International Relations and Language & Linguistics, MA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The MA in International Relations and Language & Linguistics at the University of Aberdeen is a unique program that combines the study of global politics with the fascinating world of language. It’s perfect for students who are curious about how countries interact and communicate, and who want to understand both international affairs and the role language plays in society.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year is all about building a solid foundation. You’ll explore “Introduction to International Relations” to understand the key ideas shaping global politics, and “Introduction to Language and Linguistics” to get to grips with how language works, from sounds and sentence structures to meaning. These modules give you a balanced start in both areas.

Year 2:
In Year 2, you start to dig deeper. “Global Political Economy” shows how politics and economics interact worldwide, while “Phonetics and Phonology” teaches the sounds of language and their patterns. “Syntax and Semantics” will help you understand how sentences are structured and how meaning is created, connecting theory to real-world language use.

Year 3:
Year 3 is when you start specialising. “International Security” covers conflicts, war, and peacekeeping efforts around the globe. “Sociolinguistics” looks at how language changes in society, and “Language Acquisition” explores how people learn languages, giving insight into both cognitive processes and practical applications.

Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll focus on independent research and applying everything you’ve learned. “International Law” examines the rules that govern international relations, and your “Dissertation in Language & Linguistics” lets you dive into a topic you’re passionate about. This is your chance to showcase your analytical and research skills.

Focus Areas

International Relations, Global Politics, Political Theory, Sociolinguistics, Language Acquisition, Phonetics, Syntax, Semantics, Language Policy

Learning Outcomes

You’ll develop skills in critical thinking about global issues, understanding political systems, applying linguistic theory, conducting research, communicating across cultures, evaluating policies, and even teaching language effectively.

Professional Alignment

This degree prepares you for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, education, media, and any field where understanding politics and communication is key.

Reputation

Aberdeen is well-known for its strong research and teaching in both international relations and linguistics, giving graduates excellent employability prospects worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Aberdeen, learning goes far beyond lectures. As a student in International Relations and Language & Linguistics, you’ll get hands-on experience that brings theory to life. Whether it’s working on group projects, exploring different languages, or getting involved in real-world research, you’ll develop skills that employers love. The university also offers access to excellent facilities, research centers, and even opportunities to study abroad, so you can truly broaden your horizons while you learn.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:

Aberlangs Initiative: Support for multilingualism and community languages, giving you a chance to engage with real-world language projects.
Group Projects: Many courses include collaborative projects, helping you build teamwork and communication skills.
Internships: Part-time and summer internships through the university provide hands-on work experience in relevant fields.
Research Centers: Access to cutting-edge centers focused on language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and discourse analysis.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Spend a semester overseas to experience different cultures and global perspectives.
Language Learning Resources: Dedicated tools and support to improve proficiency in modern languages.
Libraries and Digital Tools: State-of-the-art libraries and online resources to support your research and assignments.

These experiences ensure that you leave Aberdeen not only with a strong academic foundation but also with practical skills, confidence, and global awareness.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Aberdeen’s MA in International Relations and Language & Linguistics leave equipped with a unique combination of political insight and linguistic expertise, making them highly attractive to employers around the world. You’ll be ready for roles where understanding global issues and communication skills are essential, such as:

Diplomatic Service Officer
Policy Analyst
Language Specialist or Translator
International Communications Coordinator

Here’s how Aberdeen supports you in turning your degree into a career:

Careers and Employability Service: Personalized guidance for CVs, interviews, networking events, and career planning.
Graduate Success: Around 97% of Aberdeen graduates secure a job or go on to further study within six months.
Salary Insights: Graduates earn an average of £25,000 after 15 months, increasing to £26,500 after five years.
University–Industry Partnerships: Access internships, consultancy projects, and events that connect you directly with employers.
Long-Term Value: Your combined expertise in international relations and linguistics gives you versatility and a global outlook.
Graduation Outcomes: Many graduates go on to work in government, international organizations, NGOs, media, or education.

Further Academic Progression:
After your MA, you can continue your studies through:

Master’s Programs in International Relations, Linguistics, or related areas
PhD Research in specialized topics within politics or language studies
Postgraduate Diplomas in Translation Studies, International Law, or related fields

These options allow you to deepen your knowledge, specialise further, and open doors to advanced careers or academic research.