What Can You Do a Master’s In Outside of Politics as a Politics Student?
A degree in Politics opens more doors than you might think. While many graduates naturally consider continuing their studies in political science or international relations, the skills developed during a Politics degree — critical thinking, analytical research, persuasive communication, and a deep understanding of societal systems — can be applied to a wide range of postgraduate pathways.
If you’re studying Politics and wondering what else is out there, here’s a look at the diverse range of master’s programmes you could pursue outside of traditional political studies:
International and Global-Focused Programmes
For students interested in global challenges, development, or human rights, there are plenty of routes that draw on your political knowledge while branching into new territory. Popular options include:
- International Development
- Human Rights
- Conflict and Peace Studies
- Migration Studies
- Global Health
- Climate Change and Sustainability
These programmes often lead to careers in NGOs, international organisations, policy think tanks, or global consultancies.
Humanities and Social Sciences
If you’re fascinated by how societies work, interact, and evolve, a master’s in a related humanities or social science field might be the perfect fit. Many Politics graduates pursue:
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Cultural Studies
- History (especially political, global, or modern history)
- Philosophy or Political Philosophy
- Area Studies (such as African, Middle Eastern, or Asian Studies)
These paths are great for academic research, media, cultural diplomacy, or non-profit work.
Business, Economics, and Management
Politics students are increasingly drawn to the business world, particularly in roles involving strategy, communication, and global operations. You might consider:
- Public Policy and Management
- International Business
- Development Economics
- Marketing or Strategic Communications
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) (often after some work experience)
These programmes open doors to corporate, consulting, or non-profit leadership roles.
Law and Criminology
If law or justice piques your interest, your Politics degree has already given you a head start. Potential postgraduate routes include:
- Graduate Law (GDL or SQE Conversion) — for those planning to become solicitors or barristers
- Criminology
- International or Humanitarian Law (LLM) — often with a focus on global justice, rights, or conflict
Technology, Data, and Media
As the world becomes more digitally driven, new interdisciplinary programmes are emerging that blend politics with technology and communication. Consider:
- Data Science for Social Research
- Digital Humanities
- Cybersecurity and Policy
- AI Ethics and Governance
- Journalism or Digital Media Studies
These routes are especially suited to careers at the intersection of public policy, media, and innovation.
Public Service and Administration
If your aim is to shape public life and governance, a master’s in one of the following areas could position you for civil service, non-profit, or international work:
- Public Administration
- Public Policy
- Urban Planning
- Education Policy
These degrees are highly valued by local and national governments, charities, and intergovernmental bodies.
Education and Teaching
For those who want to inspire the next generation, education-based routes are a great option:
- PGCE or Teacher Training — especially in subjects like Politics, Citizenship, or History
- Education Studies
- Comparative or International Education
This is a fulfilling path for anyone passionate about social development or policy in action.
Career-Specific or Niche Areas
There are also several exciting niche or interdisciplinary programmes that suit Politics students with specific interests. These might include:
- Security Studies / Intelligence and Strategic Studies
- Environmental Policy
- Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Ethics / Humanitarian Studies
These degrees are ideal for students aiming to specialise in emerging global challenges.