MSc Politics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The MSc Politics program is designed for students eager to gain an advanced understanding of political studies and develop robust research skills. It's an ideal fit for those aspiring to careers in the public or private sectors, or for individuals looking to pursue a PhD in politics or the social sciences.

 

Your journey in this program will involve a dynamic curriculum, starting with foundational compulsory classes like Principles of Research Design, which will equip you to evaluate various research designs and craft compelling proposals for your dissertation. You'll then delve into specialized methodological training by choosing between Quantitative Methods 1 or Qualitative Methods. The program further broadens your expertise through a selection of four elective classes, allowing you to explore areas such as International Institutions & Regimes, where you'll analyze global interactions in security, trade, and human rights, or Politics of Non-democratic Regimes, examining political science research on authoritarian countries. Your studies culminate in a dissertation, completed over the summer, allowing for in-depth research on a topic of your choice.

This program is focused on developing your ability to understand and analyze complex political issues, design and conduct rigorous research, and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world policy challenges. You'll benefit from studying at a university recognized as the UK University of the Year and Scottish University of the Year in the Daily Mail and The Sunday Times' Good University Guide Awards 2026, respectively. Furthermore, the politics department is top-rated in the UK for research, ensuring you're taught by leading international scholars.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

You'll gain practical skills through a highly interactive learning environment, with all classes taught in seminars that blend theoretical discussions with a strong empirical or policy focus. These seminars utilize a variety of teaching techniques, including small-group work, structured debates, and presentations, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience. You'll also have access to computer laboratory sessions for methods classes, where you'll apply relevant software packages for statistical analysis.

 

* Students utilize relevant software packages for statistical analysis.
* The curriculum incorporates practical team projects and small-group work.
* You have the opportunity to undertake a client-based project as part of your dissertation research, collaborating with host organizations like local, city, and national governmental bodies.
* Computer laboratory sessions are available for some methods classes.
* The School of Government & Public Policy houses several research centers, such as the European Policies Research Centre, the Centre for Energy Policy, the Institute for Future Cities' City Observatory (located in the Technology & Innovation Centre), and the Fraser of Allander Institute, which routinely host 'Speaker’s Series' with guest lecturers and visiting academics, offering networking opportunities and individual consultations.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Politics program are exceptionally well-prepared for diverse career paths in the public and tertiary sectors, both in the UK and internationally. You'll be ready for roles such as a Policy Analyst, Government Official, or Political Researcher, equipped with advanced research design and methodological skills highly valued by employers.

 

* The program offers career workshop sessions to help you explore opportunities.
* You can undertake client-based dissertation projects with host organizations, including local, city, and national governmental bodies, providing invaluable real-world experience.
* Further Academic Progression: This program offers excellent preparation for those wishing to pursue a PhD in politics or the social sciences.

Program Key Stats

£21550
£9550
Sept Intake : 17th Aug


No
No

Eligibility Criteria

3

6.5
80
First or 1st
55 - 60
70 - 75

Additional Information & Requirements

Country Requirements

Career Options

  • Policy Analyst
  • Government Official
  • Political Researcher
  • Public Affairs Consultant
  • Data Analyst

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