European School of Political and Social Sciences
Master's in Digital Politics and Governance
Lille, France
Master degree
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
EUR 7,000 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* The application date range is subject to variations.
** Bachelor’s and Master’s fees: €3,300 and €11,640 depending on revenue and household composition
Key Summary
The master’s programme in Digital Politics and Governance examines the ways in which digitalisation affects states, politics, government, public services, diplomacy and society. It explores how public authorities and private actors shape the digital transformation of politics and public policies. The Master discusses opportunities and challenges as well as the negative and positive externalities of such digital transformations for states, societies, organisations, and individuals. By the end of the Master’s, students will have a detailed knowledge about digital technologies, politics and the interaction between the two. They will be experts in the strategic and operational aspects of digital transformation processes in the public and political sectors.
Choosing ESPOL means joining a dynamic, internationally recognised institution committed to addressing today’s most pressing global issues. Here's why ESPOL stands out:
- Global Perspective: Our programmes are designed to address key international challenges, such as climate change, sustainability, governance, and security, making them ideal for globally minded students.
- English-Taught Programmes: All Master's programmes are fully taught in English, providing an inclusive environment for students from around the world.
- Innovative Curriculum: ESPOL’s interdisciplinary approach combines political science, economics, law, and environmental studies, ensuring a cutting-edge education that prepares students to shape global policies.
- European Hub: Located in Lille, France, ESPOL is at the heart of Europe, offering proximity to EU institutions and a wealth of professional opportunities with international organisations, think tanks, and NGOs.
- Career-Focused: With a strong network of alumni and partners, ESPOL provides pathways to internships and careers in top international organisations, governmental agencies, and environmental NGOs.
- Vibrant Community: A diverse student body and rich campus life, including debates, conferences, and cultural events, create a stimulating environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.
ESPOL equips you to become a leader and change maker, ready to impact the world for the better.
The ideal student for the Master’s in Digital Politics and Governance is someone who is passionate about the intersection of technology, politics, and global governance. They are curious and eager to explore how digitisation shapes political and societal structures, both locally and internationally.
This student should have strong analytical skills, a keen interest in digital policy, and a desire to understand the legal, technical, and political dimensions of digital transformation. They are motivated by solving complex challenges posed by digitisation and seek to contribute to ethical, responsible governance in the digital era. An affinity for interdisciplinary learning, collaboration with practitioners, and a proactive approach to staying current with digital trends is essential. Ideal candidates are also drawn to careers in public policy, tech regulation, consultancy, or international organisations focused on digital issues.
The **Master’s in Digital Politics and Governance** equips students with comprehensive expertise in understanding and navigating the digital transformation of politics and society. Graduates will gain deep knowledge of how digitisation impacts governance, diplomacy, public policy, and social structures on both a global and European level. By mastering both theoretical frameworks and practical skills, students will be prepared to address critical issues such as digital regulation, cybersecurity, and the ethical use of digital tools.
The programme offers students the ability to analyse and influence digital policies, collaborate with experts in law and IT, and contribute to shaping responsible digital governance. Graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in national regulatory bodies, international organisations, tech companies, think tanks, and the public sector, helping them effectively manage the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The master’s also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue academic research in digital politics.
Core Courses
- Politics, society, culture and history
- Armed conflicts and peacemaking
- History of conceptions of peace
- Public International Law
- Theories of security and contemporary challenges
- Sovereignty and the state in international relations
- International policy in practice
- Politics of global justice
Research Courses
- Introduction to Research Design
- Political Science Research Methods
- Statistics and the Political Sociology of Quantification
- Academic Writing Workshop
- Master Dissertation Colloquium
Optional Courses
- Introduction to political sciencce
- Critical approaches to international relationns
- Public policy analysis
- Global justice
- International migration
- Cybersecurity
- African politics
- European sustainability governance
- Technology and international security
- European social policies
+ intensive language modules
+ career development workshops
+ master’s dissertation
ESPOL makes every effort to ensure that course information is accurate and up-to-date. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change
Féron-Vrau Scholarship
This scholarship finances the first year of a Bachelor’s degree for 20 successful applicants, renewable for years 2 and 3, provided that students meet specific criteria (class attendance, maintaining a satisfactory overall average, not retaking a year, and active involvement in school or community life). French or foreign high school students eligible for CROUS scholarship levels 6 and 7 (with a family income between €0 and €50,000) are eligible.
Amount: Varies based on need and eligibility.
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ESPOL Scholarship
Available to current and future students enrolling in the 2nd or 3rd year of a Bachelor’s degree, or the 1st or 2nd year of a Master’s degree at ESPOL. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence (minimum average grade of 15/20) and alignment of the student’s career plan with ESPOL’s courses. It is compatible with other scholarships but cannot be combined with those covering tuition fees. Students with disabilities may also apply, even if they do not meet all criteria.
Amount: Between €1,000 and €2,000.
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Scholarships Based on Social Criteria
A higher education grant aimed at students facing financial difficulties. This scholarship is designed to supplement family support and offers significant financial aid to help cover the costs of student life, promoting equal access to education.
Amount: Varies based on financial need.
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France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
This prestigious scholarship aims to attract the best international students to pursue Master's or PhD studies in French institutions. It includes funding for tuition, monthly living allowances, international transport, and other benefits like accommodation assistance. Applicants must be foreign nationals under 30 for Master's level, with priority given to students from emerging countries.
Amount: Monthly amounts vary depending on the level of study and include additional services.
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Other Scholarships
There are many scholarships available based on your level of education, personal situation, and country of origin. Students are encouraged to explore opportunities through platforms like Campus France’s Campus Bourse search engine or through their home country’s government services.
Amount: Varies based on the scholarship.
This master's degree allows you to aim for a number of outlets:
- National regulation bodies: for example, in France, CNIL, ARCEP;
- Big tech companies: for example in their public affairs departments;
- Businesses and private sector: for example as digital strategy advisor;
- Start-ups or think tanks in the digital sector: for example France Digitale;
- Public administration at national and subnational level: ministries, regional and local authorities, but also other public administration agencies recruit experts in digital transformation of public policy;
- International and European organisations: the European Union, the OECD or the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity;
- NGOs, trade unions, interest groups and lobbies operating in the digital and data sector, in citizens’ digital rights or digital inclusion;
- Academic career: students graduating from our MA can also access PhD programmes in order to pursue an academic career.