Master of Arts in International Relations

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Sharjah

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in International Relations at the University of Sharjah is designed for students who want a deep and practical understanding of global politics, diplomacy, security, and international policy. It is well suited for those aiming to work in government, international organisations, think tanks, NGOs, or to pursue advanced academic research in international affairs.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop a strong theoretical and analytical foundation in international relations. Core courses such as Contending Theories in International Relations introduce the main schools of thought used to interpret global political behaviour, while Foreign Policy Analysis examines how states design and implement their international strategies. Through Global Security Challenges, students gain insight into traditional and emerging security issues affecting the international system.

Year 2:
The second year focuses on advanced analysis and independent research. Students study Global Political Economy to understand how political and economic forces interact globally, alongside Research Methodologies which equips them with essential academic research skills. The year culminates in a Master’s Thesis, allowing students to conduct in-depth research on a topic aligned with their professional or academic interests under expert supervision.

Electives and Specialisation:
Students can further customise their learning through electives such as Great Power Politics in the Middle East, US Foreign Policy, Political Economy of Sustainable Development, and Political Economy of Migration, enabling focused study in areas like regional politics, development, or global governance.

Focus areas: International relations theory, foreign policy, global and regional security, political economy, research and thesis development

Learning outcomes: Advanced understanding of international relations concepts and theories, ability to analyse global and Gulf-region political issues, strong research and critical thinking skills, capacity to address complex international challenges

Professional alignment (accreditation): The University of Sharjah is a nationally accredited institution, recognised for maintaining strong academic standards and delivering high-quality postgraduate education.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Sharjah is widely respected in the region for its strong links to public policy and international affairs, with graduates well prepared for careers in diplomacy, government agencies, international organisations, and research institutions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Master of Arts in International Relations at the University of Sharjah places strong emphasis on learning through real-world engagement and applied research. Students gain practical skills by actively participating in policy discussions, research projects, and academic forums that reflect the realities of diplomacy, international organisations, and global governance. Supported by the College of Public Policy and the university’s research ecosystem, students are encouraged to connect theory with practice throughout their studies, particularly through collaborative work and independent research.

This experiential learning approach is delivered through:

Interactive seminars, conferences, and guest lectures featuring diplomats, international policy experts, and academic specialists
Group-based discussions, presentations, and policy analysis projects integrated into core and elective courses
Model United Nations–style simulations and debate activities that strengthen negotiation, diplomacy, and leadership skills
A supervised master’s thesis that allows students to conduct in-depth research using academic databases and faculty expertise
Access to the University of Sharjah’s main library system, offering extensive digital journals, policy reports, and international relations research resources
Engagement with university research centres and institutes that support public policy, regional studies, and global affairs

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Arts in International Relations at the University of Sharjah are well prepared for careers that require strong global awareness, policy insight, and analytical thinking. Alumni typically move into roles such as foreign affairs analyst, policy advisor, diplomatic service officer, or international programme manager, applying their knowledge across government, international organisations, research institutions, and the private sector:

The University of Sharjah’s Career and Professional Development services support students with career counselling, CV and interview preparation, and guidance on accessing employment opportunities in public policy and international fields
The university’s continuing education and professional development initiatives help graduates strengthen practical and transferable skills that align with current employer expectations
Through its international relations and global engagement offices, the university offers opportunities for academic exchange and international exposure, helping students build professional networks beyond the region
The university maintains active collaborations with public institutions and external partners, supporting research projects, professional engagement, and graduate employability
While specific employment statistics and salary figures for this programme are not formally published, the degree develops highly transferable skills valued in diplomacy, policy research, international development, and global organisations
Graduates benefit from the long-term value of a nationally accredited degree from a well-established public university, supporting career progression across sectors

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, students may continue their academic journey by pursuing doctoral studies in international relations, political science, public policy, or related fields. The programme’s strong research focus and thesis component provide a solid foundation for those aiming for careers in academia, research, or advanced policy analysis.