Politics (Research) Newcastle University

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.

Placements

You can include a work placement in your studies through the Career Development module.

Facilities

Teaching will take place in Humanities and Social Sciences provided facilities and you will be part of the Politics community. The Politics building includes a dedicated postgraduate computer room and a postgraduate common room, and is next door to the Robinson Library.

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.

International Students

To study this course you need to meet our Band 3 English Language requirements:

Direct Entry : IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills)

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

Our typical English Language requirements are listed as IELTS scores but we also accept a wide range of English Language tests.

The equivalent academic qualifications that we accept are listed on our country pages.

Pre-sessional English Course Requirements

• 6 week Pre-sessional entry: IELTS 6.0 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in all other sub-skills)
• 10 week Pre-sessional entry: IELTS 6.0 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills)

You can study a pre-sessional English course at our INTO Newcastle Centre.

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.