MSc European and International Politics and Policy

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc European and International Politics and Policy offers an in-depth understanding of contemporary political developments across Europe and the wider world, combining rigorous analysis with real-world policy insights. It is ideal for students interested in careers in international organisations, government, policy research, or academia, providing the skills to critically assess political, economic, and social issues at both regional and global levels.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In this intensive 12-month program, students develop a comprehensive foundation in European and international politics. Core modules such as Comparative European Politics, International Political Economy, and International Relations of Europe guide students through the major political and economic forces shaping the continent and its global interactions. Students also engage with analytical tools to assess governance, policymaking, and diplomatic strategies, preparing them to interpret complex political dynamics in practice.

Focus areas: European integration, international political economy, governance and policymaking, diplomacy, security studies, comparative politics, European institutions

Learning outcomes: Develop critical understanding of European and international politics, analyse policy processes, apply quantitative and qualitative research methods, evaluate political and economic developments, and produce evidence-based policy recommendations

Professional alignment (accreditation): LSE is globally recognised for its politics and international studies programs, equipping students with transferable skills applicable to government, NGOs, think tanks, and international organisations

Reputation (employability rankings): LSE is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities for politics and international studies (QS World University Rankings, Guardian University Guide), with graduates highly sought after in global policy and political sectors

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At LSE, the MSc European and International Politics and Policy doesn’t just teach theory — it immerses you in practical, real-world political analysis and policy work. You’ll gain hands-on experience through professional skills workshops, independent research projects, and interactions with leading practitioners and scholars. Being part of the European Institute community gives you access to seminars and events featuring influential policymakers, diplomats, and EU officials, helping you understand politics beyond the classroom while building a professional network.

Your experiential learning opportunities include:

Applied Policy Project: Work on a real-life policy question through the Applied Policy Project, applying research tools and policy analysis techniques under faculty guidance, bridging academic knowledge with practical problem-solving.
Professional Skills Workshops: Participate in practitioner-led workshops on negotiation, policymaking, and political risk analysis through the European Institute’s professional skills programs.
Independent Research & Dissertation: Complete a dissertation or applied project that develops your ability to conduct in-depth research — essential for careers in government, NGOs, or international organisations.
European Institute Events: Attend lectures, seminars, and networking events hosted by the European Institute, connecting you with visiting experts, former ministers, and leading thinkers.
LSE Library & Research Support: Access one of the world’s leading social science libraries, with extensive collections, databases, and expert research support to help with coursework and your dissertation.
Careers Service & Internships: Work with LSE Careers and the European Institute’s dedicated careers support to explore internships, recruitment events, CV workshops, and opportunities in international organisations, public policy, and diplomacy.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc European and International Politics and Policy programme at LSE go on to build meaningful careers shaping policy, governance, and global affairs, taking roles where they can influence decision-making and drive positive change. Typical roles include policy advisor or analyst in government or international organisations, consultant with a strategic focus on European or global issues, researcher or specialist in think tanks and academic institutions, and public affairs or political risk professional in the private sector. LSE provides strong support to help you take these next steps:

Career Support & Services: LSE Careers offers tailored support including employer events, sector-specific recruitment fairs, CV and interview workshops, one-to-one career advice, and access to job boards and employer presentations across government, NGOs, consultancies, and international organisations.
Employment Outcomes & Salary: Graduates from this programme report a median salary of around £35,000 fifteen months after finishing their studies, with many working in sectors such as government and public policy, consultancy, financial and professional services, technology, and international organisations.
Professional Networks & Partnerships: Through the European Institute and LSE’s global reputation, students gain exposure to influential speakers and professionals and benefit from strong connections with organisations across Europe and worldwide, enhancing industry insight and networking opportunities.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value: An LSE degree carries worldwide credibility, valued by employers in public, private, and non-profit sectors, helping graduates stand out whether entering the job market or pursuing specialist careers in policy or diplomacy.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni find roles in EU institutions, national governments, business, media, and international NGOs, combining rigorous analytical training with practical relevance that opens doors across multiple sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates who wish to continue their studies can pursue doctoral research, such as a PhD in European studies, international relations, political science, or public policy, or specialised postgraduate research programmes at LSE and other leading institutions. The MSc provides strong research and analytical training, giving you a solid foundation for advanced academic work and preparing you for roles that require both expertise and original research.