Program Overview

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MSc Political Research

The MSc Political Research is a postgraduate degree that explores different methodological approaches and their application to real-life political problems. It equips students with key transferable skills in research design, a range of research methods, and the management of different types of data.

Key Facts

• Start date: September
• Application deadline: August
• Study mode and duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

Study with Us

The program helps develop skills in empirical political science, explores different methodological approaches, and provides focused training in research methods. It is taught by leading international scholars of elections, public opinion, and political parties.

Course Content

• Compulsory classes:
  • Principles of Research Design
  • Quantitative Methods 1
  • Quantitative Methods 2
  • Qualitative Methods
• Elective classes:
  • Policy Analysis
  • Comparative Public Policy
  • International Institutions & Regimes
  • Politics of Non-democratic Regimes
  • Contemporary International Relations
  • European Governance
  • Can Democracy Deliver?
  • Political Behaviour

Learning & Teaching

All classes are taught in seminars, combining theoretical discussion with a strong empirical or policy focus. Seminars include small-group work, structured debates, presentations, and background lectures, with an average of 20 contact hours and additional computer laboratory sessions for some methods classes.

Assessment

Methods of assessment include written assignments, blogs, podcasts, practical team projects, presentations, individual projects, and exams. The dissertation, produced over the summer, accounts for one-third of the total assessment.

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: First or upper second-class Honours degree, or equivalent, in social science.
• English language requirements: Please check the university's English requirements before making an application.

Fees & Funding

• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• Scotland, England, Wales & Northern Ireland: Full-time: £9,550; Part-time: £4,775
• International: £21,550
• Additional costs: Visa & immigration costs for international students; Poster presentation: £10
• Available scholarships: Check the university's scholarships search for funding opportunities.

How Can I Fund My Course?

Information on funding opportunities for students from Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and international students is available, including tuition fee loans and living cost loans.

Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Scholarships

EU Engagement Scholarships are available to EU applicants who would have previously been eligible for Home (Scottish/EU) fee status.

Apply

Applications for the MSc Political Research can be made for full-time or part-time study, with start dates in September.

Contact Us

For prospective student enquiries, please submit an enquiry or use the LiveChat service between 10am and 4pm (GMT).

Have You Considered?

Similar postgraduate taught and Masters courses include Data Science for Politics & Policymaking (MSc), Diplomacy & International Security (MSc), Political Economy (MSc), International Relations (MSc), and Public Policy (MSc).

Our Faculties & Departments

The University of Strathclyde comprises four faculties: Engineering, Humanities & Social Sciences, Science, and Strathclyde Business School, each offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Professional Services

The university provides various professional services, including Access, Equality & Inclusion Service, Alumni & Development, Careers Service, and more, to support students throughout their academic journey.

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Students have access to a range of online services, including student/staff email, Myplace, PEGASUS, PURE, and more, to facilitate their studies and university experience.

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For general enquiries, please visit the university's contact page for more information on how to get in touch.

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The University of Strathclyde is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, number SC015263.