To provide a comprehensive and in-depth perspective on contemporary political systems and issues
To provide students with the possibility to engage in a significant piece research of their own choosing
To provide students with the methodological skills to pursue professional careers or further postgraduate research
Contact Course Director, Andrew Shorten Department of Politics and Public Administration, Tel. +353-61-234265 Email:andrew.shorten@ul.ie
Graduate Profile
MA in Politics Dr. Luke Ashworth
The course is designed for those who want to pursue a professional career in the private of public sectors as well as for those who want to pursue further postgraduate study.
Programme Content
Students are required to take three core modules and four optional modules in a combination of lectures and seminar discussion. An additional and substantial research element includes: Assessed course research papers; and a dissertation of 10,000-15,000 words written on a topic of choice under the guidance of an appropriate supervisor. A minimum pass (C3) in the dissertation is a requirement for the successful examination of this programme.
Semester 1 Contemporary Political Theory, Research Methods Seminar Programme
Students must choose one module from List A and one module from List B: List A: International Relations; Public Policy Analysis: Theory and Method List B: Origins, Development and Resolution of Conflict; Politics of European Integration
During the Christmas Break a study trip to a European Capital is offered.
Semester 2 Comparative PoliticsStudents must choose two modules among the following:
Modules without prerequisites: Issues in Contemporary Democratic Theory; Russian and Post-Soviet Politics Issues in International Development
Modules with prerequisites : Issues in International Public Policy; International Security; Feminist Perspectives on Conflict and Development Issues; External Relations of the European Union; Political Reconciliation in the Aftermath of Conflict; Partnership and Governance.
Summer Semester Dissertation
All elective modules may not be offered if student numbers are too small or if there are irresolvable timetable clashes.Further information: http://www.ul.ie/ppa/
Entry Requirements
Primary degree in a relevant discipline with First or Upper Second Class Honours or an approved equivalent qualification (Primary Degree: Level 8 NQAI). Candidates must be proficient in English
What to Include with your Application
Qualification transcripts and certificates
English language qualification if English is not your first language
Certified English translations of your transcripts/certificates where the originals are in a language other than English.
A copy of your birth certificate (long document)
English Language Requirements Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application): Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following: Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved
Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above
IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5* for Business, Arts, Humanities or Education programmes. Minimum score of 6.0* for Science, Engineering, Informatics or Electronics programmes *with no less than 6 in any one component.
English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1
GCE ‘O’ level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above
University of Cambridge ESOL –Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade A
GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6
