Master's Programme in Political Science
Summary
The Master’s Programme in Political Science (MaPS) is a two-year programme taught in English that leads to a Degree of Master of Science in Political Science. The programme provides you with advanced competence to analyze and address societal and political issues from a political science and research-oriented perspective.
You will develop skills in critical assessment, research design, and data analysis – abilities that are highly valued in qualified professional careers within politics, public administration, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. The degree also qualifies you for doctoral studies in political science.
About
This two-year master’s programme prepares you for a career focused on the advanced analysis of politics and societal issues. Our alumni include diplomats, researchers, policy advisors, consultants, project managers, and analysts, among others.
Programme structure and content
The first semester of the programme begins with a course in political science analysis, followed by a course in research design. The second part of the semester is devoted to studies in quantitative methods.
During the second semester of the programme, you can choose between several in-depth courses that are closely connected to the department’s research. These courses address topics such as voting behaviour and political participation, quality of government, corruption, democratization and democratic backsliding, as well as environmental politics.
During the third semester, you can choose to take in-depth courses in political science and research methods at the University of Gothenburg or at a university abroad. You may also choose to do an internship, either for a full semester or for half a semester combined with courses.
The fourth semester is devoted to the degree project, where you apply the skills and knowledge you have acquired during the programme. Under the supervision of leading researchers, you plan and carry out an independent study.
Overall, the programme equips you with knowledge and skills that are valuable in qualified professional roles in both the public and private sectors.
Double degree option
You can also study the Master’s Programme in Political Science as a double degree. This option is offered in cooperation with the University of Konstanz, Germany. In the double degree track, you study the first year at the University of Konstanz and the second year at the University of Gothenburg.
More information about the double degree.
Who should apply?
Are you aiming for a career in global or domestic politics, public administration, or civil society? Our programme attracts ambitious students from many different countries. The degree also qualifies you for doctoral studies in political science.
You will meet dedicated teachers who will provide an academically rigorous and career-oriented education and expect the highest level of academic integrity.
The programme consists of joint activities such as lectures, seminar discussions, and oral presentations, as well as literature studies and independent work involving your own analyses and investigations.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Eligible for the programme is the one who has
- a Bachelor's degree of 180 credits, or equivalent
- at least 60 credits in the main field of political science (of which at least 30 credits from in-depth course), or equivalent.
- English proficiency equivalent of English 6 or English level 2, or equivalent.
Any other entry requirements are documented in the respective course syllabus.
Special instructions for application
For more information about the entrance requirements and selection criteria, follow the link below. Please note that your application should include a Statement of Intent. For requirements on the document, see the link.
More information about Special instructions for application
Selection
The selection is based on average grades from the Bachelor’s degree and submitted Statement of intent (use the assigned form). These shall be uploaded on www.universityadmissions.se no later than February 2 (if you apply in the first admission round) and May 2 (if you apply in the second admission round).
After graduation
Graduates of the programme receive the degree Master of Science in Political Science. The degree gives you a strong competitive edge for a qualified professional career and makes you eligible to apply for doctoral studies in political science.
Facilities
The Department is located in Campus Haga, which lies right in the centre of the city of Gothenburg.
More information about facilities
Exchange opportunities
During your studies, you have the opportunity to spend one semester abroad. We cooperate with universities in countries such as the Netherlands, the United States, and South Korea. Start planning your exchange studies early so that you know when to go and when to apply.
More information about exchange opportunities
Internship
An internship prepares you for your future professional life. You gain perspectives, skills, and opportunities to make contacts that will be valuable when it’s time to look for a job. On the Student Portal, you can find all the information about internships and the applicable regulations for studies at the Department of Political Science.
You are responsible for finding and applying for an internship yourself, but it must be approved by the Department of Political Science. One of the requirements is that the internship offers qualified tasks that involve independent analytical work, allowing you to develop the knowledge and skills you have gained during your studies. Common internship placements include embassies, government agencies, consultancy firms, and international organisations such as the EU and the UN.
