MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MA Social and Political Thought
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Social and Political Thought at the University of Sussex offers students a deep and comprehensive understanding of the major intellectual traditions that have shaped modern political theory. The program examines key social and political concepts such as justice, power, democracy, and rights, with a focus on both classical and contemporary theorists. It provides students with the tools to critically assess social structures and political ideologies, as well as the means to contribute to ongoing debates on global political and social challenges. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students explore the historical development of political thought and its relevance to current social and political issues, from the rise of global capitalism to the challenges of climate change, migration, and human rights.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Social and Political Thought is structured to offer both a strong foundation in classical political theory and exposure to contemporary issues in social and political analysis. Core modules typically include topics such as Political Theory, Social Movements and Power, Philosophy of Justice, and Critical Social Theory. Students are encouraged to critically engage with the works of influential thinkers like Karl Marx, Michel Foucault, Judith Butler, and John Rawls, while also exploring more modern concepts related to globalization, identity politics, and the environment. The program also emphasizes research skills, equipping students to conduct independent, rigorous analysis of political and social issues, culminating in a dissertation that allows students to specialize in a particular area of interest.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA Social and Political Thought is deeply interdisciplinary and rooted in both historical and contemporary analysis of political ideas and social movements. Faculty members are actively engaged in research that spans a wide range of topics, including critical theory, the politics of gender and race, postcolonial studies, global justice, and environmental politics. The program encourages students to engage with ongoing debates in political theory and to develop their own research projects that address current social and political issues. Students also have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects, providing exposure to advanced academic work and developing critical research skills.
Industry Engagement: The MA Social and Political Thought program at the University of Sussex is designed to bridge academic learning with real-world applications. The university maintains strong relationships with various political institutions, NGOs, think tanks, and social advocacy groups, offering students opportunities for industry engagement through internships, placements, and networking events. Students can gain valuable hands-on experience by working with organizations that focus on social justice, human rights, policy development, and environmental sustainability. These industry connections provide students with practical insights into the political landscape and the chance to contribute to important social and political change initiatives.
Global Perspective: The University of Sussex offers a truly global perspective on political theory and social thought. The MA Social and Political Thought program explores issues that are of global importance, such as international relations, climate change, migration, global inequality, and human rights. Students are encouraged to examine how political ideas are shaped by and respond to global challenges, and to think critically about the role of political theory in addressing these issues. The program’s global outlook is further enhanced by its diverse student body, which brings a range of cultural perspectives and experiences to the classroom. This international dimension enriches discussions and broadens the scope of learning, preparing students for careers in global organizations, policy analysis, and international advocacy.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 21500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The MA Social and Political Thought program at the University of Sussex provides students with the intellectual tools necessary for a broad spectrum of careers in both the public and private sectors. Students develop strong research, analytical, and communication skills that are highly sought after in various industries.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts in government agencies, think tanks, and political organizations. As policy analysts, they research and assess current political issues, propose solutions, and provide strategic advice on policy development. Their deep understanding of social and political thought makes them valuable assets in shaping policies on issues such as inequality, human rights, environmental policy, and social justice.
Social Researcher: Graduates may work as social researchers for research institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government bodies. In this role, they design and conduct studies that inform public policy, social programs, and social change initiatives. Their research may focus on areas like social justice, political participation, and the impacts of globalization and inequality.
Political Consultant: Graduates of the MA Social and Political Thought can work as political consultants, advising politicians, political parties, and advocacy groups on social and political issues. They use their expertise in political theory and social movements to help shape campaigns, develop political strategies, and guide organizations in addressing complex political challenges.
International Relations Specialist: The global perspective offered in this program allows graduates to pursue careers in international relations. They may work in international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, or other diplomatic institutions. Their roles might involve analyzing international conflicts, advising on peace-building efforts, or working on policy related to human rights and global development.
Social Justice Advocate: Many graduates choose careers in social justice advocacy, working with NGOs, community organizations, or global advocacy groups. These roles involve campaigning for social change, raising awareness of issues such as inequality, racism, gender discrimination, and climate justice. Advocates work to influence public opinion, push for policy reforms, and support marginalized communities.
Human Rights Officer: Graduates with a focus on human rights can work as human rights officers for international organizations, NGOs, or government bodies. Their work involves monitoring and reporting on human rights abuses, advocating for the protection of human rights, and helping to implement international human rights standards and frameworks.
Community Organizer: Graduates may work as community organizers, mobilizing people to participate in social and political movements. These professionals work with local communities to identify issues, organize grassroots campaigns, and advocate for change at the local, national, or global level. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Political Journalist or Media Specialist: With a strong understanding of political theory and social issues, graduates can pursue careers in journalism, focusing on political reporting, social commentary, or investigative journalism. Political journalists often write for newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, providing analysis and commentary on contemporary political events and social issues.
University Lecturer or Researcher: For graduates interested in academia, the MA Social and Political Thought provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a PhD and an academic career. Graduates can teach at the university level or engage in advanced research in political science, sociology, philosophy, and related fields. They may contribute to the academic community by publishing research and influencing future generations of students.
NGO Program Manager: Graduates with a passion for social change and leadership may take on roles as program managers within NGOs. These professionals oversee projects that address social issues such as poverty, education, and gender inequality. They are responsible for managing teams, securing funding, and ensuring that projects are successfully implemented.
Cultural and Diversity Specialist: Graduates can work as cultural and diversity specialists in a range of sectors, including education, business, and government. These professionals help organizations foster inclusive environments by advising on policies and practices that promote diversity, equality, and social justice. Their role may involve providing training, conducting assessments, and implementing diversity initiatives.
