Master in Politics Pgdip

Tuition fees are 20,800 GBP per year. The application deadline for the Nov 2027 intake is Aug 15, 2027.

Graduates of this programme often move into roles in policy analysis, public administration, political research, advocacy, and international relations. By developing a sophisticated grasp of contemporary political challenges, students gain the analytical and communication skills necessary to navigate complex institutional environments, whether in government, the non-profit sector, or global organizations.

The PgDip Politics is a flexible, broad-based programme designed for those seeking a rigorous foundation in political science. Students engage deeply with core theories and contemporary debates, ranging from energy transitions and climate change to ethnic conflict, gender, and democratic legitimacy. Situated in Belfast—a city globally recognized as a model for peace-building and conflict transformation—the programme offers a unique vantage point on the interplay between regional, national, and European politics.

Distinctive Learning Experience

Students benefit from the expertise of active researchers and policy-engaged academics. Distinctive features include:

• Policy-Focused Curriculum: Opportunities to produce policy briefs and practical solutions for real-world scenarios.
• Field Experience: A school-funded trip to Brussels to visit key institutions, including the European Parliament, European Commission, and NATO.
• Research-Led Teaching: Direct access to research networks in gender studies, political economy, and Irish politics.
• Belfast Context: Studying in a location where the contest of ideas is an everyday reality.

Queen's University Belfast is a historic and research-led university located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded as Queen's College Belfast in 1845 and established as an independent university in 1908, Queen's combines a long heritage with modern ambitions. The campus sits within a designated conservation area and serves a diverse community of around 24,915 students, including roughly 3,500 international students, creating a lively and inclusive environment for study and social life.

Academically, Queen's is a Russell Group member with strong disciplinary strengths and a clear focus on employability. The university hosts four flagship Global Research Institutes addressing Global Peace, Security and Justice; Cyber Security; Health Sciences; and Food Safety, offering students opportunities to engage with impactful research. Career-facing initiatives such as Degree Plus and targeted employer workshops enhance internships, placements and graduate prospects, while sustained investment in campus infrastructure has delivered new teaching facilities, a student centre and a cutting-edge clinical simulation centre for health-related programmes.

For international students, Belfast offers an affordable and welcoming city experience with rich cultural life and efficient transport links across the UK and Ireland. University support services help with arrival, visas and accommodation, and a variety of clubs, societies and volunteering options make it easy to build networks and gain practical experience. Queen's is a strong choice for students seeking rigorous teaching, active research opportunities and clear pathways into careers in the UK and beyond.