Political Theory

Entry requirements

A 2:1 degree or equivalent in any discipline.

English higher level.

Months of entry

September

Course content

About this MSc programme

Political theory is the study of the good society. Public debate is dominated by controversies such as what justice requires of citizens and the state; what the most important rights and liberties are; and what protection there should be for minorities in majoritarian democracies.

Political theory provides a scholarly examination of these questions, informed by adjacent debates in moral philosophy, legal theory, historical study, and political science. Currently, there are eight political theorists in the Department of Government, which is one of the largest concentrations of specialists in the world. Staff research interests are in diverse areas including comparative political theory, contemporary normative theory, the history of political thought, feminist theory, and rational and social choice theory. We aim to address issues in a global context.

The programme includes a compulsory course and a wide range of optional courses, and you will also complete a dissertation on an approved topic of your choice. The programme is a good preparation for further research work, or for a career in education, public administration, NGOs or the private sector.

Department of Government

The Department of Government is a world-leading centre for study and research in politics and government. It is one of the largest political science departments in the UK, and covers almost all areas of politics. The Department offer a comprehensive range of academic approaches, from political theory, political economy, rational choice theory, public policy, nationalism, conflict studies, and comparative government to the history of institutions and policy. It is home to some of the most internationally respected experts in politics and government. Many faculty members have particular regional expertise on Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and/or Latin America. The Department produce influential research that has a global impact on policy.

Information for international students

For country-specific information regarding entry requirements, fees, and scholarships avaliable, please visit LSE's country pages.

Fees and funding

Every graduate student is charged a fee for their programme.

This programme is eligible for needs-based awards from LSE, including the Graduate Support Scheme, Master's Awards and Anniversary Scholarships.

More information on funding and scholarships can be found on the LSE website.

Qualification and course duration

MSc