Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Programme in Political Science: Democracy, Power, and Inequality

The Master's programme in Political Science: Democracy, Power, and Inequality is a one-year comprehensive programme designed to immerse students in the world of political science. This programme is tailored for individuals passionate about the state of democracy and its challenges.

Programme Overview

The programme examines why some democracies remain robust while others are susceptible to backsliding. It delves into the different channels that social groups can use to influence political decision-making and why some groups are more effective than others. Additionally, it explores how new digital technologies are changing democratic decision-making and how states address inequalities between the rich and the poor.

Methodological Training

• Refine skills in both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Familiarize yourself with relevant research traditions and the latest developments in the field.
• Work on case studies in small groups, apply research methods, formulate research questions, and collect and analyse data.

Independent Research

• Conduct high-quality social scientific research.
• Write research papers, essays, and literature reviews, and practice public speaking.
• Engage in class discussions and presentations, and receive intensive coaching through tutorials and workshops.

Master's Thesis

• In the final phase of the programme, design and carry out your own research project, culminating in a Master’s thesis supervised by one of our internationally acclaimed lecturers.

Programme Structure

The programme is divided into six dynamic periods:

Period 1 (September-October)

• Dive into the core debates of political science.
• Familiarize yourself with key theories and big questions, and apply these insights to contemporary cases alongside your fellow students.

Period 2 (November-December)

• Choose two from four specialist subjects and engage with key contemporary issues through ongoing scientific debates:
  • Contemporary Democratic Politics
  • Global Environmental Politics: Actors and Institutions
  • Global Political Economy and Geopolitics
  • International Security Studies

Period 3 (January)

• Take a short course on the philosophy, design, and practice of political research.
• Gain the theoretical tools to prepare for your thesis, formulate hypotheses, and collect and analyse data in small groups.

Period 4 (February-March)

• Practice conducting research within your specialization through Workshop courses.
• Refresh and advance your knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methods, and apply them to your chosen topic.

Periods 5 & 6

• Devote yourself entirely to your Master’s thesis, supervised by our international team of researchers.
• Design and conduct your own research project, culminating in an original and well-researched thesis.

Career Prospects

A whole range of career paths is open to graduates of this programme. The analytical skills to think critically and grasp societal complexity, the capacity to conduct independent research and clearly communicate results to different audiences, and the deep knowledge and understanding of various fields in international politics, governance, and decision-making are competencies that can be applied across diverse job activities.