This pre-doctoral International Relations MRes is taught in conjunction with the London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (LISS DTP) and is an approved pathway for ESRC 1+3 PhD studentship funding. It provides a sophisticated theoretical and applied understanding of international relations and develops advanced qualitative and quantitative research skills to help you think, talk and write critically about contemporary issues, while laying a firm foundation for further study.
Curriculum structure: Year 1 you will study three compulsory taught modules and one elective, establishing your methodological and theoretical foundations in IR. The compulsory core modules are designed to give you a command of key concepts and theoretical traditions in International Relations, advance your research capabilities, and equip you with quantitative skills using R, alongside an elective module chosen to align with your interests. In Year 2 you will undertake a 12,000-word Masters' Dissertation under supervision, applying your learning to an independent research project that culminates in a substantial piece of original work and further develops your expertise for doctoral study or a research-centric career.
You’ll gain practical, research-focused skills through an interdisciplinary approach that combines lectures, interactive seminars, and engagement with policymakers and practitioners. You’ll have opportunities to network with guest speakers and develop communication and presentation skills through lively group discussions and collaborative activities, all supported by a dedicated learning environment.
Transition to practical details:
- QUBE: a state-of-the-art media suite with editing software
- Graduate Centre: purpose-built study spaces and a rooftop common room
- Think Pod: an interactive space with presentation, recording and video conferencing facilities
- QMplus: Queen Mary’s virtual learning environment for course materials and seminars
- Access to major libraries: British Library, Senate House Library and Copac
- Mile End Institute: a policy hub that connects policymakers, academics and local communities
- Facilities for collaboration, guest talks, and research discussions that complement your coursework
Graduates will leave with advanced qualitative and quantitative research skills that can lead to research-related roles or further study, including progression to MPhil/PhD through ESRC funding pathways. The program actively supports career development through university services and industry-facing opportunities, helping you connect with local, national and international partners.
- University services to help you employ: Queen Mary Careers and Enterprise provides tailored support, from one-to-one academic guidance and tailored workshops to guest speakers on careers in public affairs and working in parliament.
- University industry partnerships and opportunities: The program’s ESRC 1+3 PhD pathway, in partnership with LISS DTP, and engagement through the Mile End Institute offer strong links with policymakers, researchers and practitioners and opportunities to collaborate with partners locally and internationally.
- Graduation outcomes: The degree is designed as a springboard toward doctoral study or research-oriented roles, aligning with preparation for advanced research careers.
Further Academic Progression: The MRes is positioned as a stepping-stone to ESRC 1+3 PhD funding and doctoral study in international relations, enabling you to continue your research trajectory after graduation.



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