MA International Relations and Security (Part Time)

2 Years Part Time Masters Program

University of Westminster

Program Overview

The MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) at the University of Westminster offers you a deep and practical understanding of how contemporary global security challenges — from terrorism and humanitarian intervention to state conflict and international law — shape world politics. It’s perfect for working professionals and graduates who want to blend academic study with career development, as you explore both theoretical foundations and real-world security issues in a flexible, part-time format.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Part-Time / Core Foundations)

In your first year, you’ll lay a strong foundation in international relations and security scholarship while fitting study around your existing commitments. Core modules include Contemporary Controversies in International Security: Intervention, Terrorism and Self-Defence, where you explore how security concerns have evolved in a post-Cold War world, and Theories of International Security, which develops your understanding of the key frameworks used to interpret the causes and responses to global insecurity. Through these units, you learn to critically assess how global power dynamics, conflict and law interact and influence policy responses across different regions.

Year 2 (Part-Time / Research & Application)

In your second year, the emphasis shifts toward independent research and specialist analysis. You complete the Dissertation and Research Methods component, which guides you step-by-step through designing, researching and writing a substantial research project on a topic of your own choice. Alongside this, your studies often include thematic or optional units drawn from the wider Politics and International Relations portfolio (e.g., politics of war and peace, international political economy or governance) that help tailor your expertise to your career interests and research ambitions.

Focus Areas (in a string)

Contemporary security issues, international relations theory, intervention and terrorism, global governance, analytical frameworks in security studies, research methodology.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Apply advanced security theory, critically analyse major security challenges, conduct independent research, integrate historical and theoretical insights into policy-relevant interpretations, communicate substantive findings in written and oral formats.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

This MA is delivered by Westminster’s School of Social Sciences, where research-active staff with expertise in international relations and security guide your learning — helping you develop skills valued in policy, government, international organisations and NGO sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) at the University of Westminster, students gain real-world insight and practical exposure that bring theory to life and deepen professional skills. You won’t just read about global security challenges — you’ll see them in context through organised international visits, research-led training and active engagement with institutions and practitioners in the field. Based in central London, you also benefit from easy access to world-class libraries, policy events, seminar series and networking opportunities that enhance both your learning and future employability.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into this programme and department:

International Visits to Policy Hubs: Students in the International Relations and Security MA have taken part in multi-day educational trips to Brussels, meeting policymakers and visiting institutions such as the European Commission, the European Parliament and NATO Headquarters, allowing you to witness international security and diplomatic processes first-hand.
Research Methods & Dissertation Workshops: The Dissertation and Research Methods component includes structured training sessions, individual supervision and colloquium seminars that help you develop practical research design, data analysis, and academic communication skills essential for policy, research and consultancy work.
Interactive Seminars & Group Engagement: Teaching across Politics and International Relations is delivered through seminars, debates, discussions and collaborative projects where you’ll actively engage with current security and governance issues alongside peers from diverse backgrounds.
Student-Led Societies & Field Activities: Westminster’s Model United Nations, Political Debating Society and International Community Project offer platforms to practise diplomacy simulations, public speaking, leadership and applied research in real or simulated governance scenarios.
London-Centric Policy Events: Studying in London gives you access to a vibrant calendar of policy talks, public lectures and conferences hosted by government bodies, NGOs, think tanks and international organisations — enhancing your practical understanding of global security debates beyond the classroom.
Library & Digital Resources: Westminster’s libraries provide comprehensive collections of political science and international relations resources, including specialist databases and journals, supporting your assignment work and dissertation research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Relations and Security (Part-Time) at Westminster go on to meaningful roles where their global insight, analytical skills and real-world understanding of security and politics are actively valued — including Policy Analyst, Diplomatic Officer, Civil Service Specialist and International Affairs Consultant. Because this programme blends rigorous academic training with practical exposure and career support in central London, you’re well-positioned to step into sectors where critical thinking and international awareness make a real difference:

University Careers & Employability Support: Westminster’s Zone29 Careers & Enterprise offers tailored career guidance, mentoring, employer events, skills development workshops and internship support, helping you refine your CV, prepare for interviews and explore opportunities in government, NGOs, international organisations and the private sector.
Embedded Career Development: Career development skills are built into Westminster’s Politics and International Relations courses — ensuring you graduate not only with strong subject knowledge but also communication, research and professional competencies that employers seek in policy, security and global roles.
Employment Paths & Networking: Westminster offers career events such as “Explore Careers with International Organisations,” where you can learn about internship and graduate opportunities with agencies like the UN Migration Agency (IOM) and connect with potential employers — a direct gateway into international careers.
Graduate Earnings & Outcomes (Contextual): Data for Politics-related courses at Westminster indicates strong graduate engagement with the labour market: for similar Politics and International Relations pathways, around 85 % of graduates were in work or study 15 months after graduation, with average earnings around £26,000 and a typical range between £23,000 and £30,000 — reflecting positive employment prospects in relevant sectors.
Strategic Location & Industry Access: Being in London — a global hub for diplomacy, government bodies and international NGOs — gives you privileged access to policy communities, networking opportunities and events that can accelerate your future career.