Political theory
The Political Theory major is not only for those who love political theory but also offers an opportunity to deeply explore and understand political and social issues from a theoretical perspective. It is a field that requires patience, sharp analytical skills, and a passion for research. If you wish to contribute to political and social development, this will be an excellent choice for your future career.
Program Introduction
Political Theory is a core major in the field of political science, primarily focusing on the essence of political phenomena, the operation laws of political power, and the philosophical foundations of political values. This major covers core areas such as political philosophy, comparative politics, theories of the state, democracy and rule of law, and ideology analysis.
It emphasizes the cultivation of students' theoretical thinking, critical analysis abilities, and academic research skills. The curriculum typically includes courses such as the History of Western Political Thought, Contemporary Political Theory, Chinese Political Thought, and Political Science Research Methods, aimed at helping students systematically grasp the basic paradigms of political science and apply theoretical tools to analyze real-world political issues.
Training Objectives
- Master the theory of socialism with Chinese characteristics, establish correct worldviews, life views, and values, support the Party's policies, laws, and guidelines, love the country, obey the law, have good moral character, be rigorous in learning, and have a strong sense of career responsibility, dedication, and cooperation, and work towards the modernization of socialist construction;
- Master the basic theories and relevant professional knowledge of this field, and keep abreast of the cutting-edge academic developments in political science;
- Master at least one foreign language, be proficient in computer use, and possess certain abilities to engage in scientific research, teaching, political analysis, and management;
- Maintain physical and mental health.
Who is suited for this major?
The Political Theory major is especially suitable for those passionate about understanding politics, society, and global issues. If you have strong critical thinking skills and enjoy analyzing complex problems, this major will help you develop those abilities.
Those interested in political philosophy, political theory, or aiming to work in political organizations, policy research, teaching, or diplomacy will find ample opportunities in this field. Moreover, this major is also well-suited for those intending to work in international organizations or political and social research institutions.
Learning Method and Duration
The standard duration for this major is two years. The maximum duration of study, including any leave of absence, can be extended by two years beyond the prescribed duration with approval.
Curriculum
|
No. |
Course Name |
Credits |
|
1 |
Advanced English (Ⅰ) |
2 |
|
2 |
Advanced English (Ⅱ) |
2 |
|
3 |
Research on the Theory and Practice of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics |
2 |
|
4 |
Marxism and Social Science Methodology |
1 |
|
5 |
Political Theory and Methods |
2 |
|
6 |
Special Topics in International Politics and Diplomacy |
2 |
|
7 |
Research Ethics and Academic Norms |
1 |
|
8 |
Selected Readings in Political Science Classics |
2 |
|
9 |
Contemporary Political Issues in China and Abroad |
2 |
|
10 |
Master's Thesis Writing Guidance |
1 |
|
11 |
Special Research in Western Political Thought |
2 |
|
12 |
Special Research in Political Sociology |
2 |
|
13 |
Special Research in Comparative Government and Politics |
2 |
|
14 |
Special Research in Chinese Government and Politics |
2 |
|
15 |
Special Research in U.S. Government and Politics |
2 |
|
16 |
Special Research in British Government and Politics |
2 |
|
17 |
Special Research in Japanese Government and Politics |
2 |
|
18 |
Special Research in Comparative Party Systems |
2 |
|
19 |
Special Research in Public Administration |
2 |
|
20 |
Special Research in Chinese Political Thought and Political System |
2 |
|
21 |
Frontier Issues in International Relations |
2 |
|
22 |
Special Research in World Economics |
2 |
|
23 |
Special Research in World Culture |
2 |
|
24 |
Special Research in the European Union |
2 |
|
25 |
Special Research in Russian Politics |
2 |
|
26 |
Special Research in Developing Countries |
2 |
|
27 |
Special Research in International Systems |
2 |
|
28 |
Special Research in International Political Economy |
2 |
|
29 |
Special Research in U.S. Foreign Relations |
2 |
|
30 |
Special Research in Japanese Foreign Relations |
2 |
|
31 |
Cross-Cultural Communication Research |
2 |
|
32 |
Special Research in Global Security Governance |
2 |
|
33 |
Research in Diplomatic Decision-Making Processes |
2 |
|
34 |
Case Studies in Diplomacy |
2 |
|
35 |
Special Research in the History of Diplomatic Thought |
2 |
|
36 |
Special Research in Economic Diplomacy |
2 |
|
37 |
Special Research in Public Diplomacy |
2 |
|
38 |
Research in Contemporary Chinese Diplomacy |
2 |
|
39 |
Research in Energy and Environmental Diplomacy |
2 |
|
40 |
Special Research in China's Peripheral Diplomacy |
2 |
Professional Practice
This program emphasizes the combination of theory and practice, requiring students to engage in practical training based on academic research. Students will have opportunities to participate in social practice, internships, and academic research activities.
Training Method
- Combine individual mentoring with collective training;
- Organize course learning, research activities, and academic activities during the graduate training process to optimize knowledge structure and promote the integration of theory and practice;
- Encourage the initiative and self-discipline of graduate students, with teaching methods focusing on inquiry-based and discussion-based approaches;
- Implement strict assessment systems, ensuring the quality of master's degree training.
Research Directions
- Political Philosophy and the History of Thought
- Political Theory and Methodology
- Comparative Politics
- State Governance and Government Theory
- Political Culture and Ideology
- International Political Theory
- Theories of Democracy and the Rule of Law
- Political Economy
- Gender and Politics
- Environmental Politics and Ecological Political Science
Note: The research directions may vary across universities depending on the faculty and research priorities. It is recommended that students choose their research direction based on the university's curriculum and their supervisors' research areas.
Degree Awarded
This program confers a Master's degree in Law.
Career Development
- Academic Research and Education: University teachers, researchers, post-doctoral research fellows.
- Government and Public Institutions: Civil servants, research institutions, community governance.
- International Organizations and Diplomacy: Work in international organizations (UN, World Bank) or in diplomacy (foreign ministries, embassies).
- Media and Publishing: Political commentators, journalists, editors in academic publishing.
- Enterprise and Consulting: Policy advisors, corporate public affairs.
- Social Organizations and NGOs: Work in NGOs, industry associations, and social governance projects.
- Other Related Fields: University administrators, exam trainers for political science courses.
Related Majors
- International Politics (International Relations)
- Public Administration (Public Management)
- Political Philosophy
- Comparative Politics
- Chinese Politics and Diplomacy
Leading Universities in this Field in China
- Peking University
- Fudan University
- Renmin University of China
- Tsinghua University
- Nankai University
- Jilin University
- Central China Normal University
- China University of Political Science and Law
- Tianjin Normal University
- East China Normal University
Evaluation of the Political Theory Major
The Political Theory major is one of the key disciplines in the field of political science, focusing on the essence of political phenomena, political power, its operating laws, and the philosophical foundation of political values.
This is a philosophically oriented academic field that requires students to have strong analytical skills, theoretical thinking, and a solid foundation in political history and political thought.
It not only provides theoretical knowledge but also equips students with the ability to apply theory to real-world political issues. This major is particularly suitable for those who want to contribute to political and social development through research and policy analysis.
The above provides an overview of the Master’s program in Political Theory. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!
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