MSc Political Science (Conflict Studies and Comparative Politics)

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc Political Science (Conflict Studies and Comparative Politics) at LSE gives you a powerful mix of deep comparative analysis and practical training to understand why political systems differ and how conflicts emerge, develop, and can be resolved across the world. It is ideal for students who enjoy critical thinking, want to study democracy, nationalism, institutions, and conflict dynamics, and are aiming for careers in policy, international organisations, research, diplomacy, or global governance.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-Time / Core Year)
In the first year, you will build a strong foundation with the compulsory course Introduction to Comparative Politics and Conflict Studies, exploring why some countries democratise, how constitutions and political institutions matter, and what drives patterns of conflict today. You will then develop your analytical skills through either Quantitative Analysis for Political Science or Qualitative Analysis for Political Science, learning to design and interpret research across different cases. Finally, you will complete a 10,000-word Dissertation, allowing you to pursue your own comparative political topic — from conflict resolution strategies to economic institutions or political behaviour — with academic rigour.

Focus Areas

Conflict dynamics and resolution, democratic systems and comparative political institutions, political economy of policymaking, nationalism and ethnicity, regional politics including the Middle East, Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, India and China, and proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to analyse complex political phenomena across national and regional contexts, confidently apply quantitative and qualitative research methods, formulate evidence-based policy insights, and write incisive dissertation research, all grounded in comparative political science and conflict studies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MSc is delivered by the Department of Government at LSE, an internationally recognised centre for political research and teaching, ensuring academic quality and relevance for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, policy consultancies, security agencies, media, and further doctoral study.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The London School of Economics and Political Science is one of the world’s leading social science institutions, ranked among the top globally for social sciences and politics, with strong employer reputation and excellent graduate outcomes across Europe.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At LSE, experiential learning in the MSc Political Science (Conflict Studies and Comparative Politics) goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. You’ll develop practical analytical skills through independent research, interactive seminars, and access to one of the world’s leading social science research environments. The programme emphasizes discussion and debate, helping you apply theoretical insights to real-world political conflicts. Being in central London, close to Westminster, embassies, and international organisations, provides unique opportunities to engage with political life outside the classroom. Students are supported by expert academic staff and a range of facilities that help advance both research and professional skills.

Practical experiences and tools you’ll have access to include:

Extensive research collections at the British Library of Political and Economic Science, the world’s largest library devoted to social sciences research, supporting dissertations and coursework.
Interactive seminars and group work, including debates, presentations, and analysis of real case studies under faculty guidance.
One-on-one dissertation supervision for a substantial 10,000-word independent research project, covering topic selection, methodology, and analysis.
Department of Government events, such as research talks, guest lectures, and public events connecting you with leading scholars and practitioners.
Internships and work experience support through LSE Careers, offering opportunities in political, policy, and NGO sectors in London.
The Parliamentary Internship scheme, allowing students to gain hands-on experience working with Members of Parliament in Westminster.
International opportunities through LSE’s research institutes, such as project placements or internships with the India Observatory.
Support from LSE LIFE, including workshops and one-to-one guidance to enhance writing, research design, and communication skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Political Science (Conflict Studies and Comparative Politics) at the London School of Economics gain strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of global political systems, preparing them for influential roles in public policy, international organisations, research, and consultancy. Typical job roles include policy analyst, international development officer, political risk consultant, and research associate. With LSE’s global reputation and networks, this degree opens doors to careers where you can make a real impact.

The programme also offers a range of university services and opportunities to help you move into these roles:

LSE Careers provides tailored support, including CV reviews, interview preparation, employer events, and networking opportunities that connect you with top employers in government, NGOs, and international organisations.
Recent graduates from this and related MSc programmes report a median salary of around £36,000 fifteen months after graduating, reflecting strong employment outcomes in full-time roles.
LSE’s Department of Government maintains strong industry links and alumni networks, helping students connect with employers in policy, the public sector, research, and global development fields.
The LSE brand has longstanding global recognition, enhancing long-term career credibility and mobility for graduates pursuing roles in diplomacy, consultancy, or multinational organisations.
Many graduates move into careers across government, consultancies, NGOs, media, and research institutions, demonstrating the real-world relevance of the programme’s training.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, students who are drawn to research and academia can continue with doctoral study, including PhD programmes in political science, international relations, or related social science disciplines. The research skills, methodological training, and dissertation experience gained during this degree provide a strong foundation for advanced academic pathways.