MA International Relations

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Regents University London

Program Overview

The MA International Relations at Regent's University London prepares students to understand and respond to the complex political, economic and security challenges shaping today's interconnected world. Designed for graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, the programme combines international politics, diplomacy, global governance, security studies and geopolitical analysis, equipping students with the analytical, research and policy-making skills required for careers in international organisations, government, NGOs and global business.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1

Students establish a strong foundation in international relations through modules including Theories of International Relations, Global Governance, and Research Methods for International Relations. They explore major political theories, the evolution of the international system and the role of international institutions while developing the research and analytical skills needed to examine global affairs critically.

Term 2

The second term focuses on contemporary international challenges through International Security, Foreign Policy Analysis, and International Political Economy. Students examine geopolitical conflicts, diplomacy, global economic systems and foreign policy decision-making while learning how governments and international organisations respond to emerging global issues.

Term 3

In the final stage, students apply their knowledge through Advanced Research Methods, a substantial Dissertation or Policy Research Project, and practical international policy investigations. Working on contemporary global issues, they develop advanced research, policy analysis and strategic thinking skills while producing evidence-based recommendations for international organisations and policymakers.

Focus Areas (in a string)

International Relations, Global Governance, Diplomacy, International Security, Foreign Policy, International Political Economy, Geopolitics, Conflict Resolution, Global Development, International Law, Human Rights, Public Policy, Strategic Studies, International Organisations.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Analyse international political systems, evaluate global security challenges, assess foreign policy strategies, understand international organisations and governance, apply research methods to global issues, develop evidence-based policy recommendations, communicate effectively in international contexts, evaluate geopolitical developments, conduct independent research and apply ethical decision-making in international affairs.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme combines academic scholarship with practical policy analysis, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), think tanks and multinational corporations. Students develop research, communication and policy analysis skills that are highly valued across the international affairs sector.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Students benefit from studying at Regent's University London, recognised for its personalised teaching, strong international outlook and central London location. The programme offers opportunities to engage with diplomats, policymakers, international organisations and industry experts through guest lectures, policy discussions, consultancy projects and networking events, helping graduates build the professional knowledge and global perspective needed for careers in international relations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MA International Relations combines academic study with practical policy analysis to help students develop the research, diplomatic and strategic skills required for careers in international affairs. Throughout the programme, students examine real geopolitical developments, analyse international policy challenges, participate in debates and simulations, and work on research projects that reflect contemporary global issues. Studying in central London also provides opportunities to engage with embassies, international organisations, think tanks and policy professionals.

Students strengthen their practical skills through the following experiences:

Participate in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Workshops designed to enhance leadership, employability, communication and professional diplomatic skills.
Complete a Dissertation or Policy Research Project in the final stage, investigating contemporary international issues and developing evidence-based policy recommendations.
Take part in policy simulations, negotiations, debates and international case studies, applying diplomatic and strategic thinking to real global challenges.
Analyse current geopolitical developments, international conflicts and global governance issues, using real-world case studies to strengthen policy analysis and decision-making skills.
Gain access to internship and placement opportunities, enabling students to build practical workplace experience within government departments, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks and multinational organisations.
Learn from guest lecturers, diplomats, policymakers, international relations specialists and global affairs experts, benefiting from Regent's extensive international network.
Develop global teamwork skills through collaborative projects with students representing 130+ nationalities, reflecting the multicultural nature of international diplomacy and global governance.
Study a business-critical foreign language alongside the programme to strengthen international communication and cross-cultural negotiation capabilities.
Use Blackboard, Regent's virtual learning environment, to access learning materials, collaborate on policy projects, submit coursework and receive academic feedback.
Access the Regent's Library, offering specialist international relations, politics, law and economics databases, academic journals, policy papers and collaborative study spaces to support research and policy analysis.
Benefit from small class sizes that encourage personalised mentoring, interactive seminars and close collaboration with academic staff and experienced international relations practitioners.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Relations leave Regent's with the analytical, diplomatic and policy-making skills needed to address complex global challenges and shape international decision-making. The programme prepares students for careers across government agencies, international organisations, diplomatic services, NGOs, multinational corporations and policy institutes, with graduates pursuing roles such as Policy Analyst, Diplomatic Officer, International Affairs Consultant, and Political Risk Analyst.

Students receive extensive career support and professional development through the following opportunities:

Dedicated Careers, Enterprise & Industry Team offering personalised career consultations, CV and cover letter reviews, interview coaching, assessment centre preparation, LinkedIn optimisation and career planning support.
Access to Handshake, connecting students with 650,000+ global employers, alongside exclusive internships, graduate vacancies, networking opportunities and employer events.
Opportunity to participate in policy forums, international affairs seminars, networking events and employer meet-ups, where students connect directly with diplomats, policymakers, NGO leaders and international relations professionals.
Support for research projects, internships and graduate applications, with tailored guidance based on students' career aspirations within diplomacy, international organisations, public policy and global governance.
Students interested in social innovation or international entrepreneurship can develop new initiatives through The Hive, Regent's enterprise and business incubation initiative, with mentoring, networking and start-up support.
Graduates develop transferable skills in policy analysis, diplomacy, international negotiation, geopolitical analysis, conflict resolution, strategic thinking, research, cross-cultural communication and leadership, enabling careers in international organisations, government, NGOs, political consulting, international business and global development.
Regent's global alumni network and strong employer connections across London's diplomatic, political and international business community help graduates build professional relationships and access worldwide career opportunities.
Graduates may also be eligible to apply for the UK Graduate visa, allowing them to work or look for work in the UK after completing their studies, subject to current UK immigration regulations.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MA International Relations, graduates can pursue doctoral studies such as a PhD or DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) in International Relations, Political Science, International Security, Global Governance, International Development or Public Policy. They may also continue their professional development through specialist qualifications and certifications in Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution, Human Rights, International Development, Global Risk Analysis, Public Policy and International Law to further strengthen their global career prospects.