The MSc in Politics Research is an intensive one-year research preparation master's degree. It is not a standalone course, but rather it is intended for students who would like to proceed directly to doctoral study at Oxford or elsewhere but who must first obtain the necessary research training in political science. The MSc in Politics Research provides an advanced level of formal training in research techniques and methodology, and enables you to acquire advanced level substantive knowledge in this sub-area of the discipline. If you are successful on the degree you will attain a proven competence in quantitative and qualitative research methods. You will demonstrate competence in a variety of further and more advanced techniques of data collection, data handling and data analysis. You will design your research project, and will write a short thesis under expert supervision. Upon the successful completion of your MSc, you will be expected to continue your studies in pursuit of a research degree (DPhil) in a relevant area of political science. Graduate work in politics will prepare you for an academic career in the field, either in Oxford or elsewhere, but the DPIR also celebrates the substantial number of its graduates working in government, in diplomatic services, and in senior positions in the private sector.