Applying for an MA programme

The application process

Academic entry requirements

The main criterion for admission to an MA programme in the Department of Politics and International Relations is a 2.1 BA degree or international equivalent. We are willing to consider applications from students with lower qualifications, particularly when the student has high marks in relevant modules and/or appropriate professional experience. 

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English may need to satisfy language requirements.

The Department of Politics and International Relations has a higher minimum level than the University more generally because of the more difficult nature of the literature that Politics students must engage with. The departmental requirements are:

IELTS: 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in each component)

The University accepts other evidence of English language attainment; please see the Postgraduate Admissions web pages.

Deadline for applications

As far as the Department is concerned, there is no formal deadline for the receipt of applications, but most funding bodies have strict deadlines which you should be aware of.

Students who require a visa to study in the UK should also allow sufficient time to obtain the necessary visa before the first semester starts.

There is only one intake for MA programmes; all students must start their MA programme in September. 

How to make an application

Applications should be made online. 

Applications for postgraduate courses in Politics are handled by the Postgraduate Admissions team. Application forms and other information can be accessed through their web pages.

Apply now

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Fast-track your application

Normally, we won't begin to consider whether we can offer you a place for graduate study in the Department until we have received the necessary supporting documents.

As well as your formal application (which should include a personal statement) we will need:

• your academic transcript; if your course is not complete, please submit an interim transcript
• One academic reference
• A sample of written work

If you need to satisfy the English language entry requirements, and you already have the evidence, please submit the evidence with your application.

Where all of the above documents are included with an application we aim to recommend a decision within six weeks.

Other documents and the personal statement

You may upload a CV if you wish, but uploading a CV is optional.

A good personal statement will communicate clearly why you have chosen to apply for a particular degree programme. It will explain concisely how your previous experience (academic and / or professional) has prepared you for study at the postgraduate level.

Incomplete applications

If we do not receive all of your supporting documents within a reasonable period of time, we may decide to withdraw your application. We will notify you if we decide to take this course of action.