Course Overview

Our MSc Social and Political Theory explores pressing contemporary issues using political theory and sociology. Our focus is on the nature and workings of political power and authority and we will consider the relationships between states and societies, and the place of politics and power in everyday life.

As well as reading key classical texts of political theory and sociological analysis, we also analyze real-world contemporary problems and address fundamental questions of political power and social order. You will examine how political power originates and operates at an individual, social and political level, its relationship to sovereignty and the state, and how it intersects with issues such as justice and human rights, civil identity, democracy, and economics. You will be equipped with the conceptual ideas, theoretical approaches, and analytical research skills needed to study politics at the postgraduate level.

Graduates can pursue career paths in the media and journalism, local and national government, diplomatic services, policy research, political lobbying, the voluntary sector, teaching, and research. Possible professions include:

• political lobbyist

• diplomatic services operational officer

• high education lecturer

• government social research officer

• charity officer

• newspaper journalist.

We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.

General Eligibility

A second-class honors degree (2:2) or above in social science or another relevant subject.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.