MA Political Science - Political Theory Pathway (Standard Route) / Careers

Year of entry: 2026

Career opportunities

The University of Manchester is one of the most targeted universities by the UK’s top graduate employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2024).

Our MA Political Science – Political Theory gives you the specialist knowledge and skills required for a range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors, such as in:

  • local and central government;
  • international and supranational institutions, such as the UN and the EU;
  • research, policy, think-tanks, institutes, and NGOs;
  • management and policy consulting.

You will also acquire vital skills relevant to many different sectors and roles, such as data analysis, qualitative and quantitative research design, academic writing, and communication and teamwork. Recent graduates from our Political Science courses have succeeded in organisations such as:

  • British Red Cross;
  • Home Office;
  • The House of Commons;
  • NHS;
  • KPMG;
  • BNY Mellon;
  • Boeing;
  • Princeton University.

Another popular option is to continue specialising for a career in research and universities through a PhD in Politics or in another related field.

The University has its own dedicated, award-winning Careers Service where you can benefit from tailored careers support, practice interviews, CV and application support, job listings for Manchester students, and much more. Better yet, you will have access to our Careers Service both during your course and for two years after you graduate, so we know you’re on the right path.