Political Analysis — Russia and Eastern Europe

The Political Analysis – Russia and Eastern Europe MSc programme at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the political landscapes, institutional dynamics, and socio-economic transformations in Russia and Eastern Europe. Designed for students aiming to understand the complex political developments and historical contexts within the region, this programme combines rigorous academic analysis with current policy debates. Students will examine topics such as authoritarianism, democratization processes, nationalism, regional conflicts, and the impact of international relations on domestic politics. Through a curriculum that integrates political theory, empirical research, and case studies, the programme equips students with critical skills to analyse political phenomena and develop evidence-based policy suggestions. The programme also emphasizes methodological training, including qualitative and quantitative research techniques, enabling graduates to design and conduct their own research projects. Participants will benefit from the expertise of renowned faculty members who are actively involved in research related to Eastern European politics, providing insights into contemporary issues facing the region. The programme offers opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and collaboration with regional institutions, fostering practical experience alongside academic learning. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in academia, policy analysis, journalism, international organizations, and governmental agencies involved in Eurasian affairs. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the MSc in Political Analysis — Russia and Eastern Europe aims to develop critical thinkers capable of engaging with the political challenges of the region with clarity and analytical rigor. Whether you are seeking to deepen your understanding of post-Soviet transitions or pursue a career focused on regional politics, this programme provides a comprehensive foundation for your professional development and academic pursuits in the dynamic and often unpredictable political environment of Russia and Eastern Europe.

The programme tackles issues such as democracy and authoritarianism, corruption, ethno-political conflict, foreign policy and security in both thematic and area/country-oriented modules. Students are able to either focus on one region or to study regions across the post-communist world. All students take a core module in political analysis and have the option of learning Russian or another East European language.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits), optional modules (90 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

Students take two core modules of 15 credits each, one of which much be 'Political Analysis'

• Political Analysis
• And at least one chosen from:
• Qualitative Methods
• Understanding and Analysing Data
• Comparative Analysis in Social and Political Research
• Introduction to Discourse Analysis
• Quantitative Methods
• Advanced Quantitative Methods

Optional modules

Choose from a list including the following:

• Causes, Consequences and Control: Corruption and Governance
• Ethnopolitical Conflict in Central and Eastern Europe
• Informal Practices in Post-Communist Societies
• Making of Modern Ukraine
• Nation, Identity and Power in Central and Eastern Europe
• Russian Politics
• Security, Identity, Polarity
• Governance and Democracy in Central and Eastern Europe
• Russian Foreign Policy
• Baltic Politics and Society

Dissertation/report

All MA students undertake an independent research project, which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000-12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, workshops and classes. Students will be assessed by a variety of methods: unseen examinations, long essays, course work and the research dissertation.

Normally an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The Financing of the Political Analysis — Russia and Eastern Europe program at University College London is supported through a combination of different funding sources that ensure the continued delivery of high-quality education and research. Students enrolled in this program have access to various scholarships and bursaries offered by UCL, which are aimed at reducing the financial burden and supporting outstanding candidates. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to nationality or field of study. Additionally, students may apply for external funding from government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international bodies dedicated to fostering academic exchange and research in political science and area studies.

The program also benefits from UCL’s strategic partnerships with institutions across Russia and Eastern Europe, which occasionally provide sponsorship or collaborative funding opportunities. Moreover, students may choose to finance their studies through student loans available through UK government schemes, such as the Student Loans Company, or via private loan providers. International students might also explore funding options from their home countries, including government or university scholarships aimed at promoting regional studies.

UCL offers various mechanisms to support students in containing study costs, including part-time work opportunities, research assistant positions, and internships related to the course content, which can either be paid or unpaid but valuable for practical experience. The university emphasizes transparent communication about tuition fees, which vary depending on the student’s domicile status and the specific arrangements of the program. International students, in particular, should budget for additional costs such as visa fees, health surcharges, and housing expenses, which can be partially offset through targeted funding sources.

Funding for this specialized program is designed to attract high-caliber students from around the world, fostering a diverse academic environment conducive to in-depth analysis of political developments in Russia and Eastern Europe. The program’s financing structure aims to support students throughout their studies, including during research phases, dissertation work, and assessment periods, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder academic progress. Overall, the program’s financial framework combines university resources, external scholarships, governmental support, and personal funding options to create a sustainable model for students pursuing advanced studies in this critical geopolitical area.

The MSc Political Analysis — Russia and Eastern Europe at University College London offers students a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape in Russia and Eastern European countries. This program is designed to develop critical analytical skills, enabling students to interpret complex political phenomena and policy developments in the post-Soviet space. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including political institutions, electoral systems, policy processes, and the influence of regional and international actors in Russia and Eastern Europe. Students will examine contemporary issues such as democratization, authoritarianism, nationalism, and regional conflicts, providing a nuanced perspective on current political dynamics in these regions. The program also emphasizes methodological training, equipping students with qualitative and quantitative research skills necessary for rigorous political analysis. Taught by leading academics and practitioners in the field, the course combines theoretical frameworks with practical case studies to enhance understanding of the political context. It offers opportunities for engagement with policymakers, NGOs, and research institutions, often through invited lectures and workshops. The program is suitable for those with a background in political science, international relations, or related disciplines who wish to pursue careers in research, policy analysis, diplomatic service, or international organizations focused on Russia and Eastern Europe. Graduates will be well-prepared for roles that require sophisticated political analysis, strategic thinking, and an understanding of regional political developments, both within academia and beyond. The program typically lasts one year full-time and includes a dissertation component where students conduct independent research on a relevant topic. Overall, MSc Political Analysis — Russia and Eastern Europe provides an in-depth, academically rigorous, and practically relevant education for students interested in the political affairs of this strategically important region.