Overview

Why Politics at Birkbeck, University of London?

Birkbeck is globally recognised for its impactful research in the field of politics. The university boasts a strong reputation, supported by its affiliation with the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which provides funding opportunities through 1+3 studentships for students pursuing both a Master's and a PhD. The Birkbeck Institute for Social Research and the Birkbeck Centre for British Political Life are key resources, offering access to leading scholars and a vibrant academic community. The central London location further enhances the learning experience, placing students at the heart of the UK's political landscape.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the MRes in Politics, the tuition fees for the academic year 2026-27 are as follows:

• Full-time international students: £22,230 per year
• Part-time international students: £11,115 per year
• Full-time home students: £12,000 per year
• Part-time home students: £6,000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MRes in Politics consists of core modules that strengthen foundational research skills, alongside optional modules that allow for specialisation in various political topics. The course structure includes:

• Core Modules:
  • Advanced Topics in Quantitative Social Research
  • Applied Social Data Analysis in R
  • Experiments in Social Science
  • Introduction to Quantitative Social Research
  • Qualitative Research Design
  • Qualitative Social Research Methods
• Indicative Option Modules:
  • Chinese Politics in Comparative Perspective
  • Emerging Powers in World Politics
  • Food, Politics, and Society (Level 7)
  • Global Politics, Governance and Security
  • Governing Global Capitalism
  • International Political Economy
  • Nationalism, Religion, and Conflict
  • Political Communications: Media, Campaigns, and Citizens
  • Political Theory and Contemporary Politics
  • Power and Politics in the UK
  • Public Policy: Interests, Ideas, Institutions
  • War, Politics and Society

The programme culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to apply their acquired skills to address a specific research question.

Careers with Politics

Graduates of the MRes in Politics are well-prepared for diverse career paths in various sectors. Alumni have successfully secured positions in governmental and advisory roles, policy research, journalism, and academia. Potential job titles include:

• Civil Service fast-streamer
• Higher education lecturer
• Government social research officer
• Politician’s assistant
• Local government officer
• Newspaper journalist
• Public relations officer

Birkbeck provides robust career support, ensuring that students can effectively transition into their chosen fields after graduation.