Explore key political controversies from diverse perspectives to understand and explain global phenomena. Engage with leading experts, tailor the course to your interests and deepen your understand of Politics.
Our MA Politics equips you with the analytical skills and global insight needed to drive political change, preparing you to be at the forefront of impactful initiatives in government, NGOs, and international organizations. Lead the way in shaping future political landscapes.
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
You'll study one 20-credit core module focusing on providing you with the principles, methodologies, and practical skills needed to design and conduct political research, resulting in preparing you for your dissertation and future opportunities. The remaining 100 credits are gathered across 4 modules out of our list of Political Science and International Studies optional modules. Assessment will take place throughout the term as courseworks, written exams and/or presentations.
Our MA Politics immerses you in a dynamic learning environment where you engage with experts in their filed who influence global political discourse through their research. Explore critical topics to develop a deep theoretical foundation and practical skills essential for influencing political change. Benefit from a global network of peers and mentors, preparing you for significant roles in government, NGOs, and international organisations, where you can make a meaningful impact.
in the UK for research power in Politics and International Studies (REF 2021)
of our research rated world-leading (REF 2021)
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.
The programme is composed of two 20-credit core modules completed by four 20-credit modules from our list of optional modules. To complete this and graduate with the 180 credits that will award you the MA, you will have to undertake a 60-credit dissertation.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Dissertation | 60 | Full Term |
| LM Doing Political Research | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Varieties of Politics: The Comparative Politics of Parties, Institutions and Regimes | 20 | Semester 1 |
Students must choose 80 credits from the following optional modules or any modules offered by International Development or INLOGOV:
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
or an equivalent qualification
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
MA (full-time)
MA (part-time)
PGDip (full-time)
PGDip (part-time)
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee.
Entry to this programme is highly competitive and as a result your application and personal statement will be closely scrutinised by our Admissions Tutors. Please ensure that you spend some time familiarising yourself with the programme modules and outcomes. Personal Statements should be relevant to the programme and how you believe it will enable you to achieve your career goals.
Application deadline for international students requiring a visa. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Our MA Politics at the University of Birmingham prepares a new generation of influential professionals ready to shape global governance and policy landscapes. Whether aspiring to lead in government, drive change through NGOs, or excel in international diplomacy, our course equips you with the analytical skills and global perspective to thrive in diverse career paths. Explore the dynamics of political change and contribute meaningfully to shaping future societies.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
