MPhil International Relations

18 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The MPhil International Relations at the University of Lincoln is a dedicated research degree that lets you become an independent scholar, exploring original questions in global politics, conflict, governance and foreign policy under the guidance of expert supervisors. It’s ideal for students who are passionate about producing high-quality research, contributing new insights to international relations debates, and preparing for careers in academia, policy institutes or specialist analytical roles.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-Time / First Phase)

In your first year, your focus will be on developing and refining your research project: you’ll define your research question, engage with key scholarly literature and work closely with supervisors to build a robust theoretical and methodological foundation. The School of Social and Political Sciences ensures structured activity and monitoring so you can grow as an independent researcher, supported by research training that sharpens your analytical techniques and equips you to work with both qualitative and quantitative data. You’ll also be encouraged to contribute to research seminar series and engage with broader research communities at Lincoln, helping you situate your work within contemporary debates.

Year 2 (Full-Time / Advanced Research & Dissemination)

Later in the programme, you will progress to the core research and writing phase, producing an original thesis that makes an academically significant contribution to the field of international relations. Under ongoing supervision from two appointed academic experts, you will refine your argumentation, deepen your methodological rigor and prepare your work for possible dissemination at seminars or publication. You may also have opportunities to engage with external experts and participate in research networks, enhancing both your academic profile and future professional avenues.

Focus Areas (in a string)

Independent scholarly research, global politics, research design and methodology, conflict studies, governance and foreign policy, contemporary international issues.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Produce original research, critically evaluate international relations theories, apply advanced research methods, communicate complex arguments clearly in written form, contribute to scholarly debates in IR.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

This research degree aligns with the expectations of professional research and academic careers, offering structured research training through Lincoln’s Doctoral School and the School of Social and Political Sciences, preparing you for roles in universities, policy think-tanks, international organisations and research consultancies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Choosing the MPhil International Relations at the University of Lincoln means you’re stepping into a research environment that’s built around doing real academic work, not just reading about it. You’ll gain practical research skills through close supervision with academic experts, develop advanced methods for analysing global political issues, and use excellent campus facilities including Lincoln’s Great Central Warehouse Library, which houses extensive collections of books, journals and digital resources to support deep investigation into international relations topics. As part of Lincoln’s research community, you’ll also benefit from regular research-oriented events, workshops and access to the broader postgraduate network across the School of Social and Political Sciences, helping you connect your own research with current debates across the discipline.

Here’s how your experiential learning unfolds in practice:

Independent Research Supervision: You’ll work one-on-one with experienced supervisors throughout your study, shaping and refining your thesis topic and methodology—an immersive experience that mirrors real academic research.
Advanced Research Training: Structured research training activities help you apply qualitative and quantitative research tools to your own project, strengthening your methodological confidence and analytical thinking.
Library and Digital Resources: The Great Central Warehouse Library gives you physical and electronic access to a vast range of specialist texts, international relations journals, and databases crucial for thesis development and literature reviews.
Research-Led Academic Community: You’ll be part of a vibrant research culture where seminar series, staff research interests and academic networks provide opportunities to discuss your ideas and receive feedback from peers and staff alike.
Supportive Learning Infrastructure: Lincoln’s postgraduate research framework includes access to dedicated research support services and workshops that bolster your skills in academic writing, data interpretation, and publication readiness.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MPhil International Relations at Lincoln go on to diverse careers where research expertise and analytical insight are highly valued, including roles such as Policy Researcher in government or think-tanks, Analyst in international organisations, Consultant on global affairs and Academic researcher or lecturer — all built on your ability to produce original, impactful research that addresses real issues in world politics. With a structured research degree that strengthens your critical thinking and methodological skills, you’ll be well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to scholarship, policy debates and evidence-based decision-making in the public or private sectors:

Careers & Employability Support: The University of Lincoln Careers & Employability Service offers tailored guidance for research postgraduates, including one-to-one careers appointments, workshops, industry insights and access to job boards like CareerLinc, helping you refine applications, prepare for interviews and connect with employers during and after your studies. Graduates can access support for up to two years after completing their degree.
Graduate Outcomes: Lincoln’s graduate data shows a very strong picture overall for employment or further study — recent survey evidence indicates that over 90 % of respondents were in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, exceeding wider sector averages and demonstrating the practical value of a Lincoln degree.
Employer Engagement & Services: The Careers team works with a wide network of employers and has dedicated services to help postgraduates connect with opportunities, including internships, graduate roles and tailored job alerts (e.g., via the CareerLinc platform and live Q&A sessions with employers).
University Reputation & Accreditation Value: The University of Lincoln holds a Gold rating in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) — the highest possible — reflecting excellence in teaching quality, student experience and graduate outcomes, which enhances the long-term credibility of your qualification with future employers and academic institutions.
Alumni & Networking: As a Lincoln graduate, you join a global alumni community that can support your ongoing professional and academic journey, with opportunities to stay connected through Lincoln’s Alumni Network and Careers services, helping you maintain contacts, access events and leverage professional connections.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing your MPhil International Relations, you may choose to advance to a PhD in International Relations, Politics or related social sciences, positioning yourself for careers in academia, advanced policy research or specialist advisory roles. In addition, post-experience research and publication can open doors to national and international academic forums, policy institutes and consultancy sectors where advanced research credentials are highly respected.