MA International Relations

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Westminster

Program Overview

The MA International Relations (Part-Time) at the University of Westminster offers a rich, multidisciplinary framework for understanding global political dynamics, power relations, diplomacy and conflict in the contemporary world. It suits students who want to deepen their analytical skills and engage with international affairs, while balancing their studies with professional or personal commitments in the vibrant setting of London.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Part-Time / Core Foundations)

In the first year of this two-year part-time programme, you develop a strong theoretical foundation in international relations that will support your advanced study and independent research. You begin with International Relations: Theoretical Perspectives, where you explore key IR theories and how they shape understanding of global politics, and follow this with Beyond International Relations, a module that critically examines topics such as humanitarian action, human rights, global justice and the evolving roles of states and non-state actors. These core units equip you with the intellectual tools to analyse complex international issues from multiple angles and build confidence in your critical thinking.

Year 2 (Part-Time / Research & Electives)

In the second year, your learning deepens as you undertake Dissertation and Research Methods, where you will design, research and write a substantial research project on an international relations topic of your choice, supported by expert supervision and research-methods workshops. Alongside this, you select four option modules from a diverse list that may include subjects such as Controversies in United States Foreign Policies and Processes — exploring policy-making in a key global power — or Democratic Innovations: Participatory Spaces around the World, which assesses new democratic practices globally. Through these choices, you can tailor your studies to your interests and professional aspirations, whether in diplomacy, development or public policy.

Focus Areas (in a string)

International relations theory, global power and conflict, human rights and humanitarian policy, diplomacy and foreign policy processes, democratic innovations, research methods.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Develop advanced theoretical understanding of global politics, critically evaluate international systems and actors, conduct independent research and produce a substantive dissertation, communicate complex political analysis clearly and professionally.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time), you’ll build practical skills and real-world insight that go far beyond textbook learning. Throughout the course, opportunities such as visits to international institutions, interactive research training, and student-led activities strengthen your analytical, communication and professional capabilities. Based in central London, you also benefit from rich academic resources, active student societies and engagement with a dynamic policy-focused academic community, making your postgraduate experience both meaningful and applicable to global careers.

Here’s how experiential learning comes alive on this programme:

Organised Visits to International Bodies: As part of your study, Westminster has arranged visits to key international organisations in the past — such as NATO’s headquarters in Brussels, the European Commission and the European Parliament — so you see global security and diplomacy in action.
Research Methods & Dissertation Workshops: The Dissertation and Research Methods component gives you hands-on training in research design, data analysis and academic communication through structured workshops and supervision, preparing you for independent, professional-level research.
Interactive Seminars and Group Work: Teaching is delivered through seminars, discussions and collaborative projects that mirror professional analysis, debate and evaluation of international security issues.
Student Societies & Practical Activities: Activities such as the Westminster Model United Nations, Political Debating Society and International Community Project allow you to practise diplomacy, public speaking, leadership, and applied research with peers.
Library & Research Resources: You’ll have access to Westminster’s central London libraries and extensive digital research databases, with specialist politics and international relations collections supporting your coursework and dissertation work.
Career-Focused Events: While not specific to this MA, the University runs guest lectures, policy talks and networking events featuring academics and practitioners that bring global governance and security debates into the classroom.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Relations (Part-Time) at Westminster go on to pursue rewarding careers where their skills in analysis, policy understanding and global insight are highly valued — including roles such as Policy Analyst, International Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate and Research Consultant. Because this programme blends theoretical depth with practical exposure and is taught in central London, you’re supported to transition into professional environments in government, international organisations and NGOs:

University Career Support: Westminster’s Zone29 Careers & Enterprise helps you explore career pathways, connect with employers, access job and internship opportunities, and build essential professional skills such as CV writing and interview preparation.
Embedded Career Skills: The MA embeds career-relevant development throughout the course, ensuring you graduate with strong communication, research and analytical skills sought by employers in policy, international affairs and consultancy.
Employment Context: Data for Politics-related graduates from Westminster shows solid employment outcomes — with an average earnings figure of around £26,000 15 months after graduation and typical ranges of £23,000 – £30,000 — reflecting strong market relevance for postgraduate international relations skills.
Industry & Networking Opportunities: The University runs events such as “Explore Careers with International Organisations” that connect Politics and IR students with representatives from bodies like the UN Migration Agency (IOM), helping you build professional networks and understand routes into global careers.
Location Advantage & Graduate Outcomes: Westminster’s central London location gives you direct access to policymakers, embassies, NGOs and international institutions, while university-wide surveys show that career development support increases students’ confidence in achieving their professional goals.