Contemporary Democratic Politics MA

Key information

Duration:
1 year full time, 2 years part time
Start date:
September 2026
Apply by:
1 August 2026 (international), 1 September 2026 (UK)

This course is designed for students who are concerned about the future of democratic politics and want to play a role in safeguarding and improving democracy.

Democracy is in crisis. Authoritarianism is on the rise, societies are divided and democratic resilience is being tested. In the UK and across the globe, democratic governments struggle to manage the effects of severe economic inequality, affective polarisation, digital misinformation and climate change.

On this course, you’ll study the political challenges arising from recent social and global changes. Key themes you will explore include:

  • populism and authoritarianism
  • Affective Polarisation and the role of emotions in politics
  • Capitalism and social inequality
  • climate change
  • media, technology and post-truth
  • social movements, protest mobilisation and radical democracy
  • democratic innovations and citizens participation
  • strategies to improve democracies respond and adapt to challenges.

You’ll be part of a vibrant community of students and researchers. The Sussex Politics Department is home to two well respected research centres – the Sussex European Institute and the Centre for the Study of Corruption. If you are particularly interested in economics, you will also benefit from our links with the Centre for Global Political Economy based in our School of Global Studies. You can also join guest lectures, research workshops and alumni and employer events.

The course is interactive, skills- and employability-focused. You’ll work with fellow students to explore and test possible solutions to enhance democratic resilience. You’ll also meet with political changemakers from beyond the university.

You’ll learn both inside and outside of the classroom. The course includes field trip opportunities and visits to local political organisations. You can have discussions with policy-makers, civil society advocates and experts in political communication.

The skills you develop will help you in a range of careers, including politics, media, civil society, government and various international organisations.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

When democracies are under attack from outside and under challenge from those within, it is vital that we offer postgraduate study that explores and understands contemporary democracy, its enemies and its prospects.Paul Taggart
Professor of Politics

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Entry requirements

Degree requirements

You should have an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree or above.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please select your country from the list.

Argentina

Degree requirements

Licenciado/Titulo with a minimum final mark of at least 6.0-7.0 depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Australia

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Azerbaijan

Degree requirements

Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4 or 81%

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Bahrain

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 (Grade C+).

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Bangladesh

Degree requirements

A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.2/4.0

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Brazil

Degree requirements

Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a minimum final mark of at least 7.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Brunei

Degree requirements

Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second class lower division or CGPA 2.7/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Canada

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 (grade B).

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Chile

Degree requirements

Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 4.5-5.0/7 depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

China

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-70% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels.  

As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Colombia

Degree requirements

Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad’ and a minimum CGPA of 3.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Cyprus

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Denmark

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 7 (Fair Performance).

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Ecuador

Degree requirements

Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 15/20.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Egypt

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree from a university with a minimum overall grade of at least 70%.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

France

Degree requirements

Licence with mention assez bien or Maîtrise with a minimum final mark of at least 12.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Germany

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a minimum final mark of 2.7 or better.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Ghana

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree from a public university with a minimum second-class lower division.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Greece

Degree requirements

Ptychion from an AEI with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Hong Kong

Degree requirements

Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

India

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 50-65% depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Indonesia

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0. 

Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Iran

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a minimum final mark of at least 14.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Italy

Degree requirements

Diploma di Laurea with a minimum overall mark of at least 101.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Japan

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Jordan

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or 75%.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kazakhstan

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 3.5/5 or CGPA 3.0/4

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kenya

Degree requirements

Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Kuwait

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or B.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Lebanon

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 or 13/20.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Malawi

Degree requirements

Masters degree, depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Malaysia

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.7/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Mexico

Degree requirements

Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Nepal

Degree requirements

A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Nigeria

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CGPA of at least 2.8-2.99/4.0, 3.0-3.49/5.0, or 4.0-4.6/7.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Norway

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of C.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Oman

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Pakistan

Degree requirements

Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. 

Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. 

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Palestine

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum of at least 70% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Paraguay

Degree requirements

Bachelors with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Peru

Degree requirements

Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 12/20 from a public university or 14/20 from a private university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Philippines

Degree requirements

Masters degree with a minimum of 1.75/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.5/4.0

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Qatar

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall CPGA of at least 2.8 (on a scale of 4).

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Russia

Degree requirements

Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Saudi Arabia

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.8/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Singapore

Degree requirements

Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CAP 3.5.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

South Africa

Degree requirements

Bachelors (honours) degree with a minimum second-class division 2.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

South Korea

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.5 or 2.8/4.3 or B.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Spain

Degree requirements

Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 2/4 or 6/10.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Sri Lanka

Degree requirements

Bachelors Special degree with a minimum lower second honours.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Switzerland

Degree requirements

Licence or Diplôme with a minimum 4.5/6 or 7/10.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Taiwan

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-75% depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Thailand

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5 -2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Turkey

Degree requirements

Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.6 - 2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

United Arab Emirates

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or equivalent.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

USA

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Uzbekistan

Degree requirements

Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 70%.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Vietnam

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5/4.0 or 6.5/10.

