Program Overview
The Political Science (Research Methods) PGDip at University of Birmingham is a MA programme in Social Sciences over 12 months, delivered On-campus. This programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge and practical skills for professional and academic careers in the field.
Students gain a rigorous grounding in both the theoretical foundations and applied dimensions of social sciences. The programme combines coursework, research components, and practical projects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and specialist expertise relevant to industry and research needs.
Graduates of the Political Science (Research Methods) PGDip programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and the private sector across United Kingdom and internationally. The programme provides an internationally recognised qualification within the Bologna higher education framework.
Key Program Features
- Duration: 12 months
- Language of instruction: English
- Study mode: On-campus
- English requirement: IELTS 6.5
- Tuition: GBP 14,850 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 6,570 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
- Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Political Science (Research Methods) PGDip programme are prepared for diverse careers in social sciences:
- Policy Analyst
- NGO Programme Manager
- Researcher
- Social Worker
- Diplomat
- Development Consultant
Program Curriculum
Course Structure
- This degree comprises the following modules:
- 20 credits - Developments in Contemporary Political Analysis
- 20 credits - Social Research Methods I
- 20 credits - Social Research Methods II
- 20 credits - Research Design
- 20 credits - Introduction to Social Science Research
- 60 credits - Dissertation MA students to submit a 13,500 word dissertation (not applicable to Diploma Students)
- 20 credits - Contemporary Themes and Issues in British Politics
- 20 credits - Terrorism and Political Violence
- 20 credits - Politics and the State
- 20 credits - Global Ethics 1
- 20 credits - Global Ethics 2
- 20 credits - Theory and Ethics of Terrorism and Political Violence
- 20 credits - Ethical Dimensions of Terrorism, Political Violence and War
- 20 credits - Democracy, Power and Citizenship
- 20 credits - Social Theory and Critique: Contested Knowledge
- 20 credits - Social Theory: From Marxism To Post Marxism
- 20 credits - Revolution And Enlightenment (Political Ideas A)
- 20 credits - Totalitarianism And The State (Political Ideas B)
- 20 credits - Migration, Superdiversity, Policy and Practice (IASS)
- 20 credits - Globalisation, International Migration and Citizenship (IASS)
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
For the MA programme you require a good Honours degree or its equivalent. For those whose first language is not English, an IELTS Certificate is required.
English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 14,850 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 6,570 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
Tuition fees: GBP 14,850 (Tuition (Year)) — International students; GBP 6,570 (Tuition (Year)) — EU/EEA students
IELTS requirement: 6.5
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact University of Birmingham directly for scholarship, grant, and financial aid information for this programme. Many European universities offer merit-based and need-based funding for international and domestic students.
About University of Birmingham
University of Birmingham
Birmingham, United Kingdom
University of Birmingham is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields. The...
University Profile- Start Date in 2026
- Language English
- Duration 12 months