MA Political Science - Philosophy and Political Theory / Course details

Philosophy is vital to understanding the ideals that shape our politics. Political theory is key to understanding the factors that can obstruct our ideals. By studying this course, you'll learn how the two disciplines enrich each other.

Working with a large and talented pool of academics, in small intensive seminar groups, you’ll interrogate key concepts in 21st century political theory, such as rights and democracy, liberty and equality.

Via mandatory course units, you’ll be introduced to a range of research techniques and approaches. You’ll also be able to tailor the programme to fit your interests, with optional course units covering an array of current and interesting topics.

Throughout the course, you’ll develop skills in research, critical enquiry and creative thinking, preparing you for a stimulating and worthwhile career.

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.

You will be supported by first-class resources, in addition to networked study areas.

You will also have access to the John Ryland's University Library , with over 4.5m books and vast archives of historical material and rare volumes, it is one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country.