Postgraduate

Politics (Research) MA

Politics (Research) MA

Full time: 12 months, part time: 24 months

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Profile

This course provides you with the skills, knowledge and understanding to enable you to proceed to doctoral research. The social and political science research training is also valuable for many non-academic careers, including those in national and local government, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, social research and the media.

The course blends study in Politics with the internationally renowned, Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) recognised, Humanities and Social Sciences research training programme.

As a student on this course you develop:

  • advanced knowledge and understanding of political science methods and techniques required to carry out advanced research in politics
  • skills in planning, managing and disseminating research
  • knowledge and understanding of data collection methods and critical evaluation of various sources
  • proficiency in a range of qualitative and quantitative data analysis skills

We have a student-run Politics Postgraduate Society which brings together MA and PhD students to organise academic and social events. The Society runs:

  • professional development seminars, led by academic staff
  • seminars delivered by fellow postgraduates
  • round table discussions with staff and visitor
  • a weekly film night during term time

Delivery

Teaching and learning take place in workshops and practical classes, lectures, seminars, team-based problem-solving groups and in supervisory meetings for research papers and the dissertation.

Related Degrees

  • World Politics and Popular Culture MA

    This course examines the changing dynamics of contemporary international relations in the context of the politics of the forces shaping and being shaped by popular culture. It focuses on key theories, policies, and events in world politics, in relation to both traditional and new media.

  • Politics MPhil, PhD

    At the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology, we conduct research and offer PhD and MPhil supervision in all major fields of politics, including: international and global politics, governance and political organisations, and political theory.

All related programmes

Modules

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

Modules for 2019 entry

Module changes

Module changes

Modules change annually to take account of:

  • changing staff expertise
  • developments in the discipline
  • the requirements of external bodies and partners
  • student feedback.

Most module information for 2020 entry will be available from the end of May 2020.

Fees & Funding

2020-2021 fees

The fees displayed here are per year. If your studies last longer than one year your fee may be subject to an annual inflationary increase.

MA

UK

Full time: £7,800
Part time: £3,900

EU

Full time: £7,800
Part time: £3,900

International

Full time: £18,000

Find out more about our tuition fees, including how to pay them and available discounts.

EU students starting at Newcastle in 2020 will pay the UK (Home) tuition fee for the full duration of their course.

Funding opportunities

Entry Requirements

A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in international studies/politics or a related subject.

We may also consider your application on an individual basis if you have relevant professional experience.

Find out the equivalent qualifications for your country.

Use the drop down above to find your country. If your country isn't listed please email: international.recruitment@ncl.ac.uk for further information.

English Language Requirements

Select an English language test from the list to view our English language entry requirements.

Please email us at international.recruitment@ncl.ac.uk for further information.

If you have lower English Language scores, you may be accepted onto a pre-sessional English course. 

You must also read our English language requirements, including:

  • all minimum sub scores you must have
  • other English language tests we accept
  • extra English language support

Academic qualifications that we accept from your country to meet our entry requirements are listed on your country page.

Pathway courses

Our Business and Humanities Graduate Diplomas will prepare you for Master's study at Newcastle. If you're successful then you're guaranteed a place on this Master's course. Depending on your level of English, you can choose from:

How to Apply

You apply online, track your application and contact the admissions team via our applicant portal. Our step-by-step guide can help you on your way.

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Step-by-Step Guide

Start dates

The course starts in September. There is no application closing date for this course.

We suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts. This is so that you have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.

Deposit

If you live outside the UK/EU you must:

  • pay a deposit of £1,500
  • or submit an official letter of sponsorship

The deposit is payable after you receive an offer to study at Newcastle University. The deposit is non-refundable, but is deducted from your tuition fees when you register.

Contact

Karyn McCloud
Clerical Officer (Postgraduate Taught)
School of Geography, Politics and Sociology
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 208 7200
Email: gps@ncl.ac.uk

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