Politics — Comparative Government

The Politics — Comparative Government program at the University of Oxford offers students a comprehensive and in-depth study of political systems, institutions, and processes across different countries and regions. This rigorous course is designed to develop a deep understanding of how governments operate, the factors influencing political behavior, and the challenges faced by contemporary nations. Students will explore a broad range of topics including political theory, electoral systems, policymaking, governance, and international relations, with a particular emphasis on comparative analysis. The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills through the examination of case studies, empirical research, and theoretical frameworks, enabling students to evaluate political developments and challenges in diverse contexts. Participants will engage with leading academics and practitioners, gaining insights into both historical and contemporary issues in global politics. The course structure combines lectures, seminars, and research projects, providing a dynamic learning environment tailored to foster active participation and intellectual growth. Graduates of the Politics — Comparative Government program will be well-equipped for careers in public policy, diplomacy, international organizations, research institutes, or further academic pursuits. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures that students acquire a nuanced understanding of the political world, preparing them to analyze complex international phenomena and contribute thoughtfully to debates on governance and policy. With access to Oxford’s extensive resources and networks, students can also benefit from internships, conferences, and extracurricular activities that enhance their practical understanding of political science. This program is ideal for those passionate about understanding the intricacies of government and international politics, and who aspire to make meaningful contributions in the field.

The MPhil in Politics (Comparative Government) emphasises the research-led study of government and political institutions from area-specific and comparative perspectives, and provides a range of educational experiences in a variety of learning environments to develop your written and oral communication skills as well as other technical skills.

The MPhil will provide you with a solid foundation for a wide range of careers, including academic, professional, commercial, diplomatic and governmental positions.

The department is internationally recognised as a leading centre for teaching and research in comparative government and empirical political science, and counts among its members a number of acknowledged authorities within this discipline. 

In the first year, you must complete the core classes and tutorials in comparative government and a programme of research methods training, which includes core courses in statistics and research design and specialised elective courses.

At the end of your first year you will sit a three-hour written examination in the core subject and submit a research design proposal as preparation for the MPhil thesis.

Progression to the second year is conditional on satisfactory performance in the first.

In your second year you must write a thesis and complete two specialist optional papers. Options that have been offered in recent years include the history and politics of South Asia, politics in Africa, the politics of transition in Central and Eastern Europe, political sociology, comparative presidentialism and theory of voting.

At the end of the course, you are required to sit two three hour written examinations in the optional papers of your choice and submit a thesis of not more than 30,000 words.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in political science or international relations, or in a closely related discipline (eg economics, history, philosophy, sociology, law, etc).

Nonetheless, each application will be assessed upon its own merits, and so candidates with a degree in an unrelated discipline should demonstrate the relevance of their academic background to their proposed subject or topic of study. 

Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose:At least 1,000 words or two pages
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• A number of Research Council awards are available each year from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

The Politics — Comparative Government program at the University of Oxford offers an in-depth exploration of political systems, governmental structures, and political behavior across different countries. This program is designed to develop students’ understanding of how political institutions operate within various socio-economic and cultural contexts worldwide. It covers a wide array of topics including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and the analysis of political processes and institutions. Students engage with both qualitative and quantitative research methods, enabling them to critically assess political phenomena and policy impacts.

The curriculum emphasizes the comparative study of political systems, focusing on areas such as democracy, authoritarianism, political parties, electoral systems, public policy, and governance. By analyzing case studies from diverse countries, students gain insights into the factors influencing political stability, conflict, change, and development. The program also aims to foster analytical skills, encouraging students to evaluate political arguments rigorously and to develop well-founded, evidence-based conclusions.

Students have access to the university’s extensive resources, including libraries, seminars, and conferences featuring leading scholars in the field. The program prepares graduates for careers in politics, government, international organizations, research institutions, and the media. It also offers a strong foundation for those pursuing further academic study or research in political science and related disciplines. The program is taught by distinguished academics who are experts in comparative politics, providing students with mentorship and guidance throughout their studies. Overall, the Politics — Comparative Government program at Oxford combines rigorous academic training with real-world relevance, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and influence contemporary political issues globally.