Master of Arts in Political Science (Thesis)

The masters degree is designed for students to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research in political science. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship in the area of research. Candidates may advance to the Doctor of Philosophy degree after successful completion of the masters or may apply to convert to the PhD at an earlier stage. An honours grade of at least H3 (65%) must be attained to qualify for the award of the masters degree.

Students who complete the masters will:

• produce a 30,000-word thesis on a research project dealing with an area of political science;
• demonstrate an ability to present, argue and demonstrate a coherent hypothesis on an issue in political science, supported by research and analysis;
• demonstrate aptitude for original research at a higher degree level in the future.

Please note that 102OB Master of Arts in Political Science (Thesis) will no longer be accepting new applications from 2014, this program specialisation from 2014 will be offered in the MR-ARTSTHS Master of Arts (Thesis only). Please refer to the correct handbook entry for program information for commencing students from 2014.

Thesis 30,000 words

A four year BA (Honours) degree with a research component or equivalent in the appropriate area of study or closely related area. The grade for the honours thesis component must be at least equivalent to an H2A (75%) at the University of Melbourne and the overall honours result must be at least equivalent to an H2B (70%).

Applicants must include with their application a thesis proposal of 2,500 words and a writing sample (this may be an essay from your previous degree, a chapter from your Honours or Masters thesis or a published article). The primary basis for selection is academic merit, however, consideration will also be given to the quality of the thesis proposal, research potential, and the availability of an appropriate supervisor. Academic references may be required to assess the applicant's eligibility.

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Description, Course Objectives and Generic Skills of this entry.
The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Please refer to the University Graduate Attributes: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/about/attributes.html