This MA gives you the opportunity to explore the character of the contemporary world in an interdisciplinary manner, drawing upon a strong theoretical basis as well as an empirical grounding.

There are options to gain practical experience through an internship, and the degree is designed to allow you the option to study subjects offered in departments other than Politics.

This programme differs from MA degrees in international relations offered elsewhere because although your study of the international and global will include the study of relations between nation-states, it will also encompass the study of how culture and knowledge impinge upon, and are reshaped by, globalisation.

The programme is especially relevant if you are considering further study at PhD level, or if you work in areas where an understanding of international politics is essential (journalism, for example). It offers valuable training and analytical skills for those working in international corporations, teaching, non-governmental organisations, the United Nations, other international organisations, diplomatic services, defence and other areas of government.

What you study

The programme covers the following courses:

Core courses

• Global Political Cultures 1: Knowledge, Power and Culture (15 credits)
• Theories of International Relations (15 credits)
• Dissertation (60 CATS)

Options

You choose courses to the value of 90 credits from:

Either
A list provided by the Department of Politics at the beginning of the academic year.

Or
A combination of units from:

a) a list provided by the department at the beginning of the academic year, and
b) others units from other departments in the college approved by the Department of Politics, but not amounting to more than 30 CATS from outside the Department of Politics.

Dissertation and research supervision

You are also required to write a Dissertation of not more than 10,000 words in the general area international studies, the precise topic to be selected with the approval of a member of staff acting as your supervisor.

Assessment

Coursework; written examinations; dissertation.

Skills

You'll develop:

• a critical engagement with the broad field of international studies
• communication skills
• research skills
• presentation skills

Careers

Central and local government; management and personnel work; finance; the media; teaching, lecturing and research; health service administration. Many of our graduates undertake professional training in law, accountancy, journalism, business administration, teaching, social work or nursing.

Register your interest

If you register your interest in this programme we will keep you informed about open days and send you relevant further information. If you subsequently decide to apply for this programme you will be able to use the same login details to apply.