MA International Relations and Diplomacy

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Reading

Program Overview

The MA International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of Reading gives you a deep understanding of how global politics, diplomacy and international institutions operate — blending theory with real-world insight so you can think critically about global issues and responses. It suits students from a wide range of academic backgrounds who want to build careers in diplomacy, government, policy, international organisations or global NGOs while gaining practical analytical and research skills.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 (or Part-Time Stage 1)

In the first year, you start with core modules such as International Relations Theory, which introduces the major theoretical approaches to understanding how states and global actors interact, and Contemporary Diplomacy, which examines diplomatic practices and challenges in today’s world. These foundational units help you develop critical thinking and apply theory to real international developments. Through group discussions, simulations and presentations, you will begin strengthening your academic skills while learning directly from academics and guest
speakers — including former diplomats and policy practitioners.

Year 2 (or Part-Time Stage 2 + Dissertation)

In the second stage, you continue in-depth study through a combination of optional modules (chosen from a wide range of topics in international relations and politics, allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests) and advanced academic training. You also complete an independent dissertation, where you apply your research training and theoretical knowledge to a topic of your choice in international relations or diplomacy — supported by methods training and supervision. This independent project is a key exercise that enhances your analytical, research and writing skills for future careers or further study.

Focus areas:

“International Relations Theory; Contemporary Diplomacy; Research Methods; Optional Areas in Politics & IR; International Institutions; Global Policy Analysis.”

Learning outcomes:

“You will learn to critically analyse major international relations theories, understand diplomatic processes and global political dynamics, conduct independent research, and communicate insights effectively — preparing you for careers across public policy, diplomacy, international organisations and lead roles in global affairs.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):

This MA is delivered by the Department of Politics and International Relations at Reading, whose research outputs in Politics & International Studies are among the strongest in the UK — with 97 % rated world leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Relations and Diplomacy at Reading, your learning goes well beyond lectures — you’re given regular opportunities to build practical skills that matter in careers like diplomacy, policy analysis, international organisations, and global affairs. The programme combines small-group teaching, real-world policy exercises, guest speakers (including former ambassadorship and political leaders), and optional work placements, so you get exposure to professional practice as well as academic knowledge. These structured experiences help you develop research capabilities, critical thinking, communication skills, and professional confidence before you graduate.

Here’s how the experiential side of the MA works in practice:

Work Placement Project: You can choose to undertake a work placement with an external organisation focused on international relations or international security — gaining hands-on experience working in a professional environment and developing independent problem-solving skills that feed directly into your final assessment.
Practical Policy-oriented Exercises: Many modules include real-world simulations and policy tasks such as writing policy briefs, scenario analysis, mock diplomatic exercises and other applied work that mirror professional tasks in government or international organisations.
Guest Speaker Events: You benefit from regular guest lectures by influential policy makers, diplomats, and global experts (including former ambassadors and UK political figures), offering insight into real careers and opportunities to ask questions that deepen your understanding of practice.
Interactive Teaching & Group Work: Small-group seminars and interactive discussions are at the core of this programme, helping you refine your communication skills, collaborate with peers, and engage dynamically with global political debates.
Research Methods & Dissertation Training: You receive structured training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, enabling you to conduct independent research — a valuable professional skill for careers in policy, analysis, diplomacy, lobbying, think tanks or further academic study.
Access to University-wide Resources: As a Reading student you also benefit from the university library and research facilities for politics, international studies and social sciences — essential tools for rigorous research and professional project work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this MA often find themselves well-placed for roles in government service, policy analysis, diplomatic work and international organisations, because the programme equips you with analytical skills, practical insights from guest speakers and optional work placements that employers value. With strong career support and excellent graduate-outcome figures, many students move into meaningful positions in civil service fast-track schemes and national departments, or apply their skills successfully in international security, diplomacy and humanitarian contexts:

• Dedicated career support services: The University of Reading Careers Service offers tailored guidance, workshops, one-to-one consultations, and ongoing support (including after graduation) to help you prepare for jobs or internships in the UK and internationally. You can book appointments with Career Support Consultants who help with CVs, interviews and job searches across sectors.

• Strong graduate outcomes: According to official HESA Graduate Outcomes data, 95.2 % of Politics and International Relations graduates from Reading were in work or further study within 15 months of graduating — showing robust transition to employment or advance study.

• Sample destinations in real world organisations: Alumni of this programme and related Politics & IR courses have gone on to organisations such as the Office for National Statistics, Civil Service Fast Stream, Department for International Trade, Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and the Cabinet Office — demonstrating recruitment by major UK public-sector employers.

• Industry & policy linkages: The Department of Politics and International Relations regularly invites guest speakers including former ambassadors, political leaders and senior policy figures, giving you exposure to real-world diplomatic practice and professional networking opportunities.

• Academic research strength: With 97 % of research outputs rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in the latest REF 2021 (Politics & International Studies), the degree’s strong research environment adds credibility and long-term value to your qualifications when applying for competitive roles or postgraduate research.