Politics (MRes) - 2013/2014 entry

This programme enables you to develop an advanced understanding of research methodologies and techniques in the broadly defined discipline of politics. It will provide an intellectually stimulating guide to politics research. The aim is to develop your awareness of the requirements of research into politics, including methods, design and theory. The programme also provides opportunities to explore substantive issues in the fields of political theory, political science, international relations and sociology through a variety of option courses.

Find out more about studying at Birkbeck's Department of Politics.

• Flexible programme, allowing you to combine research training with any of the specialisms offered in politics at Master's level.
• Ideal if you are already pursuing, or are considering, a career in government or advisory bodies where research skills are required, or if you want to go on to a PhD/MPhil.

You must successfully complete the following five components:

• two core research training modules (Qualitative Social Research and Quantitative Social Research)
• two option modules selected from the other modules offered by the Department of Politics at postgraduate level
• a self-directed dissertation under the guidance of a member of the department's faculty on an approved topic in the area of politics, applying concepts or using methods taught on the research training courses.

Option modules are normally available in:

• British, Russian, European and US government and politics
• international relations and foreign policy
• the politics of the Middle East
• globalisation and international political economy
• nationalism and ethno-religious conflict 
• political behaviour and communication 
• political sociology and political theory 
• public policy ideas, practices and processes
• politics and religion
• war, politics and society.

Birkbeck Library has an extensive teaching collection of books and journals in politics and sociology. It also has an impressive range of electronic resources, including bibliographic databases and over 17,000 electronic journals. Most of these resources can be accessed online 24-hours a day. It is worth spending some time on the library website to familiarise yourself with its collections and services.

Students can also take advantage of the rich research collections nearby, including those of the Senate House Library, the British Library of Political and Economic Science (LSE Library) and the British Library.

The Department of Politics organises a lively programme of seminars and conferences.

Find out more about our learning resources and student support.

If you are interested in further research, we offer a PhD/MPhil in Politics/Sociology.

Graduates go on to careers in local and national government, the diplomatic service, policy work, the voluntary sector, and as researchers or journalists.

• There is no deadline for applications. However, our courses tend to fill up quickly, so we advise you to submit your application by March.