MA Politics (Research)

The MA Politics (Research) program at Newcastle University offers an in-depth, research-focused approach to studying political systems, ideologies, and policies. Students in this program are encouraged to undertake independent research projects in areas of personal or academic interest, developing critical analytical and methodological skills. The program is structured to provide a robust understanding of both theoretical and applied politics, preparing students for professional roles or further academic study. With a combination of core modules, research seminars, and independent dissertation work, students are immersed in contemporary political debates and equipped with the tools to conduct high-level research that can contribute to the understanding of global political issues.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Politics (Research) program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and political analysis. The program covers a variety of key areas such as political ideologies, governance structures, public policy, political economy, and the role of institutions in shaping national and global politics. Students will also gain expertise in research methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, allowing them to conduct thorough investigations into political phenomena. In addition to the core modules, students have the flexibility to choose from a range of elective courses to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations. The culmination of the program is a dissertation project, where students can focus on a particular aspect of politics and demonstrate their research capabilities.

Research Focus: The MA Politics (Research) program at Newcastle University places a strong emphasis on developing research skills in the field of political science. The program encourages students to engage with contemporary political issues, fostering the ability to critically analyze political events and theories. Research topics may include democracy and governance, international relations, political behavior, political economy, human rights, conflict resolution, and the role of institutions. Students are supported by a faculty with expertise in various political science subfields, including comparative politics, global politics, and political theory, which enables students to engage with cutting-edge research. The program offers ample opportunities for students to undertake original research, ensuring they graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to political scholarship.

Industry Engagement: Newcastle University’s MA Politics (Research) program emphasizes the importance of industry engagement by offering students opportunities to connect with political practitioners, policymakers, and international organizations. Students are encouraged to attend seminars, workshops, and networking events with professionals in the political sphere, including government representatives, policy analysts, and representatives from NGOs. These interactions not only provide practical insights into political systems but also allow students to apply their research to real-world political challenges. The program’s connections with local, national, and international organizations ensure that students are well-prepared for careers in politics, government, public policy, or research organizations. Students also benefit from the university’s active engagement with political research networks and think tanks, further enhancing their professional prospects.

Global Perspective: The MA Politics (Research) program at Newcastle University adopts a global perspective, enabling students to explore political issues that affect not only the UK but also other regions of the world. Students are encouraged to think about politics in a global context, considering how national policies interact with global issues such as climate change, human rights, migration, and security. Faculty members with expertise in global governance, international relations, and comparative politics provide a comprehensive understanding of how politics operates on a global scale. This global approach prepares students to tackle international political challenges and equips them to work in diverse settings, including international organizations, foreign policy agencies, and global advocacy groups.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 22 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 70 with no individual score below 65.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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

Newcastle University in the UK offers a range of scholarships to international students, providing them with financial support to pursue their studies. These scholarships aim to attract talented and academically outstanding students from around the world.  

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded to exceptional international students who have demonstrated academic excellence. The scholarships cover a partial tuition fee reduction.

International Family Discounts: Newcastle University offers a family discount scheme where siblings or married couples who are both studying at the university can receive a tuition fee reduction.

GREAT Scholarships: Newcastle University participates in the GREAT Scholarships program, which is a joint initiative by the British Council and UK universities. These scholarships are available for students from specific countries and cover full or partial tuition fees.

Chevening Scholarships: Newcastle University is a Chevening Partner, and eligible students can apply for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships, which are funded by the UK government. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.

Country-specific Scholarships: Newcastle University offers a range of scholarships specifically for students from certain countries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria defined by the funding organization.

Research Scholarships: Newcastle University offers research scholarships for international students undertaking a Ph.D. or research-based master's degree. These scholarships often include a stipend to cover living expenses in addition to tuition fee support.

Postgraduate Scholarships: Newcastle University provides various scholarships for international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or open to students from any field of study.

Graduates of the MA Politics (Research) program from Newcastle University are well-prepared to pursue various career paths.

Academic and Research Roles: Graduates can choose to pursue doctoral studies and academic careers, conducting in-depth research, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to political discourse.

Policy Analysis and Governmental Roles: Graduates may work as policy analysts, providing insights and recommendations to governmental and non-governmental organizations on political matters.

Political Consulting: Graduates can offer their expertise as political consultants, advising candidates, parties, and organizations on campaign strategies and political communication.

International Relations and Diplomacy: The program's focus on global politics equips graduates for roles in international organizations, diplomatic missions, and foreign policy analysis.

Think Tanks and Research Institutes: Graduates may join think tanks and research institutes, contributing to policy research, analysis, and the formulation of informed recommendations.