COURSE CURRICULUM

The M.Sc. in International Politics at Trinity College Dublin is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time postgraduate program structured across three academic terms and totaling 90 ECTS. The course combines taught modules with an independent research dissertation, with the final term dedicated to completing a 10,000-word dissertation worth 30 ECTS. Teaching is primarily delivered through weekly seminars that emphasise discussion, critical engagement, and continuous assessment, including participation, short assignments, and research papers. Some modules, such as Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods, also include lecture-based teaching. Students are required to attend classes regularly and may also complete written work during study breaks. The curriculum consists of four compulsory modules: International Politics, International Conflict, Research Design, and Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods, providing a strong foundation in political analysis and research skills. In addition, students select four elective modules from a rotating list that may include topics such as EU politics, international development, Russian politics, Middle Eastern politics, global justice, political economy, authoritarianism, inequality, and qualitative research methods. Overall, the program develops advanced theoretical and methodological skills in political science, preparing students for careers in research, policy analysis, international organisations, civil service, and further doctoral study in international politics.