MPhil in Politics (Political Theory)

University of Oxford

The MPhil in Politics (Political Theory) is an advanced two-year postgraduate degree, which provides training in research techniques and methodology and enables you to acquire substantive knowledge in this sub-area of the discipline. It is also suitable if you wish to later embark upon doctoral research.Course structureYear oneIn the first year, you must complete:Core classes and tutorials in the theory of politics.A programme of research methods training, which includes courses in approaches to the study of political theory, reasoning in contemporary political philosophy and problems of method in the history of political thought.Year twoIn the second year you will:Write a thesis.Complete two specialist option papers. Options offered in recent years have included:Imperialism in 20th Century Political ThoughtPolitical Theories of Hegel and MarxMitigating Historical InjusticeCritical TheoryContemporary Political PhilosophyNormative Political Economy: The Ethics of Economic Systems and Social PolicyReasonable Disagreement and Political ArgumentAssessmentProgression to the second year is conditional on passing examinations and/or coursework in research methods as well as the core course.At the end of the course, you will complete two option papers of your choice assessed by examination or coursework and submit a thesis.

Politics and International Relations