MA Politics (Research) at University of Manchester

Programme overview

Gain the advanced research and analytical skills needed to investigate challenging political questions and pursue further academic study. Build transferable political analysis and research capabilities and graduate from the UK's most targeted university by top employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2026).

What you will study

A master’s degree is formed of 180 credits. On our MA Politics (Research Route), there are five mandatory course units, including a dissertation worth 60 credits. Compulsory units include Research Design and Skills, Debating Justice, Democracy: Theory & Practice, Dissertation, Qualitative Research Methods.

Career pathways

The University of Manchester is one of the most targeted universities by the UK’s top graduate employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2026). Our MA Politics gives you the specialist knowledge and skills required for a range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors, such as in: local and central government; international and supranational institutions, such as the UN and the EU; research, policy, think-tanks,...

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

We require a UK bachelor's degree with a First or Upper Second classification or the overseas equivalent, in any discipline. When assessing your academic record we consider your degree subject, grades you have achieved and the standing of the institution where you studied your qualification. English language: IELTS Academic test score of 7 overall, including 7 in writing with no further component score below 6.5.

Domestic applicants: GBP 16,300 a year (2026/27). 2027 entry fees not yet set; 2026 entry fee shown for reference; MA (full-time) Source

International applicants: GBP 29,400 a year (2026/27). 2027 entry fees not yet set; 2026 entry fee shown for reference; MA (full-time) Source

Intake: 2027 entry

Duration: 1 year

Apply through the official page: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/how-to-apply/

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities