Why should you choose a master’s degree in political science?

Political science is an exciting field that offers a wide range of career prospects. To enter this highly selective sector, it’s important to have solid skills. A Master’s degree is a major asset if you want to excel in this field. Below, we outline the prerequisites, advantages and career opportunities of this course.

In summary:

• A Master’s degree in political science provides specialized expertise and opens up a wide range of career opportunities.
• It is accessible with a bac +3 level or equivalent.
• Salaries in the sector are high, ranging from €2,000 to €3,000 net per month for a junior.
• Career opportunities include policy analyst, teacher-researcher or research manager.
• ESCE offers a Master’s program in political science with specializations and double-diploma opportunities.

What are the prerequisites for a Master’s degree in political science?

To do a Master’s degree in political science, you need to have already completed a bac +3 diploma. It can be a licence, a licence pro or a bachelor’s degree. You are also eligible if you hold an equivalent degree in the humanities and social sciences.

To get into the school of your choice, you need to submit an application. This can be done online or on campus. Some establishments require an entrance exam, while others call for a job interview.

What are the advantages of a Master’s degree in political science?

Specialized expertise

A master’s degree in political science will enable you to delve deeper into the fields of governance and public policy. Our courses will help you master political theory and international relations.

During the program, you’ll learn to understand political mechanisms and analyze contemporary issues. You’ll be tackling a wide range of topics to come up with innovative, practical solutions.

Thanks to what you’ve learned, you’ll be able to make relevant recommendations in a variety of political contexts.

Open doors to a variety of careers

Your skills give you access to different types of jobs in various sectors. Your master’s degree gives you the know-how to make you attractive to a wide range of employers. You can work for government, international organizations, NGOs, the private sector or academic research.

What’s more, with solid language skills, you can look forward to international work opportunities. You are free to work with international organizations. The latter are often looking for professionals with expertise in political science.

Effective communication

In your courses, you’ll be asked to debate complex political issues. This will enable you to hone your argumentation and persuasion skills.

Schools also favor group work. You’ll be setting up projects in collaboration with other students. This encourages conflict management.

Oral presentations are an integral part of Master’s programs in political science. This makes it easier to speak up.

Critical analysis

Master’s students in political science are required to examine complex political concepts. Case studies and comparative analyses help you develop critical thinking skills. You also need to do some research to find solid arguments.

Ability to influence social and political change

Your training gives you a good understanding of political processes and dynamics. This helps you formulate relevant strategies to bring about positive change in this area. You’ll acquire the knowledge you need to mobilize political players and influence trends.

How much does a Master’s degree in political science pay?

A Master’s degree holder in political science can look forward to an attractive salary thanks to his or her high level of qualifications. Remuneration may vary according to area of expertise and experience.

For a junior political scientist, the salary is around €2,000 net per month. An experienced profile can earn up to €3,000 net per month, or even more.

Careers after a master’s degree in political science

After completing a master’s degree in political science, it is possible to gain access to various positions in different fields, such as :

• government and legal administration: you can choose between policy analyst, advisor or research officer. A number of government organizations may require a master’s degree in political science, including ministries and public agencies;
• the international organization: this may be the United Nations or UN, or the European Union or EU. There is also the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD);
• the academic field: a Master’s degree holder in political science can become a trainer or teacher-researcher to pass on your skills;
• the private sector: it is also possible to work as a consultant in a risk analysis consultancy.

Where can I study for a master’s degree in political science?

ESCE offers a master’ s program in political science. This high-quality, multi-disciplinary training program prepares you for techniques in international trade, management and administration.

Once you’ve completed your studies, you can opt for one of the 11 specializations offered in ESCE’s Master’s program. You can also pursue a double-diploma in Political Science with our partner school, HEIP.

Updated 14 May 2024