MA Political Psychology

This course offers a unique opportunity to study how psychological insights can throw light on politics. What are the roots of political violence? What drives shifts in public opinion? Why do some people become activists, while others never get involved? How does propaganda work? What is the appeal of the political ideologies to which some devote their lives? What makes for effective political leadership? Is the future democratic?

Learn from academics with a wide range of expertise covering the broad spectrum of political psychology and political communication; Take advantage of the opportunity to study full time or part time, with options to start in January or September; Become well versed in some of the most pervasive issues that shape the parameters for today’s politics; Benefit from regular conferences, public lectures and workshops in Bournemouth and beyond, previous examples include: Professor Candida Yate’s inaugural professorial lecture; conferences organised by BU and the Freud Museum with screen writer Andrew Davies (House of Cards), renowned professor of History from New York Eli Zaretsky and Baroness Hollins; Attend the Association for Psychosocial Studies (APS) reading groups and lectures with speakers from a range of perspective on key political issues; Engage in research and projects alongside staff and students across the Faculty of Media & Communication?; Join events organised by the two Research Centres; The study of Conflict, Emotion & Social Justice (CESJ) and the Centre for Comparative Politics and Media Research (CPMR), students can attend presentations of ongoing research by their members and guest speakers, and contribute to the discussions.

Potential career paths

This course offers a highly relevant, challenging and rich encounter with leading-edge theory and research at the complex intersections of psychology and politics. It provides an interdisciplinary basis for doctoral research in many areas, and will be an attractive basis for the development of careers in academia and research.

It also provides a suitable basis for entry to, or professional development within, careers in political and policy research, strategic work for campaigning groups, and political journalism, as well as offering insights and support for those engaged in democratic participation as professional or local politicians.