MA Political Science - European Politics & Policy Pathway (Research Route) / Course details

The MA Political Science European Politics and Policy course draws from one of the strongest centres for European politics in the UK. It combines analytical and conceptual rigour with topical subjects relating to the governance and policies of the European Union and their impact on the domestic politics of its member states.

We focus on processes of Europeanisation both within the context of the EU's existing member states, but also on candidate countries and the EU's neighbours. Building on a very strong comparative perspective (across Europe and the European Union), you'll access an excellent range of compulsory and optional units with strong areas of expertise in gender and media policies, varieties of European capitalism; nationalism and political violence; and the EU's external relations.

The course has been designed for those who want to combine strong transferable research skills with focused expertise in European politics. It is ideal if you wish to pursue a doctoral degree or a career in research. It will also appeal to you, if you're seeking employment in government at the supranational, national and sub national levels, as well as pursuing careers in journalism, teaching and international commerce.

We attract students from other European countries wishing to pursue postgraduate study abroad as well as growing numbers employed in business and government elsewhere who work with the European Union.

Part-time students complete the full-time course over two years. There are no evening or weekend course units available on the part-time route.  

You must first check the schedule of the compulsory units and then select your optional units to suit your requirements.  

Updated timetable information will be available from mid-August and you will have the opportunity to discuss your unit choices during induction week with your course director.

Courses are taught through a combination of methods including interactive lectures and seminars. You will be assessed through a variety of methods, such as exams, essays, presentations and tutorials.

You will be supported by the first-class resources, in addition to the networked study areas and access to one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country.