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If you’re curious about how the world works and want to understand global politics, the MA (Hons) in International Relations at St Andrews is a perfect fit. Over four years, you’ll explore everything from international law to global economics, gaining the skills to analyze, debate, and influence real-world issues.
Curriculum Structure
First Year: You’ll start with the essentials, like Introduction to International Relations and International Political Economy, building a solid foundation in how countries interact and how global systems function. This year is all about developing your analytical skills and understanding the bigger picture of international affairs.
Second Year: Here, you’ll dive into specialized areas such as International Security and Comparative Politics. You’ll explore why states act the way they do, how institutions operate, and the complexities behind conflicts and cooperation across the world.
Third Year: This is when your knowledge really deepens. Modules like International Political Economy, International Regimes and Organisations, and International Terrorism challenge you to think critically about global issues and prepare you to conduct your own research.
Fourth Year: Your final year gives you the chance to shine with a 12,000-word dissertation on a topic that fascinates you. Alongside modules like International Law and Institutions and Globalisation, you’ll refine your expertise and graduate ready to step into the world of international affairs.
Focus Areas
International Security, International Political Economy, Comparative Politics, International Law, Human Rights, Globalization, Peace and Conflict Studies, Terrorism and Political Violence
Learning Outcomes
Critical thinking about global issues, strong research skills, understanding international institutions, policy analysis, and ethical decision-making in world politics
Professional Alignment
This degree meets the rigorous standards set by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for International Relations, ensuring you graduate with a qualification respected by employers and institutions worldwide.
Reputation
St Andrews is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for International Relations. Its graduates are highly employable and often go on to work in diplomacy, international organizations, government, and global policy roles.
At St Andrews, studying International Relations isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting hands-on experience and building real-world skills. From day one, you’ll engage in interactive seminars, group projects, and research opportunities that bring global politics to life. The program gives you access to modern facilities, expert guidance, and plenty of ways to apply what you learn outside the classroom.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience and make the most of the resources available:
Arts Building – Your academic home, with a 90-seat lecture theatre and seminar rooms equipped with up-to-date audio-visual tech for interactive learning.
Research Internships (StARIS) – Work on real-world projects through the St Andrews Research Internship Scheme, gaining hands-on experience in international relations research.
Collaborative Learning – Group projects and seminars help you develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills essential for global careers.
Library & Digital Resources – Access extensive library collections, online databases, and digital tools to support your independent research and coursework.
Global Community – Learn alongside students and faculty from around the world, building cross-cultural awareness and a truly international perspective.
These opportunities make sure that by the time you graduate, you’re not only knowledgeable about global politics but also confident in applying your skills in practical settings.
Graduating with an MA (Hons) in International Relations from St Andrews opens doors to a wide range of exciting careers across the globe. You’ll finish the program ready to take on roles where you can make a real impact, such as:
Diplomatic Service Officer – helping shape your country’s foreign policy and international relations.
Policy Officer – analyzing and advising on political and social issues at governmental or international organizations.
Political Risk Analyst – assessing global political risks for corporations or think tanks.
Public Affairs Consultant – influencing public policy and advising organizations on political strategy.
To help you succeed in these paths:
Careers Centre – Get one-on-one guidance, CV workshops, and interview preparation. Alumni can even access services for up to three years after graduating.
Graduate Success – Over 96% of St Andrews graduates are employed or in further study within months of finishing their degree.
Global Partnerships – Opportunities to study or collaborate with institutions like the University of Oslo expand your network and experience.
Industry Connections – The university’s strong links with government bodies and NGOs provide internships and practical work experience.
Accreditation – The degree is widely recognized internationally, giving your career a strong professional edge.
Further Academic Progression:
If you’re thinking of continuing your studies, St Andrews offers a variety of pathways:
MLitt Programs – Explore areas like International Security Studies or Peacebuilding and Mediation for advanced research and practical skills.
PhD Opportunities – For those interested in an academic or research career, the university offers PhD programs in International Relations and related fields.
With this degree, you’ll leave St Andrews not only with knowledge but with the practical skills, professional connections, and confidence to thrive in the global arena.
A minimum average of 90% (with 90% or higher in any prerequisite subjects) in Standard XII examinations, or A1-A2 if you are taking examinations used by Central Boards, SQA Highers: AAAB, GCE A-Levels: AAA, IB points: 38, IELTS score of 7.0, with a minimum score of 6.5, TOEFL (IBT) of 92 overall with at least 20 in all components, CAE/CPE of 176, PTE (Academic) of 62 overall with at least 59 in each componentIB - 38 points overall with 6,6,6 at Higher LevelIELTS - Minimum overall score 7.0, with at least 6.5 in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).TOEFL iBT - Minimum overall score 94, with Listening 20, Reading 19, Writing 24, and Speaking 20.Indian - Minimum overall average 90%, with 90%+ in prerequisite subjects (A1–A2 under Central Boards).USA - Strong high school record with mostly A/B grades in honors courses, plus at least 3 AP scores of 4+ (competitive with 5s); SAT (1320+) or ACT (28+) optional for 2024–2026 entry.Diplomatic Service OfficerPolicy OfficerPolitical Risk AnalystPublic Affairs ConsultantInternational Development OfficerHuman Rights OfficerIntelligence AnalystGlobal Communications SpecialistResearcher in Think TanksNon-Governmental Organization (NGO) Project ManagerInternational Law ConsultantMedia and Political CorrespondentGovernment AdvisorTrade and Economic Policy AnalystConflict Resolution Specialist
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University of St Andrews
