MA International Relations and Democratic Politics (Part Time)

2 Years Part Time Masters Program

University of Westminster

Program Overview

Part-Time (2 Years / 24 Months)

On the MA International Relations and Democratic Politics (Part-Time) at the University of Westminster, your learning is thoughtfully paced over two years so you can blend study with work or other commitments while still deepening your understanding of global politics and democratic systems. In Year 1, you’ll begin with core modules such as Democratic Politics: Key Debates and Issues — which introduces you to the major conceptual and theoretical frameworks of democratic thought — and The Politics of Global Complexity: Rethinking Governance, Power and Agency — where you’ll analyse how global power dynamics and governance interact in a rapidly changing international context. Throughout this first year you’ll also take two option modules (one each semester) from a wide range that includes Diplomacy in Action: Evolution, Adaptation, Innovation, Global Change: Toward a New Non-Western Order? and Gender, Sexuality and International Relations, giving you both depth and choice through comparative political study.

Year 2 (Advanced Study & Dissertation)

In Year 2, your focus shifts toward independent research and specialised topics. The substantial Dissertation and Research Methods core module supports you in designing, researching and writing a major research project of your own — a scholarly piece that draws on both theoretical and empirical insights you’ve developed across the programme. Alongside this, you’ll again take two option modules (one per semester), which could include choices like Global Political Economy of Development, Governance of the European Union or Global Politics of Energy and Climate Change, allowing you to tailor your studies to your professional interests or future career goals.

Focus Areas (in a string)

Democratic theory, governance and power, global political dynamics, foreign policy and diplomacy, political economy, gender and international relations, EU governance, energy and climate politics.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Develop advanced critical understanding of democratic and international relations theory, apply analytical frameworks to global and domestic political issues, conduct independent research and design a major dissertation, evaluate policy and governance in comparative contexts.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

While this master’s does not carry a specific professional accreditation like planning programmes do, it is designed and delivered by the University of Westminster’s School of Social Sciences, giving you rigorous academic training and skills directly relevant to careers in policy analysis, diplomacy, governance, international NGOs and research environments.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Relations and Democratic Politics (Part-Time) at Westminster, your studies are designed to build real-world political insight and practical research skills that extend far beyond lecture halls. You’ll engage with live debates, policy discussions and research activities that mirror professional environments, and benefit from being in central London, where international institutions, embassies and NGOs are part of your learning landscape. Students also take part in visits to international organisations such as the European Parliament, European Commission and NATO’s headquarters in Brussels, giving you first-hand exposure to governance and diplomatic practices that you’ll discuss in class and reflect on in your assignments.

Here’s how practical learning is built into this programme:

International Organisation Visits: As part of your course, there are organised visits to international bodies like NATO HQ, the European Commission and the European Parliament — enriching your understanding of global governance and democracy in practice.
Interactive Seminars & Collaborative Projects: Modules are delivered through seminars, debates and workshops that encourage active participation, group discussion and collaborative analysis — giving you experience working with peers to explore political issues.
Research-Led Learning: Your Dissertation and Research Methods work means you’ll gain hands-on experience designing, conducting and presenting a research project on a topic of personal and professional relevance.
Student-Led Societies & Debates: Opportunities like the Political Debating Society and Westminster Model United Nations help you build skills in public speaking, diplomacy simulations and negotiation — practical experiences that mirror careers in policy, international relations, and governance.
Community Engagement Projects: Through initiatives such as the International Community Project, you can engage with London’s diverse communities to develop applied research, project management and social analysis skills relevant to policy and public affairs.
Library & Digital Research Tools: Studying in London means rich academic resources at your fingertips — the University’s libraries provide access to specialist political science collections, journals and digital databases essential for coursework and dissertation writing.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Relations and Democratic Politics (Part-Time) go on to meaningful roles that shape public policy, international engagement and democratic practice — including Policy Analyst, Diplomatic Officer, Civil Service Professional and Advocate or Researcher in NGOs or international organisations. Because this programme blends rigorous academic insight with practical skills and professional exposure, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue roles where critical thinking, political awareness and research experience matter most:

Here’s how Westminster supports your career journey and what outcomes you can expect:

Careers & Employability Support: Westminster’s Zone29 Careers & Enterprise is a dedicated hub connecting you with employers, consultancy opportunities, mentoring, tailored career guidance, workshops and networking events that help you prepare for your professional future. Zone29 also supports internships, placements and real-world experience to enhance your CV and employability.
Employment Stats & Salary Context: Politics and international relations graduates from Westminster and related courses have strong post-study outcomes, with approx. £26,000 average earnings 15 months after graduation and typical ranges from £23,000 to £30,000 — reflecting strong employability in fields that value analytical and research skills.
University–Industry Partnerships & Professional Connections: Westminster’s central London location and active events calendar — including Explore Careers with International Organisations sessions that feature bodies like the UN Migration Agency (IOM) and global policy players — gives you opportunities to connect with the kind of organisations where IR skills are in demand.
Long-Term Value & Skills Embedding: Career development skills are embedded throughout courses in Politics and International Relations at Westminster, ensuring you graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also with communication, policy analysis, research and critical reasoning skills that employers seek globally.
Graduation Outcomes: MA graduates go on to work across sectors including government, international organisations, NGOs, consultancy, research institutes and think tanks — reflecting the broad applicability of your degree in careers where shaping ideas and policy matters.