Programme Overview
The Master of Arts in Politics is a 12–18 month part-time programme designed for individuals with an interest in political systems, political decision-making processes, and social power relations. The programme accommodates diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
Vienna — home to the United Nations Office, the OSCE, the IAEA, OPEC, and dozens of international organisations — provides a unique intellectual backdrop for this rigorous, globally focused postgraduate programme. The MA Politics develops your analytical and critical thinking through guided self-study, live lectures, and personalised one-on-one supervision.
The programme follows the principle of guided self-study: you plan your learning phases independently while adhering to structured deadlines — supporting part-time study alongside professional commitments.
Programme Structure
The programme is divided into two consecutive tiers totalling 90 ECTS.
Tier 1 — Foundation Phase (30 ECTS)
Build a solid foundation in political science through 10 compulsory courses covering essential theoretical and analytical perspectives. Each course carries 3 ECTS credits: Political Theory · Political Practice & Institutions · Global Politics & International Law · Histories of Political Ideas · Political Economy · Politics, Ethics & Aesthetics · Race, Religion & the Feminine · Studio Methods & Arts of Politics · Further Studies in Politics I & II.
Tier 2 — Research Phase & Master's Thesis (60 ECTS)
Transition from teaching to independent research. Develop and complete a Master's thesis under individual academic supervision, demonstrating your ability to conduct original political science research at an advanced academic level. Includes: Research Plan · Research Execution · Thesis Writing · Individual Supervision throughout.
Core Courses — Tier 1
Political Theory · 3 ECTS
Covers central trends in political theory and history of ideas. Examines classical and modern schools of political thought and their significance for understanding political orders, norms, and power relations.
Political Practice & Institutions · 3 ECTS
Focuses on systematic comparison of political systems. Analyses institutional structures, political processes, and types of regimes. Teaches methods for comparative study of political phenomena.
Global Politics & International Law · 3 ECTS
Introduces key theories and concepts in international relations. Covers power structures, international organizations, conflicts, and forms of cooperation in the global political system.
Histories of Political Ideas · 3 ECTS
Explores the evolution of political thought from ancient to contemporary times. Examines how ideas shape political institutions and practices across different historical contexts.
Political Economy · 3 ECTS
Analyses interactions between politics and economics. Covers economic framework conditions of political decisions and political factors influencing markets, regulation, and distribution.
Politics, Ethics & Aesthetics · 3 ECTS
Examines the intersection of political action with ethical considerations and aesthetic expression. Explores how values and cultural forms shape political discourse and practice.
Race, Religion & the Feminine · 3 ECTS
Investigates how race, religion, and gender intersect with political power. Analyses identity politics and social movements challenging traditional power structures.
Studio Methods & Arts of Politics · 3 ECTS
Develops practical research skills and creative approaches to political analysis. Combines methodological training with innovative ways of presenting political research.
Further Studies in Politics I & II · 6 ECTS (3+3)
Advanced elective modules allowing deeper exploration of specialised topics. Students can focus on areas aligned with their research interests and career goals.
Who Is This Programme For?
Graduates of political science, social science, economics, or law programmes seeking to deepen their expertise and advance to doctoral studies.
Professionals in administration, government, or public policy seeking career advancement into leadership roles.
Professionals in international organisations, NGOs, or diplomatic services seeking global career opportunities.
Professionals in media, political consulting, or interest groups seeking deeper analytical expertise and enhanced credibility.
Career outcomes: Policy Makers · Legal Advisors · Political Consultants · Academic Researchers
Admission Requirements
Standard Route: A completed Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in political science, social sciences, economics, law, or related disciplines. English proficiency required (non-native speakers may need to provide proof). Relevant professional experience in politics or policy is beneficial but not mandatory.
Required Documents: Bachelor's degree certificate · Academic transcripts · Curriculum Vitae · Proof of English proficiency.
Performance-Based Admission (PBA): An alternative entry route for candidates without standard academic qualifications. PBA students demonstrate academic ability through coursework. Final admission is based on performance — the quality of written work and ability to develop analytically are decisive factors.
Rolling Admission: No fixed intake dates — start anytime.