MA International Relations

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The MA International Relations at the University of Lincoln offers a rich exploration of global politics, conflict, inequality and governance, combining interdisciplinary insight from sociology, history, law and economics with cutting-edge research skills. It suits students who are passionate about understanding global issues, developing analytical and research expertise, and preparing for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, policy, or further academic research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-Time / Core Learning)

In your first and only year (full-time) on the MA International Relations, you will build a strong foundation in the discipline through core modules that immerse you in critical theory and contemporary global issues. You’ll begin with Theories and Concepts in International Relations, which introduces the key frameworks used to interpret global politics, and Globalisation, which places contemporary international systems in the context of expanding economic, cultural and political interconnectedness. Alongside these, Researching Social and Political Sciences prepares you with essential research methods — both qualitative and quantitative — equipping you to design robust academic projects and apply analytical tools with confidence.

Year 1 (Dissertation and Specialisation)

Later in the programme, you will undertake a Master’s Dissertation in International Relations, allowing you to pursue an independent research project on a topic that aligns with your interests, supported by expert Lincoln tutors and research seminars. Depending on your interests, you can also choose from a wide range of electives such as Analysing Policy Success and Failure, Comparative Legislatures, Global Health: Policy and Practice or Global Politics & Religion, helping you tailor your studies to niches like public policy, health governance, or religion in global politics. This combination of core and optional studies ensures a personalised and intellectually rigorous academic experience.

Focus Areas (in a string)

Global politics, international theory, globalisation, research methods, policy analysis, comparative politics, elective thematic issues (health, religion, gender, power and society).

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Develop advanced understanding of international relations theory, apply qualitative and quantitative research methods, critically examine global issues and policies, conduct independent research to professional standards, communicate complex ideas effectively.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

The programme is delivered by the School of Social and Political Sciences at Lincoln, a research-active environment that emphasises rigorous analytical skills and prepares graduates for roles in diplomacy, policy analysis, international organisations and the wider public sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the MA International Relations at the University of Lincoln, you don’t just learn theories — you apply them. The programme places a strong emphasis on developing your practical research skills through core research methods training and a substantial dissertation project that teaches you how to work with real data, manage digital information and present findings with confidence. You’ll also benefit from Lincoln’s vibrant research environment in the School of Social and Political Sciences, tapping into the latest debates and insights from active researchers and guest speakers, while gaining access to excellent campus resources such as the Great Central Warehouse Library and collaborative learning spaces.

Here’s how that translates into hands-on practice:

Research Methods and Dissertation: You’ll gain practical experience in qualitative and quantitative research techniques, digital data handling and analysis, and academic writing — skills embedded throughout assessments and developed further in your Master’s Dissertation project.
Seminars & Group Projects: Small-group seminars and discussions foster collaboration, where you’ll debate, present and work on real-world case studies with peers and tutors — building teamwork, communication and analytical skills central to careers in politics and international affairs.
Field-Relevant Opportunities: While not compulsory, the programme may include or signpost optional field trips to key political institutions and opportunities to engage with research centres such as the Lincoln Parliamentary Research Centre, enhancing your contextual understanding of global governance.
Access to World-Class Library Resources: The Great Central Warehouse Library on Brayford Pool Campus gives you access to hundreds of thousands of books, journals and specialist electronic resources crucial for postgraduate research in international relations.
Supportive Research Community: You’ll be part of the School of Social and Political Sciences, where active research and discussion around contemporary political issues allow you to deepen practical knowledge and network with academics and peers.
IT and Digital Tools: The programme embeds practical information technology skills — from digital data management to the use of electronic research databases and presentation tools — so you graduate ready to produce professional-standard analytical outputs.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MA International Relations at Lincoln go on to careers in public policy, diplomacy, international organisations and global research, with roles such as International Policy Analyst, Diplomatic Affairs Specialist, Public Sector Research Officer and NGO Programme Coordinator common among alumni. This programme is designed to give you the analytical edge and practical confidence so you can step straight into professional life, or continue your academic journey with advanced study.

Here’s how Lincoln supports your future success and what outcomes you can expect:

Career Support Services: Lincoln’s Careers & Employability Service provides one-to-one guidance, CV and interview support, job search help and workshops throughout your studies and for up to two years after graduation, helping you prepare for the job market and secure relevant roles.
Graduate Outcomes & Earnings: Politics and related graduates from Lincoln report average earnings of around £28,500 15 months after completing their studies, with a range typically between £26,000 – £34,000, and around 80 % going on to work or further study within 15 months — strong evidence of career traction after graduation.
Employer Engagement & Recruitment Opportunities: The University’s Careers team works with hundreds of employers and runs initiatives (e.g., job boards, internship lists, events) that help Politics and International Relations students and graduates connect with roles and organisations seeking analytical, policy and global affairs expertise.
Long-Term Value & Accreditation: Lincoln has been awarded Gold in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), reflecting high-quality teaching and positive student outcomes — a credential that enhances the long-term credibility of your degree with employers and academic institutions.
Graduation Outcomes: Lincoln graduates from across disciplines have gone on to secure roles at major organisations — such as the BBC, Lloyds Bank, GSK, Boots and Rolls-Royce — demonstrating the broad applicability of critical thinking, analytical and communication skills cultivated during postgraduate study.