University of Aberdeen United Kingdom

Legal Studies and Politics, MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Legal Studies and Politics at the University of Aberdeen is designed for intellectually curious students who wish to understand the intricate relationship between law and political systems. You will explore how legal frameworks shape societal structures and how political forces influence the development and application of law, engaging with contemporary issues and historical precedents. This postgraduate degree provides a robust foundation for those seeking to critically analyse complex governance challenges and contribute to public discourse or policy-making in national, European, or global contexts.

This full-time, on-campus MA is studied over four years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that balances foundational legal principles with in-depth political analysis. You will engage with compulsory courses in areas such as the Legal System, Private Law, Democracy and Governance, and Global Politics, alongside optional modules and a significant dissertation in your final year. You will develop advanced research methodologies and analytical skills, preparing you for diverse career paths in law, government, international relations, journalism, and the third sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between legal studies and politics. Across four years, students will develop foundational knowledge in academic writing, legal systems, and private law, alongside core concepts in political science and international relations, including democracy, governance, power, and conflict. The curriculum progresses to examine political ideologies and global inequalities, culminating in advanced research methods and the opportunity to undertake a dissertation in either legal studies or politics.

1 YEAR 1

Academic writing for social sciences Compulsory
Getting started at the university of aberdeen Compulsory
Legal system Compulsory
Foundations of private law Compulsory
Politics & international relations 1: democracy and governance Compulsory
Politics & international relations 2: power and conflict Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Ideas and ideologies in politics and international relations Compulsory
Global politics: equality and inequality Compulsory

3 YEAR 3

Research methods in politics and international relations Compulsory

4 YEAR 4

Dissertation in legal studies Optional
Dissertation (politics) Optional
Dissertation
Copyright and allied rights

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,461.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,256.00 - USD 3,867.00
Transport USD 725.00 - USD 1,009.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,386.00 - USD 1,732.00
Estimated Total USD 4,367.00 - USD 6,262.00

Living cost estimates are based on Old Aberdeen campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Border Control & Immigration EnforcementCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCommercial & Industrial ConstructionEmployment & Labor LawForensic Science & Criminal JusticeIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionIntellectual Property LawIntelligence & InvestigationsLegal Aid & Public Interest LawProject & Construction Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Brodies LLP

Burnees Paul LLP

European commission

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Why Study Legal Studies and Politics, MA at University of Aberdeen

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Legal Studies and Politics, MA at University of Aberdeen

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency can be demonstrated through various tests such as Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. Specific score requirements vary by test; for example, Duolingo requires an overall score of 105.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, legal advisors, and political consultants.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program combines an in-depth analysis of law with topics in national and global politics. Students will gain a strong foundation for careers in fields like media and government service.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Legal Studies and Politics, MA program is September. Prospective students should prepare their applications accordingly.
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