilled roles.

• Specialist pathways – The Q-Step programme equips you with sought-after skills in data analysis and research—perfect for careers in policy, research, or consultancy.

• Global outlook – With study abroad options, you can gain international experience and boost your CV without extending your degree.

• Reputation that matters – With high student satisfaction and a respected four-year MA (SocSci) qualification, your degree carries weight with employers worldwide.

Typical career destinations include:

• Civil and Foreign Service (government, diplomacy, local government)

• International organisations (UN, NGOs, global charities)

• Media and journalism (reporting, commentary, communications)

• Education, business, and consultancy roles

 Further Academic Progression

If you’d like to continue your studies, Glasgow gives you a strong foundation for postgraduate options. Many Politics graduates move on to:

• Master’s degrees in International Relations, Public Policy, Development Studies, or Political Theory

• Research programmes (MRes, MPhil, PhD) for those aiming at academia or high-level policy work

• Professional qualifications, such as Law, Journalism, or Teaching (PGDE), if you want to branch into another field

A Politics degree at Glasgow doesn’t just give you knowledge—it gives you skills, networks, and opportunities that can shape a successful career anywhere in the world.