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One-year MA Program in Politics

Welcome to the One-year MA Program in Politics at CEU! Each year, our department welcomes approximately 20 students to this dynamic and rigorous program.

Class photo 2024

Program Overview

Our program requires students to earn 30 course credits for both the Austrian and US-accredited degrees. Courses typically earn two credits each. 

You can view the sample study plan here: MA1 Program Study Plan

Student Experience

The program is highly intensive, compacted into a shorter timeframe, but it covers a broad spectrum of topics within key areas of political science. With a seminar-based format and small class sizes, students benefit from a low instructor-to-student ratio, fostering dynamic discussions and in-depth engagement with both the instructor and peers.

- Koichi Osamura MA'22, Brazil

Core Modules

The core modules in the program cover key theoretical and methodological fields that everyone should master who graduates from an MA in Political Science program.

They are organized into four groups:

  • Political Theory
  • Comparative Politics
  • Political Economy 
  • Research Methods

Students must take at least 4 credits each from two modules, and at least 2 credits each from the remaining two. 

Specialization

Specialization is a key component of our MA program. Students must specialize in a field of their choice, earning six credits in courses related to that field. Additionally, students must write their MA thesis on a topic related to their specialization.

Fields of specialization:

    Comparative Politics

    Study political institutions, social structures, and behavior from a global perspective. Perfect for roles in international organizations, think-tanks, and government.

    Political Economy

    Explore the intersection of economics and politics. Ideal for careers in civil service, business sectors, and policy analysis.

    Research Methods and Techniques

    Gain advanced skills in statistical methods and research techniques. Suitable for roles in research, consultancy, and academia.

    Social and Political Theory

    Dive into normative political theory, justice, and democracy. Prepare for Ph.D. studies, policy analysis, and roles in NGOs.

    Political Behavior

    Understand political psychology, public opinion, and voting. Excellent for data-driven roles in non-profits and for-profit organizations.

    Democracy and Social Change

    Examine democratic institutions and social dynamics. Ideal for careers in policy analysis, social movements, and doctoral studies.

    Electives and Cross-listed Courses

    In addition to mandatory courses, students can choose from MA courses offered by other CEU departments and programs, provided they are cross-listed with the Political Science Department. MA students are also allowed to take one PhD-level Political Science course per academic year.

    MA Thesis

    Students must submit and defend an MA thesis of approximately 12,000 words, worth 6 credits. Please refer to the 2025/26 Deadlines for the Submission of MA Theses for detailed information.

    Additional Resources

    • Student Handbook: For comprehensive information on degree requirements, program structure, and policies, please refer to the PDF icon Student Handbook.
    • Departmental Presentation: Download the PDF icon departmental presentation for more insights into our program.
    • Cross-listed Courses: explore the available cross-listed courses