MA Social and Political Thought

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 Social and Political Thought program at the University of Warwick possess a diverse skill set and deep understanding of social and political theory, making them well-suited for a wide range of career paths in academia, research, public policy, advocacy, and more. 

Academic Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as academic researchers, conducting original research in social and political theory and contributing to scholarly debates within academia. They may work as research fellows, postdoctoral researchers, or faculty members at universities and research institutions, publishing their findings in academic journals, presenting at conferences, and teaching courses in social and political theory.

Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as policy analysts for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups, analyzing social and political issues, evaluating policy proposals, and providing evidence-based recommendations to policymakers. They may specialize in areas such as human rights, social justice, immigration, environmental policy, or international relations, using their expertise in social and political theory to inform policy development and implementation.

Public Sector Careers: Graduates may pursue careers in the public sector, working for government departments, local authorities, or international organizations in roles related to policy development, public administration, or public affairs. They may work in areas such as social welfare, community development, public health, or international diplomacy, applying their understanding of social and political theory to address social problems and promote the common good.

Advocacy and Activism: Graduates may work as advocates or activists for non-profit organizations, grassroots movements, or social justice initiatives, campaigning for positive social change and challenging systems of oppression and inequality. They may engage in advocacy efforts related to human rights, civil liberties, environmental justice, gender equality, racial justice, or LGBTQ+ rights, using their knowledge of social and political theory to analyze power dynamics, mobilize support, and advocate for policy reforms.

Journalism and Media: Graduates may pursue careers in journalism, media, or communications, working as writers, editors, or producers for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcast media outlets. They may specialize in covering social and political issues, conducting investigative reporting, or producing documentaries and multimedia content that educates the public and promotes informed civic engagement.

Education and Training: Graduates may work in education and training, teaching social and political theory at secondary schools, colleges, or universities, or developing educational resources and curriculum materials for educational institutions or non-profit organizations. They may also work as tutors, mentors, or academic advisors, helping students develop critical thinking skills and engage with complex social and political ideas.

Consulting and Research Firms: Graduates may work for consulting firms, research organizations, or market research companies, conducting social and political research, analyzing public opinion, or providing strategic advice to clients in the public, private, or non-profit sectors. They may work on projects related to social impact assessment, stakeholder engagement, or corporate social responsibility, helping organizations navigate complex social and political landscapes.

International Organizations: Graduates may work for international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in roles related to international development, humanitarian assistance, or peacebuilding. They may work on projects related to global governance, human rights advocacy, conflict resolution, or sustainable development, applying their knowledge of social and political theory to address global challenges and promote social justice on a global scale.