University of Portsmouth

MA International Relations

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.

Entry Requirements

  • A good honours degree in a Social Science, Humanities or related subject. Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered. 
  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.5.

Career Prospects

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.

Work experience and career planning

If you're not already in employment, our Careers and Employability service can help you find relevant work experience during your course. We can help you identify placements, internships, voluntary roles and opportunities that will complement your studies.

We'll also be available to help, advise and support you for up to 5 years as you advance in your career.

Course Details

Each module on this course is worth a certain number of credits.

You need to study modules worth a total of 180 credits. For example, 4 modules worth 30 credits and 1 module worth 60 credits.

Modules you'll study


Core

  • Dissertation - 45 credits
  • Exploring International Relations - 30 credits
  • Researching International Relations - 15 credits

Optional

You can take 3 optional modules.

  • Contemporary Security in International Relations: Providers and Challenges - 30 credits
  • Defence and Deterrence - 30 credits
  • European International Relations: Facing New Challenges - 30 credits
  • NGOs and Social Movements - 30 credits
  • Resistance and Rebellion - 30 credits
  • Terrorism and Political Violence - 30 credit

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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