Master’s in Political Science, Dissertation Path - In-Depth Research
Focusing on the acquisition of theoretical and practical skills in research and political analysis, the pathways focusing on research and dissertation provide you with the tools you need to get off to a good start in your professional life as a political scientist.
In-depth research-dissertation pathway
Choose this path if you want to experience an original approach to scientific research and develop leading expertise in an area of Political Science.
The in-depth research-dissertation pathway consists of 15 course credits and 30 dissertation credits.
- Fall and winter admission
- Quota program
- Daytime
- Full-time and part-time
- 45 credits
The 31,000 words dissertation, approximately 80 pages, provides a detailed and original analysis of an issue, based on theoretical reflection and/or an empirical approach of a qualitative or quantitative nature. Field research is also possible.
Internship-dissertation pathway
Choose this path if you want to experience a research approach based on knowledge synthesis, while gaining practical experience through a short exploratory internship in a workplace related to your field of study.
The dissertation-internship program includes 15 course credits, 7 credits for an 8-week internship (270 hours) and 23 credits for a short dissertation.
The short dissertation of 21,000 words, around 50 pages, provides a systematic analysis of a theoretical or empirical issue, question or problem, based mainly on existing literature or data. Field research is not encouraged.
The short dissertation can take 2 forms:
Critical analysis carries out systematic research into a theoretical or empirical problem, based mainly on existing literature and data. Field research is not involved.
Policy analysis takes an in-depth look at a policy issue or problem, leading to one or more recommendations. The analysis draws on existing research, data and relevant literature to present a clear argument for a specific policy position, solution or proposal.
Program strengths
- Rigorous training in the various stages of the social science research process, offered by one of Canada's top Political Science departments.
- Seminars enabling you to develop expertise in a particular field of Political Science.
- Customized pathways allowing you to acquire data analysis skills and/or experience field research.
- Ongoing support at every stage of your course.
- Funding opportunities, including guaranteed funding for students with outstanding admission records.
- Short exploratory internships to ease the transition to the job market.
Questions about the program?
For further information on our programs or on the current reform, please contact Martin Papillon (martin.papillon@umontreal.ca, 514 343-6111, # 41938), Graduate Programs Manager.
The Department of Political Science holds all courses, teaching and administrative meetings in person. Except in exceptional cases or for follow-up, students are invited to attend classes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Department of Political Science, on the 4th floor of the Lionel-Groulx Pavilion. It is definitely recommended to book your appointment in advance.
Programs Admission Guide (In French)
Program structure and courses overview (in French)
Financial support
Consult the Student guide for the research pathways (dissertation and internship-dissertation) (in French)
Find a research supervisor
Internships
International exchanges and stays
Outlook for the future
Career or studies? The choice is yours!
Take advantage of the dissertation - in-depth research and dissertation - internship pathways to get a job in a diversified range of fields.
- Provincial and federal public institutions
- College education
- International organizations
- Media
- Political parties
- Non-governmental organizations
- Private companies and consulting services
- Research organizations
Academic research pathway
Our graduates also pursue their studies in the following program: