MA Political Theory

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The MA Political Theory at University College Dublin offers you a deep dive into the foundational questions of political life, equipping you to critically analyse contemporary challenges in governance, justice, and human rights. This postgraduate programme is ideal if you are passionate about understanding the ideas that shape our societies and seek to develop sophisticated analytical tools for engaging with complex political issues. You will explore diverse theoretical traditions, from classical philosophy to contemporary debates on global justice and feminist theory, preparing you for advanced academic research or impactful policy work.

You will study this Masters Degree full-time on campus over one year, engaging with core modules in research design and comparative political theory, alongside carefully selected options that allow you to specialise. Through rigorous coursework and a substantial thesis, you will develop your ability to conduct independent research, employing methodologies such as comparative analysis and quantitative text analysis. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for doctoral studies or for careers in public administration, international organisations, think tanks, and advocacy groups where a profound understanding of political thought is essential.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Political Theory program offers a robust foundation in core theoretical concepts, including research design, comparative political theory, global justice, and human rights. Students will also engage with a thesis project and select two optional modules from a diverse range of topics. These options explore areas such as gender and development, international relations, public policy, and political violence, allowing for specialization within political theory.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules

Research Design
Comparative Political Theory
Theories of Global Justice
Theory of Human Rights
Thesis

2 Stage 1 Options - B) 2 of the Following Modules

Gender and Development
Children's Rights & Participation
Masculinities, Gender and Equality
Feminist & Gender Theory
Ethics in Public Life
Theories of International Relations
Introduction to Statistics
Politics of European Governance
Politics of Human Rights
Politics and Change in the Middle East and North Africa
Peace & Conflict Studies
Gender & the Political System
Politics of International Trade and Investment
Feminist Theory
Ideas, Ideology in Public Policy
Politics of Development
Comparative Public Policy
International Political Economy
Comparative European Politics
Qualitative Research Methods for Political Science
Gender, Peace, and Security
Political Violence
Quantitative Text Analysis
Programming for Social Scientists
IR Theory: Conflict and Identity
AI and Large Language Models

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 26,585.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCloud Computing & InfrastructureCommercial & Industrial ConstructionCybersecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringQuality Assurance & TestingSoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

CGI

Department of Education and Youth

Dublin City University

European commission

Maynooth University

Trinity College Dublin

University College Dublin

Why Study MA Political Theory at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin in Ireland

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 MA Political Theory at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum scores for different components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, research fellows, advocacy specialists, and public administrators.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MA Political Theory equips you to tackle questions in governance and justice while exploring diverse theoretical traditions. This program involves rigorous coursework and a substantial thesis, preparing you for academic research or impactful policy work.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Political Theory program has its intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to meet this timeline.
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