International Relations MA

Overview

If you're interested in national and international organisations, conflict and uncertainty, and in how they are shaping contemporary international relations, our MA International Relations will develop your grasp of the central issues. You'll study issues related to civil society and security, such as weapons of mass destruction (WMD), terrorism and political violence, and explore the power of social movements, political resistance and rebellion.

You'll challenge conventional explanations, develop your own arguments, and participate in key debates about international relations and global politics. You'll develop advanced analytic skills and critical assessment abilities, and learn to write engaging reports, policy briefs and essays.

When you graduate, you'll be in a strong position to generate creative solutions that benefit the global economy and international society. You will be suited for roles in security, development, social policy, governance, advocacy and communications. Previous graduates have gone on to work in parliaments, political parties, third sector and civil society organisations.

You'll be suited for roles in security, development, social policy, governance, advocacy and communications. Previous graduates have gone on to work in parliaments, political parties, third sector and civil society organisations.

Prefer to study online?
If you'd rather not attend university in person, you can study MA International Relations online.

What you'll experience

On this course you'll:


• Immerse yourself in pressing topics, such as whether global civil society can promote security, development and rights, how terrorism and political violence shape domestic and political affairs, how nuclear and other security threats have evolved, and the role the EU endeavours to play in global politics



• Learn from passionate and experienced academics involved in leading international relations research on subjects including development NGOs and language, transnational civil society, and remote warfare



• Build up expertise in issues relating to security, risk and global civil society, and understand how to apply this to real world problems as they happen



• Hear expert guest lecturers respond to current global events, the security dimensions and international ramifications, such as the conflict in Ukraine



• Develop a high level of specialist knowledge in an area of your choice through your dissertation



You can study the course full-time or part-time, either on campus or through distance learning.

Careers and opportunities

With a rounded skill set, and knowledge of international issues, you'll be an informed global citizen, with a sense of responsibility and commitment to ethical practice and issues of global social justice.

What can I do with a Master's degree in international relations?

This MA International Relations Master's degree will put you in a strong position to pursue job roles in areas and organisations such as:


- national, European and international state institutions


- political parties


- political lobbyists


- think tanks


- security and risk analysis


- foreign affairs analysis


- political communication and journalism


You could also continue your studies in postgraduate research, leading to a qualification such as a PhD.

You can get help and support from our Careers and Employability service in finding a role and for 5 years after you you leave the University.