How do political scientists explain political outcomes? How does normative theory inform empirical research? How do political science approaches differ from historical accounts of political phenomenon? How can political science be used to analyse the real world? Our MSc Politics gives a general overview of such topics but you have a wide choice of modules than our other Masters courses. MSc Politics is designed for those who already have a solid background in approaches and methods employed in the different areas of political science and who want to broaden and deepen their skills and knowledge in positive political methodology, such as quantitative data analysis and econometrics. The stronger emphasis on political methodology will enable you to understand political science research published in highly prestigious journals of the profession and to undertake your own projects that involve the testing of the empirical implications of theoretical arguments as well as positive political analysis. In addition, the focus on methodology provides a better preparation for those who want to enrol in PhDs at leading political science departments in the US and throughout Europe which focus on model building and empirical testing or behavioural political science. Please note that this course is also available on a part-time basis.

Our graduates go on to enjoy influential careers in British, European and international politics. This includes working as an MP, being the Speaker of the House of Commons and employment as political lobbyists or staff assistants to MPs and MEPs. Our graduates also work in the Civil Service and in local government, hold posts with the World Bank, the United Nations, NATO, YouGov and YouGov America, work for the armed forces or in finance and business, or undertake further research and teaching. Our graduates acquire a wide range of methodological, analytical and statistical skills that make them highly adaptable and attractive to employers. Our academic reputation is illustrated by the fact that many of our graduates now teach or research at universities, colleges of higher education and schools. For example, recent graduates are now research fellows and academic staff at Mannheim, Germany; ETH Zurich, Switzerland; Duke University, USA; NATO/SHAPE, Belgium; and University of Amsterdam, Netherlands.