MA International Studies

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Limerick

Program Overview

This Master of Arts in International Studies gives you a powerful foundation in global affairs, helping you analyse key issues like terrorism, inequality, nuclear proliferation and globalisation through the lens of international relations theory. It’s ideal for graduates who want to build careers in diplomacy, public administration, NGOs, international organisations or global policy analysis.

Curriculum Structure

Core Study (Semester / Full Programme):
The MA starts with essential modules such as Graduate Seminar in International Relations, Graduate Research Methods, and Graduate Seminar in Development, giving you both theoretical depth and strong research skills. You also explore specialised areas through electives like Graduate Seminar in Institutions and Policies of the European Union, Graduate Seminar in Contemporary Political Theory, and Multilevel Governance: Concepts and Practice — all designed to sharpen your analytical insight into how global systems operate.

Focus areas:
International relations theory, global politics, development, governance, and research methods.

Learning outcomes:
Graduate with the ability to critically analyse global challenges, interpret political and social forces shaping world events, apply research methods to real questions, and communicate complex ideas effectively.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This is a Level 9 Master’s qualification on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), recognised internationally for postgraduate study.

Reputation (employability rankings):
University of Limerick is a respected research-led university in Ireland with strong interdisciplinary expertise, and its graduates are well-placed for roles in international organisations, government, policy think-tanks, NGOs, and research institutions worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain practical skills through simulations, direct policy engagement, research methods training, and real-world projects, often using the university's specialized research centers and political archives. The approach is less about labs and more about applying analytical frameworks to current global issues. A typical program might include the following experiential components:

Simulation Exercises: Many programs run Model United Nations (MUN), crisis negotiation simulations, or political scenario exercises where students role-play as diplomats or policymakers, applying theories of international diplomacy and conflict resolution.
Research and Policy Analysis: A core practical skill is developed through a substantial dissertation or capstone project. This often involves primary research, policy analysis, or a detailed case study on a current international issue, sometimes conducted in partnership with an external organization.
Guest Lectures and Workshops: Regular sessions with practitioners—such as diplomats, NGO workers, journalists, and policy analysts—provide direct insights into career paths and the application of academic knowledge in real-world settings.
Career-Focused Placements: Some programs offer optional or credited internships, placements, or field research opportunities with partner organizations like government agencies, international organizations (e.g., UN bodies), think tanks, or NGOs.
Specialized Facilities and Resources: Students typically have access to:
- University libraries with extensive holdings in political science, government documents, and international law.
- Dedicated research institutes or centers focused on areas like European studies, security, development, or human rights, which often host events and provide networking opportunities.
- Digital tools for data analysis, such as NVivo for qualitative research or SPSS/STATA/R for quantitative analysis of global datasets.

Progression & Future Opportunities

University of Limerick's MA in International Studies (full-time 1 year, NFQ Level 9) applies international relations theories to contemporary issues like terrorism, nuclear proliferation, global inequality, and globalization through core modules including Graduate Seminar in International Relations, Research Methods, Development, EU Institutions/Policies, and electives, plus an optional field trip to Brussels/Geneva. Graduates pursue careers in journalism, public administration, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, interest groups, business, or further PhD/professional qualifications.

Career Support Elements

University Services: Research methods training and analytical skills development prepare for policy/journalism roles.
Employment Stats: Strong outcomes in public/international sectors due to practical focus.
University-Industry Partnerships: Study trips to EU/UN hubs and practitioner seminars build networks.
Long-term Accreditation Value: Theoretical/practical blend supports leadership in global affairs.
Graduation Outcomes: Diplomacy, development agencies, media, and corporate international roles.

Further Academic Progression
Graduates advance to PhD programs or professional studies in law/commerce, leveraging research competence.