Political Sociology (Russia and Eastern Europe)

Enhance your understanding of political dynamics and social processes within Russia and Eastern Europe through the Political Sociology (Russia and Eastern Europe) programme at University College London. This interdisciplinary course provides students with a comprehensive exploration of the political and social transformations that have shaped the region from the late 19th century to the present day. Through rigorous analysis of political institutions, social movements, power structures, and cultural factors, students will develop critical insights into the complexities of governance, identity, and societal change in this diverse and historically significant area. The programme offers a blend of theoretical frameworks and empirical research, encouraging students to examine case studies and contemporary issues such as democratization, authoritarianism, nationalism, and EU integration. Participants will engage with a range of disciplines including political science, sociology, history, and area studies to grasp the multifaceted nature of political sociology in the context of Eastern Europe and Russia. Taught by leading experts in the field, the course combines lectures, seminars, and research projects designed to foster analytical skills and original thinking. Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped for careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, journalism, or governmental roles focused on Eastern Europe and Russia. The programme's location within UCL offers access to extensive resources, research opportunities, and a vibrant academic community dedicated to studying the political and social challenges of the region. Whether you are interested in historical processes, current political developments, or social movements, this programme provides a solid foundation for understanding the forces shaping Russia and Eastern Europe today.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

In your first year you will follow a common syllabus, taking modules in human structure and function (anatomy, physiology, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics), and human interactions (anthropology and psychology). Students may also choose between the modules Human Ecology, Revealing Science, and a module in a modern foreign language.

In year two you will take the compulsory modules The Human Sciences in Society (in which you will work in a group to explore a topic of your group's choice within the social sciences) and Introductory Statistical Methods and Computing. In year three your compulsory module is the Human Sciences Seminar Project in which you will write a dissertation on a topic related to human evolution. You will choose your remaining modules in years two and three from the extensive range of options offered by Anthropology and Biosciences.

Subject to satisfactory performance in years one and two, students have the option of undertaking a 2.0 credits field course module at the Turkana Basin Institute in Kenya in either the Autumn or Spring Term.

In year four you will carry out a research project and choose modules in human evolutionary sciences.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

Science subject required, preferably Biology.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade B. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A total of 18 points in three higher level subjects including science (preferably Biology at grade 6), with no score below 5.

The MSc in Political Sociology (Russia and Eastern Europe) at University College London offers diverse financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for international students are set annually and are published on the university’s official website. Additionally, there are various scholarship opportunities, including UCL postgraduate scholarships, departmental awards, and external funding sources tailored for students specializing in social sciences or regional studies. Applicants are encouraged to explore the UCL Scholarships and Funding webpage to identify grants that suit their circumstances.

Students may also consider teaching and research assistantships which, in some cases, provide stipends or tuition fee waivers in exchange for work performed within the university. UCL often facilitates part-time work opportunities through its career services, allowing students to finance their studies while gaining relevant professional experience. Moreover, students from the European Union and other international regions should review specific financial aid provisions, as these can differ based on residency status. The university also offers guidance in applying for external scholarships, government grants, and funding from research councils that support region-specific studies, including programs focused on Russia and Eastern Europe.

It is important for prospective students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documentation for each funding source. Financial planning should also include budgeting for living expenses, which vary depending on the student's accommodation choice and lifestyle. UCL’s finance office provides detailed information on estimated costs and available loans or bursaries. Additionally, the university occasionally updates and introduces new funding schemes; therefore, applicants are advised to regularly check official communications.

Overall, students pursuing the MSc in Political Sociology (Russia and Eastern Europe) have access to a comprehensive range of financial aid options designed to facilitate their studies and research activities. Combining scholarships, part-time work, and external funding sources, students can effectively manage the costs associated with their postgraduate education at UCL.

The Political Sociology (Russia and Eastern Europe) program at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the political dynamics, social structures, and historical contexts that shape the political landscapes of Russia and Eastern Europe. This interdisciplinary program combines sociology, political science, and area studies to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the regional political systems, governance, and social movements in these areas. Students will examine topics such as authoritarian regimes, democratization processes, nationalism, civil society, and the impact of globalization on Eastern European countries and Russia. The curriculum includes core modules on political sociology theories, regional politics, and social change, supplemented by research methods courses that equip students with analytical and empirical skills. Throughout the program, students engage in case studies, empirical research, and critical analysis aimed at understanding the complex socio-political phenomena unique to the region. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, policymaking, international organizations, NGOs, and journalism, particularly in roles requiring expertise in Eastern European political and social issues. It encourages critical thinking, advanced research skills, and an appreciation of the historical and contemporary challenges faced by the region. The program is typically delivered over one year for full-time students or two years for part-time students, with a balance of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research. Graduates of this program will gain a nuanced perspective on the political sociology of Russia and Eastern Europe, enabling them to analyze current developments and contribute to policy discussions or further academic research. The university’s strong links with policymakers, research institutions, and regional experts ensure a rich academic environment that fosters engaging learning experiences and professional development.

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