As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Zambia

Degree requirements

Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

Zimbabwe

Degree requirements

Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division.

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Please note

Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis.

My country is not listed

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

Subject-specific requirements

Your qualification should be in a social sciences or humanities subject. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We accept IELTS Online.

 

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests

Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

Duolingo English test

110 overall, with no component score below 105.

Duolingo English test scores are valid for two years from the test date. Find out more about the Duolingo English test

You will need to share your results with the University of Sussex.

LanguageCert Academic SELT

Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version.  We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson (PTE Academic)

Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing). 

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

AS/A-level (GCE)

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

 Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% 

We will also accept the Indian Secondary School Certificate at the grade below when awarded by the following examination boards, but these State Board results must have been completed within 6 years of the start date of the course at Sussex:

Tamil Nadu; Karnataka; Delhi; Maharashtra; and West Bengal - English: 70%

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries: 

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Canada**
  • Dominica
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Ireland
  • Jamaica
  • New Zealand
  • St Kitts and Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Vincent and the Grenadines
  • The British Overseas Territories
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United Kingdom
  • USA

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

Visas and immigration

Find out how to apply for a student visa

Admissions information for applicants

How to apply

You apply to Sussex using our application portal

Personal statement

Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. 

Find out how to write a personal statement

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.

Application deadlines

1 August 2026 (international), 1 September 2026 (UK)

We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course

Course content

Your degree

Practical and study skills will be included within and alongside your modules.

Teaching

Teaching methods typically include lectures and seminars.

12%: Lecture
88%: Seminar

Assessment

Assessment methods typically include coursework, practicals, group work and written assessments.

84%: Coursework
6%: Practical
5%: Group work
5%: Written assessment

Contact hours and workload

This year of study includes approximately 1,800 hours of work. This breaks down into about 120 hours of contact time and about 1,680 hours of independent study.

Engage and actively participate throughout your studies to get the most out of your course. 

Your modules

Core modules

Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.

Autumn teaching
  • Democracy Today: Challenges and Opportunities
Spring teaching
  • Understanding Populism, Authoritarianism and Post-Truth
  • Researching Democracy
  • Dissertation

Options

Alongside your core modules, you can choose options to broaden your horizons and tailor your course to your interests. This list gives you a flavour of our options, which are kept under review and may change, for example in response to student feedback or the latest research.

While it’s our aim for students to take their preferred combinations of options, this can’t be guaranteed and will be subject to timetabling. Options may be grouped and if so, students will be able to choose a set number of options from the selection available in any particular group.

Autumn teaching
  • Climate Change and Environmental Governance
  • Capitalism and Inequality
  • Digital Media: Theory and Critique
Spring teaching
  • Social Movements and Radical Democracy
  • Making Democratic Politics Resilient
  • State Capture and Grand Corruption
  • Democracy and Public Policy

This course is currently subject to validation, in line with our procedures for assuring the quality of our degrees. This means that some course detail may change. The validation process will be concluded before the course starts.

Paid project opportunities with UK employers

Gain work experience by tackling a real-life challenge faced by an organisation. Learn how to develop a project, work in a team and deliver your findings to a client in a supportive setting. Find out how to take part

Our experts

Fees and scholarships

How much does it cost?

Fees

Fees are not yet set for the academic year 2026/27 – check back from September 2025. Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis.

If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits

Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

Find out about our terms and conditions

How can I fund my course?

Scholarships

Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.

Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2026/27.

Working while you study

Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work

Careers

91%

of Sussex postgraduates have completed work experience by the end of their course (University of Sussex Career Readiness data at point of graduation 2023/24)

Applied learning in real-life contexts will prepare you for a smooth transition into the workplace.

Through the course, you will develop in-depth political knowledge alongside advanced skills in critical thinking, creative problem-solving, research and communication which are valued by employers and relevant in many careers.

When you graduate, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in professional fields including:

  • governmental institutions and the civil service
  • the NGO and voluntary sector
  • think-tanks and research institutes
  • journalism, media and political communication
  • the private sector

We also offer excellent training, and support if you decide to pursue doctoral studies and/or an academic career.

Design your future at Sussex

Taking the next step in your career can feel daunting, but we’ll help you to explore, connect and flourish throughout your studies and beyond.

As a Sussex student, you’ll learn how to tackle real-world challenges and have access to tailored programmes of careers support:

  • our Career Lab helps you to explore your options, build key skills and connect with employers. Take part in internships, community consultancy projects and insight visits, where you can learn about life at organisations including Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, Gatwick Airport and the Knepp Rewilding Project
  • one-to-one coaching with your Faculty Careers Consultant can enable you to identify your career goals, write an effective CV and prepare for future interviews
  • entrepreneurship initiatives like StartUp Sussex and Ideas Lab can empower you to turn your concepts into reality.

Explore how our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can support you

The Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services logo

Winner
Supporting Student and Graduate Employability Award
AGCAS Awards for Excellence 2024

National Enterprise Educator Awards logo

Winner
Entrepreneurship Catalyst Award
National Enterprise Educator Awards 2024

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