MSc in Politics Research

University of Oxford

About the course: The MSc in Politics Research is an intensive one-year research preparation master's degree. It is not a standalone course, but rather it is intended for students who would like to proceed directly to doctoral study at Oxford or elsewhere but who must first obtain the necessary research training in political science. The MSc in Politics Research provides an advanced level of formal training in research techniques and methodology, and enables you to acquire advanced level substantive knowledge in this sub-area of the discipline. The approach to teaching comprises intensive and interactive work between you and your supervisor and course teachers, combined with a carefully planned programme of classes, seminars and lectures, as well as directed self-study. If you are successful on the degree you will attain a proven competence in quantitative and qualitative research methods. You will demonstrate competence in a variety of further and more advanced techniques of data collection, data handling and data analysis. You will design your research project, and will write a short thesis under expert supervision. Upon the successful completion of your MSc, you can apply to continue your studies in pursuit of a research degree (DPhil) in a relevant area of political science. You should include at least some indication of the topic of your eventual doctorate in your application. Do not worry if you do not yet have a detailed thesis outline: the MSc programme is intended to help you to develop a detailed research proposal. The Department of Politics and International Relations (DPIR) is internationally recognised as a leading centre for teaching and research in politics and counts among its members a number of acknowledged authorities within these disciplines. As an MSc in Politics Research student you would have to attend and complete the core classes and tutorials in comparative government or in European governance and a programme of research methods training, which includes core courses in statistics and research design and specialised elective courses. Graduate destinations: Graduate work in politics will prepare you for an academic career in the field, either in Oxford or elsewhere, but the DPIR also celebrates the substantial number of its graduates working in government, in diplomatic services, and in senior positions in the private sector.

Politics and International Relations