Political Sciences

"Political Sciences at Pompeu Fabra University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for active engagement in the complex world of politics and governance. This program provides a thorough understanding of political theories, institutions, and practices at local, national, and international levels, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications. Students will explore key areas such as comparative politics, public policy analysis, international relations, and political philosophy, gaining critical skills to analyze political phenomena and contribute to policy development. The curriculum emphasizes active learning, encouraging students to participate in debates, simulations, and research projects to enhance their analytical and communication abilities. With a diverse faculty renowned for their expertise in political science, students benefit from current insights and innovative approaches to understanding political systems and behavior. The program also fosters a global perspective, highlighting the interconnectedness of political issues worldwide and preparing graduates to work in various careers including government, international organizations, NGOs, media, and consultancy. Practical training is supplemented by opportunities for internships, conferences, and collaboration with relevant institutions. Graduates of the Political Sciences program at Pompeu Fabra University will be equipped with the critical thinking, research skills, and ethical awareness necessary to navigate and influence the political landscape effectively. The university's strategic location in Barcelona offers a vibrant environment for political and social engagement, further enriching the educational experience. By completing this program, students will be well-prepared to participate actively in democratic processes, contribute to public debate, and drive positive social change on multiple levels."

Compulsory courses (25 ECTS):

• Fundamentals of Political and Social Research (Aina Gallego)
• Idioms of Analysis in Political Science (Jaume López)
• Techniques of Statistical Analysis I (Group I - Romain Lachat, Group II - Jorge Rodríguez)
• Techniques of Statistical Analysis II (Group I - Aïda Solé, Group II - Bruno Arpino)
• Master Thesis Seminar (Romain Lachat)

Optional courses (all courses are 5 ECTS, students must choose 3 courses):

• Electoral Systems (Ignacio Lago)
• Federalism and Federations: Political Theory and Comparative Politics (Klaus-Jürgen Nagel)
• The Current Financial and Economic Crises and their Impact on the Social Wellbeing of Populations (Vicenç Navarro)
• Research and Data Analysis Seminar (Juana Lamote and Gösta Esping-Anderson)
• The Construction of the EU and its Consequences on the European Population (Javier Arregui)
• Migration and Society (Pau Baizán)
• Qualitative Research Methods (Evren Yalaz)
• Democracy and Political Liberalism: Theoretical and Institutional Features (Ferran Requejo)
• Actors and Institutions in the Analysis of Public Policies (Visnja Vukov)
• Citizenship and Democracy in the European Union (Mariano Torcal)
• Comparative Political Economy: Regimes, Conflict and Development (Abel Escribà)
• Social Psychological Approaches to Society and the Individual (Verònica Benet-Martínez)
• Multilevel Political Competition: Parties, Citizens and Elections (Carolina Galais)
• Labor Market and Employment Policies (Luis Ortíz)

Requirements

• Official undergraduate degree/diploma and the corresponding academic transcript, with the average grade at your home university.
• Curriculum Vitae in English.
• A letter of motivation in English stating the candidate's interest in following the master's programme (maximum length: 2 pages).
• Two letters of recommendation (both academic).
• Identity Card or Passport. 
• Proof of English language (level B2). English: official Cambridge certificates (FCE or higher), with results of 6.0 at IELTS or 100 at TOEFL (iBT), will be accepted, among others.
• Professional experience in any of the fields related to the master's programme.(optional)
• Research experience.(optional)
• Teaching experience. (optional)
• Additional academic training in areas related to the master's programme.(optional)

Scholarships

• GRAL - General scholarships for students enrolled on post-compulsory studies.  
• MATRC - Financial credential for the purposes of processing university enrolments without prior payment of the public prices for the academic services.
• UPF - Tuition fee scholarship for university master's degree students
• Global Education

The Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science at Pompeu Fabra University offers students a comprehensive understanding of political systems, institutions, and processes both in Spain and globally. This program aims to develop critical analytical skills, enabling students to evaluate political phenomena from multiple perspectives. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including comparative politics, international relations, public policy, political theory, and government functions. Students are encouraged to engage with current affairs and develop research competencies through various projects and assessments.

Throughout the course, students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, economics, law, and history to enrich their understanding of political dynamics. The program emphasizes the importance of empirical research and quantitative methods, equipping graduates with essential skills for careers in public administration, political consultancy, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, journalism, and academia.

Pompeu Fabra University aims to foster a globally minded perspective, encouraging students to participate in exchange programs and internships that provide practical experience in political environments. The faculty includes experts recognized in the fields of political science, international relations, and public policy, ensuring that students receive instruction rooted in current research and policy debates.

The university's facilities support interactive learning through seminars, workshops, and conferences, and students are provided with digital resources and databases crucial for their academic development. The program also emphasizes the importance of civic responsibility and active citizenship, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to democratic societies. Graduates of the Political Science program at Pompeu Fabra University are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce in roles that require analytical, research, and communication skills related to political analysis, policy-making, and governance.