Masters degrees

We offer a wide range of taught Masters (MA and MSc) programmes, as well as Postgraduate Diplomas, Certificates and other qualifications that can be taken on a full-time, part-time or modular basis. For most Masters degree programmes you need to have a good degree (usually at least a 2:1) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. Some Masters degrees have additional requirements such as relevant work experience. MA / MSc programmes are a year in duration, while Diploma / Certificate courses are usually nine months (see individual programme descriptions for details). Taught masters programmes are assessed by a combination of coursework, examination and dissertation.

We also offer a wide range of Continuing professional development (CPD) options from degrees to accredited short courses and seminars. All of our CPD courses are designed to reflect work-based practice, while also benefiting from the internationally significant research that is inherent in our strong academic knowledge base. 

Equality and Diversity

In the School of Government, we are committed to creating a caring, accessible and inclusive environment in which everyone feels they belong, fit, and may thrive. We welcome, value, and embrace diversity in our staff and student body, such as differences in nationality, cultural backgrounds, race, ethnicity, disability, age, class, religion or belief, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. 

We aim to embed this commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in our teaching and learning practices, our tutorials, our extensive module choices, our curriculum, student representatives and groups, welfare services, research, and the wide range of events and seminars organised. The School of Government will not tolerate any form of bullying, harassment or discrimination.

The University of Birmingham currently holds a Bronze Athena SWAN Charter Award. Its Equality Scheme ‘Advancing Equality, Valuing Diversity’ document sets out the equality objectives and actions for 2016-20. The latest Equality and Diversity Annual Report (2017) details work undertaken over the last year to meet our equality objectives.

Degrees and courses throughout the School

Conflict and  Cooperation 


International Political Economy



Fees and funding

For entry in September, fees are:

International Development Department

Fees for 2023-24

UK students

  • Full-time £10,980
  • Part-time £5,490

International students

  • Full-time £22,950

Course information: IDD Masters degrees

Department of Political Science and International Studies

Masters degree fees 2023-2024
  Full time Part time
UK £10,170 £5,085
International £21,960  -
Postgraduate diploma fees 2023-24
  Full time Part time
UK £6,780 £3,390
International £14,640  -

Course information: POLSIS Masters degrees

Institute of Local Government Studies

INLOGOV MSc fees 2021-22
  Full time Part time
Home students £11,250 £5,625
International students £19,440 -

Course information: INLOGOV Masters degrees

Masters degrees by Distance learning

Distance Learning 2023-24

  • MSc programme fee (six 20 credit modules plus dissertation) £14,007
  • PG Diploma programme fee (six 20 credit modules and no dissertation) £9,660

For our distance learning programmes, we do not distinguish between UK/EU and international students. There is no differential fee.

Related courses

The College of Social Sciences offers an Social Research (MA), which forms the basis for all doctoral student methods training.

Scholarships

Birmingham Masters Scholarship

We are offering over 400 awards of £2,000 to support the brightest and best applicants wishing to undertake Masters study at the University during 2023-24

Enhancing your Student Experience

In the School of Government we offer much more than a degree. As a student here, you have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of events, with some or all of the costs paid for by the School. Some of these are targeted to help you build skills and experience for your CV, others are more open events designed to expose you to high-level speakers on current debates relevant to all School of Government students. Find out how we can enhance your experience.

Your studies are a stepping-stone to an influential career. Whether you're looking to work in industry, for a public organisation or charity, or progress further with your academic studies.