Legal and Political Theory

Legal and Political Theory at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the foundational principles and critical debates that underpin modern law and politics. This interdisciplinary programme combines rigorous legal analysis with insightful political philosophy, enabling students to develop a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical frameworks shaping legal systems and political institutions worldwide. Throughout the course, students examine key topics such as justice, authority, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, engaging with both classical philosophical texts and contemporary scholarly debates. The programme is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced perspective on complex legal and political issues, preparing graduates for careers in law, public policy, academia, or related fields. Delivered by leading experts in the field, the courses encourage active discussion and independent research, allowing students to scrutinize the ethical and practical dimensions of law and politics. The programme also provides opportunities for interdisciplinary research, encouraging engagement with related disciplines such as philosophy and international studies. With a flexible structure, students can tailor their studies to their interests, choosing modules that explore topics like constitutional law, political theory, international law, and ethics. UCL's vibrant academic community and extensive resources create an ideal environment for intellectual growth and professional development. Graduates of this programme will be equipped with a sophisticated understanding of theoretical perspectives and practical implications, enabling them to critically evaluate legal and political systems and contribute thoughtfully to societal debates.

The programme explores the moral quality of the decisions citizens and professionals take, and the justice of the legal and political structures within which they operate. Students develop the ability to analyse important modern political theories, and justify their position on issues concerning the relationship between politics, law and society.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (60 credits), optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

• Meanings of Liberty: Applied Methods in Political Theory (30)
• Seminars in Political Theory, Colloquium in Legal Philosophy and Peer Assisted Learning Sessions (30)

Optional modules

Students choose modules worth a total of 45 credits from the list below (the others remain available as options).

They also choose one further 15-credit module from a list available at: www.ucl.ac.uk/spp/teaching/masters/ma-legal-and-political-theory.

• Contemporary Political Philosophy I: Authority, Obligation & Democracy (15)
• Contemporary Political Philosophy II: Social Justice and Equality (15)
• Equality, Justice and Difference (15)
• Global Ethics (15)
• Jeremy Bentham and the Utilitarian Tradition I and II (30)
• Jeremy Bentham and the Utilitarian Tradition I (15)
• Jurisprudence and Legal Theory I & II (30)
• Jurispudence and Legal Theory I (15)
• The Ethics of Poverty (15)
• Public Ethics (15)
• Theoretical Foundations of Human Rights (15)
• The Ethics of Counterterrorism (15)

Dissertation/report

All MA students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

Teaching for all modules takes the form of seminars where time is dedicated both to introducing knowledge and materials, and allowing students to test their understanding, knowledge and evaluative skills, through discussion, criticism and debate. Assessment is primarily through long essays, coursework and the dissertation.

As a minimum, an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university; a CGPA of 3.3; or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Relevant practical or work experience in a related field may also be taken into account.

Financing for the Legal and Political Theory MSc program at University College London is based on a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, grants, and potential loans. Tuition fees vary for UK and international students, with UK students paying approximately £11,950 per year and international students paying around £22,150 per year. Students are encouraged to explore various funding options, including government loans, university-specific scholarships, and external funding sources. UCL offers a range of scholarships for international students, such as the UCL Graduate Support Scheme and other merit-based or need-based awards. Applicants are advised to check the official UCL Scholarships and Funding website for detailed eligibility criteria and application deadlines. Additionally, students may seek funding from external organizations, government bodies, or private foundations that support postgraduate studies in law, political science, or related disciplines. UCL also provides guidance on applying for UK student loans via student finance institutions, which can cover tuition fees and living costs for eligible students. Apart from financial aid, students are encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities on or off-campus to support their living expenses. The cost of living in London is relatively high, with accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses requiring careful financial planning. Many students combine financial aid options with savings and part-time employment to finance their studies effectively. International students should also consider additional costs such as visa fees and health insurance, which are essential for compliance with UK immigration laws and access to healthcare. Overall, the university strives to make postgraduate education accessible through various funding channels, but students should plan their finances well in advance to ensure they can cover all necessary expenses throughout their period of study.

The MSc in Legal and Political Theory at University College London offers an advanced exploration into the fundamental questions surrounding law, politics, and society. This programme is designed for students interested in critically analyzing the normative foundations of legal and political systems, understanding their historical development, and engaging with contemporary theoretical debates. The curriculum combines rigorous philosophical inquiry with empirical insights, allowing students to develop a nuanced perspective on issues such as justice, authority, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Students have the opportunity to study core topics like the nature and justification of law, constitutional theory, theories of democracy, and the moral and political significance of human rights. The programme emphasizes both theoretical and practical dimensions of legal and political thought, encouraging critical thinking and substantive engagement with key texts and ideas from renowned philosophers and political theorists. The teaching methods include lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, fostering a rich academic environment conducive to intellectual growth.

UCL's prime location in London provides students with unique access to political institutions, think tanks, legal bodies, and cultural resources, enriching their academic experience and opening pathways for internships and professional development. The programme is suitable for students aiming to pursue careers in academia, law, public policy, or political advocacy, as well as those seeking to deepen their understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of contemporary legal and political challenges.

Admission requires a strong academic background in philosophy, political science, law, or related fields, and applicants are expected to demonstrate critical analytical skills and a genuine interest in theoretical issues. Graduates of the MSc in Legal and Political Theory will be well-equipped to contribute thoughtfully to debates on the nature of law and politics, both academically and in practical contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of how societies are governed and how justice can be achieved.