MSc International Relations

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The MSc International Relations at the University of Strathclyde equips you with deep insight into how global politics works today — from state interaction and international organisations to conflict, cooperation and global governance. This programme suits students who are curious about the forces shaping the international system and want to build research skills, critical analysis and methodological expertise for careers in policy, diplomacy, international organisations, research and beyond.

Curriculum structure

Stage One – Foundations and Core Learning

In the early part of your degree you’ll build a strong conceptual base with core classes such as Debating International Relations Theory and Contemporary International Relations, where you’ll explore key theoretical frameworks and major global issues like conflict, power and cooperation. You’ll also take International Institutions & Regimes, which examines how entities like the UN, EU and other actors shape world politics, and Principles of Research Design, equipping you with fundamental skills in research planning and methodology. These core units help you think rigorously about global politics and prepare you for advanced study.

Stage Two – Specialisation & Optional Modules

Alongside core classes, you’ll choose optional modules that reflect your interests and career goals — such as Feminism & International Relations, European Governance, Contemporary Security Challenges & Responses, International Political Economy, and methods classes like Quantitative Methods. These options deepen your understanding of specific issues while strengthening your analytical, research and interpretive abilities. Across the year you’ll engage with both qualitative and quantitative approaches so you can confidently analyse complex political phenomena.

Dissertation

Over the summer you will complete an independent dissertation, supervised by expert faculty, applying your theoretical knowledge and research training to a topic of your choice — from peace processes to international political economy, security studies or global governance. The dissertation is your chance to demonstrate your ability to carry out sustained research and communicate sophisticated analysis.

Focus areas:

“International relations theory, global governance, conflict and cooperation, international institutions, research design, specialised electives in security, political economy and regional governance.”

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc International Relations at the University of Strathclyde goes beyond classroom theory to give you real, practical skills that matter for careers in policy, research, diplomacy, NGOs and international organisations. You’ll benefit from rigorous research training, opportunities to pursue work-based dissertation projects, access to career support tools and a range of resources designed to help you apply what you learn in real-world contexts, so you graduate confident and ready to take on global challenges.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into your studies and the wider student experience:

Work-based dissertation projects: You can apply to undertake a client-based or work-linked project as part of your dissertation research, working with host organisations — such as local councils, governmental bodies or NGOs — to combine academic study with professional research experience.
Research methods with practical application: Core units like Principles of Research Design include laboratory sessions and intensive methodological training in both qualitative and quantitative approaches, giving you hands-on experience with data analysis and research tools used by professional analysts.
Careers Service support for placements and internships: The Strathclyde Careers and Employability Service offers support in finding internships, placements and work experience, including access to employer contacts and opportunities to work with SMEs and public sector partners.
Global internships database: You’ll have free access to international jobs and internships platforms — such as GoinGlobal — through the Careers Service, helping you identify professional experiences anywhere in the world.
Collaborative learning and group research: Although the MSc is research-intensive, optional modules and seminars often include group analytical exercises and presentations, preparing you for team-based project work in professional settings.
University libraries and online research tools: As a Strathclyde student, you benefit from the University library’s extensive collections and research databases, which are essential for conducting independent research and literature reviews for advanced academic and professional work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc International Relations at Strathclyde emerge equipped with strong analytical, research and communication skills that prepare them for careers such as policy analyst, international relations consultant, diplomatic services officer or research specialist in government, NGOs or think tanks. Because the programme combines rigorous academic training with practical support from Careers & Employability services, many graduates transition successfully into professional roles or further study:

• University careers support: The Careers & Employability Service at Strathclyde offers tailored guidance throughout your studies and beyond, including help with identifying career paths, crafting compelling job applications, preparing for interviews and gaining work experience or internships.

• Internships & global opportunities: Students can access international internship and placement databases (e.g., GoinGlobal and Eurodesk Opportunity Finder) through the Careers Service, giving you exposure to roles and traineeships relevant to international relations and global policy fields.

• Strong graduate prospects: University-wide data shows that around 92 % of Strathclyde graduates secure employment or pursue further study within six months of graduation, with typical earnings for graduates in related fields often around £27,000–£30,000 at early-career stages — a useful benchmark for postgraduate prospects.

• Networking & professional events: Through subject-related seminars, employer guest talks and networking events, you build contacts with organisations and professionals active in policy, international affairs and research — helping you bridge academic study and career pathways.

• Recognised learning environment: Strathclyde’s emphasis on “useful learning” and practical skills development is widely recognised, helping graduates stand out in competitive job markets where employers value adaptability and analytical competence.