Contemporary Democratic Politics MA

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’ll 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 how 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’ll 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 policymakers, 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.

About Sussex
Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.

Location
Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.