About this course
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Develop the critical thinking and analytical skills needed to succeed in contemporary politics with this MSc Politics degree.
Increasing complexity in international relations means there is growing demand for political professionals that excel in global policy analysis, international cooperation and geopolitical risk assessment.
On this course you'll have opportunities to attend lectures and seminars lead by expert researchers and professionals and build your network. You'll also to take part in policy simulations and case studies to strengthen your leadership and decision making skills.
With 2 possible study pathways and optional modules, you'll be able to specialise in either Political Psychology and Electoral Behaviour or International Relations. You'll also have opportunities to take specialised modules to support your research and analytical skills in preparation for PhD study should you want to continue your studies.
Pathways to suit your interests
Political Psychology and Electoral Behaviour pathway
On this study pathway you'll learn about the psychological underpinnings of political decision-making, voter behaviour, leadership, and crisis responses.
Topics of study may include, but are not limited to:
- how emotions, identity, and biases shape voting patterns
- what drives voting behaviour and mass movements
- mechanisms behind crisis decision-making
International Relations pathway
On this study pathway you'll explore power dynamics in international relations, governance challenges, development, and diplomacy.
Topics of study on this pathway may include, but are not limited to:
- institutional constraints
- adaptive governance
- theories of leadership in both international and domestic politics
- the role of China in shaping global governance and geopolitics
Supporting your career goals
With its emphasis on research and analytical skills and an independent research project, this Master's degree in politics aims to prepare you for employment in response to rising demand.
You'll be supported throughout your studies, with access to work-related opportunities like internships and collaboration with University of Southampton Research Institutes. You'll also be encouraged to make use of career development workshops and employability coaching.