Politics and International Studies MRes
University of Bath Campus, United Kingdom
MRes Politics and International Studies
University of Bath
Politics and International Studies
Program Overview: MRes Politics and International Studies
The MRes Politics and International Studies at the University of Bath is a research-focused master's degree designed to provide high-quality training to potential doctoral students, as well as essential research skills valued across the private and public sectors. You will develop advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods alongside a deep understanding of political and international development research.
This program equips you with a hybrid skill set that combines quantitative, computing, and analytical skills with an understanding of political and international development research and enquiry. Alongside developing your research skills, you will explore wide themes in politics and international studies through a variety of optional units covering areas such as international relations in the South and Central Asia region.
The MRes is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as part of the South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP). It can be taken as a standalone qualification or as a 1+3 pathway leading to PhD study, making it an ideal stepping stone for an academic or professional research career.
Key Program Highlights
- ESRC-recognised program as part of the South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP), with a direct 1+3 MRes-to-PhD pathway available
- Advanced training in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including large-scale data analysis and comparative approaches
- Flexible study options with full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) modes available
- Taught by active researchers within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences who bring real-world expertise into the classroom
Curriculum and Modules
The MRes Politics and International Studies curriculum combines core research training modules with optional units that allow you to tailor your studies to your interests. You will complete approximately 20 credits of optional units alongside compulsory core modules that build your methodological and analytical foundations.
Scopes and Methods of Politics and International Relations
6 CreditsThis core unit provides a general background of the methods used by social scientists in the empirical study of their disciplines, covering different approaches to comparative analysis and key issues in positive and normative social inquiry.
Research Apprenticeship Project (MRes)
6 CreditsThis core module supports you within an active research community in identifying and investigating your own original research questions on a modest scale, building practical experience in independent research.
Develop skills in the analysis of large-scale data sets, learning key techniques for drawing in-depth quantitative insights within a politics and international studies context.
Explore qualitative approaches to political research, including interview techniques, discourse analysis, and case study methodologies essential for social science inquiry.
Examine the philosophical foundations of social science research, including epistemological and ontological debates, and learn to design robust research projects.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MRes Politics and International Studies is competitive and requires a strong academic background in a relevant discipline. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree ClassificationBachelor's honours degree or international equivalent, typically a 2:1 (Upper Second Class) or above
- Relevant DisciplinesUndergraduate degree in European studies, international relations, modern languages, politics, history, economics, or sociology
- International EquivalenceFour-year Bachelor degree from a recognised university, or a Master's degree following a three- or four-year Bachelor degree, with a final result of at least 65% or 3.25/4.0
- Personal StatementA maximum 500-word personal statement explaining why you wish to undertake a Master of Research and the interests and skills you hope to develop
- Lower Grade ConsiderationOffers may be made based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree
English Language Requirements
- IELTS6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
- TOEFL iBT90 overall with a minimum of 21 in all four components
- PTE Academic62 overall with no less than 59 in any element
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Bath offers a range of generous scholarships for international postgraduate students, backed by a multimillion-pound global scholarship fund. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the funding opportunities best suited to your profile.
Bath Global Excellence Scholarship
GBP 10,000Up to 250 scholarships available for high-achieving international students joining a full-time taught master's course. Awards are based on academic excellence, leadership, and global outlook.
GREAT Scholarships (British Council Partnership)
At least GBP 10,000Offered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, these scholarships are available for students from eligible countries enrolling in full-time postgraduate taught master's programmes.
ESRC SWDTP Studentship (1+3 Pathway)
Fully funded (covers fees and living costs)Competitive fully-funded studentships through the South West Doctoral Training Partnership for students pursuing the 1+3 MRes-to-PhD pathway. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility and application details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
There is increasing demand for high-level quantitative and qualitative research skills from a wide range of private and public sector recruiters. Many firms and government departments are now committed to data-driven decision-making, making graduates of this program highly sought after in research, policy, and analytical roles.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Bath is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom and globally. It holds strong positions across multiple major ranking systems, reflecting its commitment to research excellence, graduate employability, and student satisfaction.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Politics | Guardian University Guide | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Social Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 200 |
| Business and Management | Guardian University Guide | #3 in UK |
| Sustainability | QS World University Rankings | #92 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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