International Relations – MA

Why study this course?

This course focuses on international relations today and on providing an understanding of global dynamics. It offers a broad range of modules including a work placement opportunity, with subject areas encompassing international relations theory, international politics and international public law.

More about this course

The International Relations MA aims to equip you for analytical research on contemporary structures, processes and factors in international relations. It’s ideal for those whose career plans involve dealing with international affairs but who lack an academic background in the field.

The course is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars, and there’s a heavy emphasis on discussion and presentation.

If you’re interested in policy issues, the vocational nature of the course is further enhanced by the dissertation; this allows you to engage in a substantial piece of research and to apply your knowledge and skills in an area of particular interest to you and your career aspirations.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2022/23 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules include:

International Law and International Order (core, 20 credits)

International Relations Dissertation (core, 60 credits)

Theory and Research Methods in International Relations (core, 20 credits)

American Foreign Policy in the 21st Century (option, 20 credits)

Human Rights and the International Order (option, 20 credits)

Human Security (option, 20 credits)

International Conflict Resolution (option, 20 credits)

Religion and International Relations (option, 20 credits)

Security Studies (option, 20 credits)

Terrorism and Counter Terrorism (option, 20 credits)

The Evolution of the Modern Inter-State System  (option, 20 credits)

Transnational Organised Crime (option, 20 credits)

Where this course can take you

Students who have taken this course have progressed to an array of careers such as the public sector, Non-Governmental Organisations and international companies. The course has proven particularly beneficial for those who are seeking work in organisations operating in a transnational environment.