MA Political Psychology

at Bournemouth University

Core units
 

• Social Theory & Political Communication: This unit highlights the wider theoretical underpinnings of analysis of political communication and provides an introduction to the broader contextual and conceptual basis in which political communication is conducted. It considers the complex theoretical environment within which politics (political actors and political structures) communications (media actors, structures and technologies) and the public (including politics from below, e.g. activists and social movements) interact.
• The Psychodynamics of Emotion & Political Culture: This unit offers a new interdisciplinary perspective on the psycho-dynamics of contemporary political culture. The unit applies a psychosocial, interdisciplinary approach that draws on theories and methods in psychoanalysis, cultural and media studies and political sociology to explore the cultural and emotional processes that shape our relationship to politics in the late modern, media age.
• Methods of Inquiry in the Social Sciences & Humanities: This unit prepares you for the Final Project through an overview of the methods and processes of social science and humanities research and workshops in which you will consider the application of methods to your topics of interest.
• Psychosocial Perspectives on Contemporary Politics: This unit aims to review psychosocial approaches to contemporary political phenomena, (such as populism, “culture wars”, feminism, anti-racist struggle and environmental politics) while also placing them in cultural and historical contexts. Theoretical approaches to human subjectivity applied to case studies enable sophisticated contributions to debates about extremism, conflict and antagonism as well as democratic and egalitarian endeavours.
• The Psychology of Democracy: This unit provides an in-depth examination of the origins and factors that shape feelings and attitudes towards the institutions and processes within a democratic state. Covering the influence that political campaigns and media play, the unit analyses how our psychologies help to shape different forms and levels of participation in democratic life, from simple thinking about the news through to street activism.
• Final Project: You will choose your topic in consultation with academic staff, and will be guided in the application to a study of that topic of research findings and theoretical concepts from all the taught units. The project can be either a 15,000-word dissertation or a 10,000-word journal paper plus presentation.

The normal requirements for embarking upon a postgraduate taught degree are:
 

• A Bachelors Honours degree with 2:2 in any subject. 

If you lack the formal academic qualifications needed to enter a postgraduate or post-experience degree, there are several alternative routes to follow - some based on experience. 

​Additional costs

We are committed to offering you value for money and ensuring there are no hidden costs while you are studying with us, therefore we have listed below any additional costs you may incur that are not covered by your tuition fee:
 

• Laptops, tablets and mobile devices and any software used on personal devices. Access to a personal computer is strongly recommended for your study. If you are experiencing financial difficulty.
• Textbooks, general stationery and other supplies. Our award-winning library is stocked with a large range of textbooks and online resources, free of charge. The Students’ Union shops stock a wide range of stationery supplies on both campuses.
• Accommodation and living costs. 
• Travel costs to and from the University campus. An annual bus pass can be purchased alongside your rent if you are living in halls of residence/Unilet accommodation or may be purchased separately.
• Travel costs to and from your placement (both in the UK and overseas) if this is part of your course of study. 
• Travel costs for optional field trips, outdoor wear and footwear for mandatory and optional field trips (if applicable).
• Clothing or equipment costs required for your placement if this is part of your course of study.
• SportBU membership.

While all aspects of the programme, including required field trips, are included in the fee, additional, optional or extra curricula activities may be available for which a student contribution is required.

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.