MA International Relations and Security

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Westminster

Program Overview

The MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) at the University of Westminster helps you understand the evolving nature of global security, from the legacy of the Cold War to contemporary threats such as terrorism, humanitarian intervention and geopolitical conflict. It suits students who want to combine academic study with professional life, equipping you with analytical insights into international security theory, practice and global political dynamics while you continue working or gaining experience.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Part-Time / Core Foundations)

In your first year, you’ll build essential conceptual and analytical foundations that underpin the study of international security. Core modules such as Contemporary Controversies in International Security: Intervention, Terrorism and Self-Defence introduce you to how security dilemmas have evolved since the Cold War, exploring key issues like intra-state conflict, terrorism and humanitarian intervention within broader political frameworks. You’ll also take Theories of International Security, which deepens your grasp of the theoretical debates shaping security studies today, preparing you for more specialised analysis in Year 2.

Year 2 (Part-Time / Specialisation & Dissertation)

In your second year, you’ll apply your growing understanding through more advanced engagement and independent research. You’ll complete Dissertation and Research Methods, where you receive structured guidance on designing and executing a substantive research project on a topic of your choice — ensuring you graduate with demonstrable professional-level research skills. Alongside this, optional or related modules allow you to tailor your focus toward areas such as foreign policy analysis, conflict dynamics or global governance through contextual study.

Focus Areas (in a string)

International security theory, contemporary security controversies, intervention and terrorism, research methods, global political order, conflict analysis.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Evaluate major theoretical frameworks in security studies, analyse contemporary security challenges, conduct independent research and produce a detailed dissertation, interpret security issues within broader international relations contexts.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

The MA is delivered through the School of Social Sciences at Westminster, combining rigorous academic training with real-world analytical skills that align with careers in policy analysis, security research, government advisory roles, and international organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) at Westminster, you’ll build practical skills and real-world insight that elevate your understanding of global security well beyond textbooks. The course actively connects you with living political environments — incorporating field-relevant experiences such as visits to international institutions and hands-on research-led work that mirror what professionals do in policy, diplomacy and security roles. Being based in central London also places you close to world-leading think tanks, embassies and government organisations that enrich your learning and networking opportunities.

Here’s how the programme brings experiential learning to life:

Visits to International Organisations: The course organises study visits abroad to key centres of global governance — past groups have visited NATO headquarters in Brussels, the European Commission and the European Parliament, giving you direct exposure to how international security and policy are practised.
Supervised Research Methods & Dissertation Workshops: The Dissertation and Research Methods module includes structured research training, workshops and one-to-one supervision, giving you practical skills in data collection, analysis and communicating complex security research.
Interactive Seminars & Group Projects: Teaching is delivered through interactive seminars and discussions, where you critically engage with real world issues such as terrorism, humanitarian intervention and security strategy — often in group settings that simulate professional policymaking.
Central London Resources: Taking full advantage of Westminster’s Regent Street campus location means easy access to libraries with specialist IR and security collections, policy events, public lectures and networking opportunities with visiting practitioners in international affairs.
Engagement with Policy Experts: Students often participate in events with experts and policymakers from EU institutions and international civil society, enhancing both your learning and professional connections in the security and international relations field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) regularly go on to meaningful roles where their global insight and analytical skills are highly valued, such as Policy Analyst, Security and Risk Consultant, Diplomatic Officer and International Affairs Specialist — reflecting the programme’s strong alignment with real-world work in government, NGOs and international organisations. Because this degree combines advanced theoretical understanding with practical research training and professional outreach, you’ll be well-prepared to step confidently into impactful roles that address complex political and security challenges:

University Careers Support: Westminster’s Zone29 Careers & Enterprise offers tailored career guidance, mentoring, job and placement opportunities, work experience support and professional development resources — all designed to help you reflect your learning in workplace readiness and to connect with employers across sectors.
Graduate Outcomes & Earnings Context: Politics-related graduates at Westminster have shown strong outcomes, with around 85 % in employment or further study 15 months after graduation, and average earnings of approx. £26,000 at that point — demonstrating clear career traction for social sciences and international relations pathways.
University–Industry Engagement: Westminster organises employability events such as Explore Careers with International Organisations, including sessions with bodies like the UN Migration Agency (IOM) that highlight internship and graduate career pathways within global institutions.
Embedded Career Skills: Career development skills are built into programmes across Politics and International Relations at Westminster, helping you develop communication, analytical and research skills sought after in policy, security and diplomatic professions.
Location Advantage & Graduate Outcomes: Being based in central London gives you unrivalled access to policymakers, institutions and events that can directly influence your career prospects; Westminster’s diverse graduate community and professional networks enhance your ability to take up opportunities locally and internationally.