MA Politics, Big Data and Quantitative Methods

University of Warwick

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The MA Politics, Big Data and Quantitative Methods program at the University of Warwick is designed for students interested in exploring the intersection of politics, data science, and quantitative research methods. This innovative program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to analyze political phenomena, make evidence-based policy recommendations, and understand the complexities of contemporary political systems using advanced quantitative techniques. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, practical training in statistical analysis and programming, and hands-on research projects, students gain proficiency in handling large datasets, conducting sophisticated data analysis, and interpreting quantitative findings in the context of political science research.  

  1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines insights from political science, data science, statistics, and computer science. Students engage with theoretical concepts from political science while also gaining practical skills in data collection, data management, statistical analysis, and data visualization using programming languages such as R and Python.

  2. Quantitative Research Methods: Students receive comprehensive training in quantitative research methods, including regression analysis, causal inference, experimental design, network analysis, and machine learning. They learn how to apply these methods to analyze political behavior, public opinion, electoral systems, policy outcomes, and other political phenomena using real-world datasets.

  3. Big Data Analytics: The program emphasizes the analysis of big data, introducing students to techniques for handling large-scale datasets, including text data, social media data, and administrative records. Students learn how to extract meaningful insights from diverse sources of data, identify patterns and trends, and generate actionable insights for political decision-making and policy analysis.

  4. Policy Analysis and Evaluation: Students develop skills in policy analysis and evaluation, learning how to assess the impact of policies and interventions using quantitative methods. They explore topics such as program evaluation, policy effectiveness, policy simulation, and forecasting, gaining the ability to evaluate the success or failure of policies and propose evidence-based solutions to complex policy problems.

  5. Professional Development: The program includes opportunities for professional development, such as internships, research placements, and industry collaborations, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks in relevant sectors. Students also receive support in developing their research and analytical skills, writing research proposals, presenting findings, and pursuing career opportunities in academia, government, and the private sector.

Pollster Education

Location

University of Warwick

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 7

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 28190

Postgraduate Entry requirements

1. Academic Qualifications: Postgraduate applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognized institution, with a minimum academic achievement of 60% to 80%.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the remaining components at 7.0 or above.

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with minimum sub-scores of Reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, and Writing 21.

  • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, including 59 or above in all components.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Warwick offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing their academic aspirations at one of the UK's leading universities. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate financial barriers to higher education. 

Chancellor's International Scholarship: The Chancellor's International Scholarship is offered to outstanding international PhD applicants across all disciplines. This scholarship covers the full payment of overseas tuition fees and provides a generous stipend to support living expenses. Recipients of this scholarship are selected based on academic excellence and research potential.

Warwick Marshall Scholarship: The Warwick Marshall Scholarship is open to students from select developing countries who wish to pursue a Master's degree at Warwick. This scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the Master's program. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Warwick participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme, which enables students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue a Master's degree in selected subjects at the university. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, and other allowances. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Other Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and faculties at Warwick offer specific scholarships and funding opportunities for international students based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria. These scholarships may vary by program and are typically advertised on departmental websites.

External Funding Sources: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and international organizations offering financial support for higher education. The university's international office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external funding opportunities.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MA Politics, Big Data and Quantitative Methods program at the University of Warwick are well-equipped to pursue diverse and rewarding career opportunities in academia, government, international organizations, think tanks, consulting firms, and the private sector. The program provides students with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience in data analysis and policy research, making them highly sought-after professionals in today's data-driven world. Whether pursuing further study at the doctoral level or entering the workforce, graduates of the MA Politics, Big Data and Quantitative Methods program have a wide range of career paths available to them.

  1. Data Analyst/Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers as data analysts or researchers in various sectors, including academia, research institutions, government agencies, and NGOs. They can utilize their expertise in quantitative methods and data analysis to conduct research on political behavior, public opinion, policy outcomes, and electoral systems, generating insights that inform decision-making and policy formulation.

  2. Policy Analyst/Evaluator: Graduates may work as policy analysts or evaluators in government agencies, think tanks, consulting firms, or advocacy organizations. They can apply their skills in data analysis and policy research to assess the impact of policies and interventions, evaluate program effectiveness, and make evidence-based recommendations to improve public policies and programs.

  3. Political Consultant/Strategist: Graduates can pursue careers as political consultants or strategists, working for political parties, candidates, or advocacy groups. They can leverage their expertise in big data analytics and quantitative methods to analyze voter behavior, develop targeted campaign strategies, and assess the effectiveness of political messaging and outreach efforts.

  4. Data Scientist/Analytics Specialist: Graduates with strong quantitative and programming skills may work as data scientists or analytics specialists in the private sector. They can apply their expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization to extract insights from large datasets, develop predictive models, and drive data-driven decision-making in industries such as finance, marketing, healthcare, and technology.

  5. Academic/Researcher: Graduates may pursue further study at the doctoral level and pursue careers as university lecturers, researchers, or scholars in political science, data science, or related fields. They can conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to advancing knowledge in their areas of expertise, while also teaching and mentoring the next generation of students.


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