MA in International Relations

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Durham University

Program Overview

Program Overview
Immerse yourself in debates about international politics, international organisations, and how they influence relationships between nations. The MA in International Relations at Durham equips you with the skills to challenge conventional thinking and analyse your own views about some of the most pressing global challenges, with core modules and flexible options culminating in a dissertation and strong prospects in international organisations, politics, the civil service, journalism, teaching, business, and research.

 

Curriculum structure
Year 1 centers on core modules—International Relations Theory and International Organisations—paired with a substantial Dissertation (10,000 words) and optional modules such as Contemporary Political Philosophy, The Politics of Global Europe, Ideologies and Political Thought, International Politics of the Middle East, and The Politics of East Asia to tailor your study.

Focus areas
Learning outcomes include the ability to critically evaluate concepts, theories, and paradigms in international relations; apply empirical and theoretical methods to real-world developments; design and conduct independent research; and communicate arguments clearly and persuasively.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential Learning
Learning is largely delivered via lectures and smaller seminar group teaching, with each module built around about 300 hours of learning and a minimum of 20 hours of class contact. The dissertation is a central element of the course, with a supervisor appointed to guide your independent research, and learning is enriched by regular seminars and lectures that bring contemporary issues in political and international studies into the classroom.
Experiential learning opportunities include:
- Group projects
- Dissertation with supervisor
- Regular seminars and lectures
- Research centres and institutes
- The Al Qasimi Building and the School of Government and International Affairs facilities
- Access to the vibrant postgraduate learning community and ongoing research by experts

Progression & Future Opportunities

Progression & Future Opportunities
Graduates go on to pursue careers in international organisations, politics, the civil service, journalism, teaching, business, and research. The University supports employability through its careers programme, employment-related events, and a global alumni network. Former postgraduates have joined employers including the House of Commons, Clifford Chance, Accenture, British Airways, Ernst & Young, British Telecom, Goldman Sachs, PwC, the Royal Navy, Channel 4, HSBC, Teach First, BlackRock, and the Audit Commission. Graduation outcomes include roles in local and national government, diplomacy, publishing, teaching, academia, and the armed forces, among others.

Program Key Stats

£28750
£15000
£ 60
Rolling


No
No

Eligibility Criteria


6.5
100

Career Options

  • Diplomat
  • Policy Analyst
  • Civil Servant
  • Journalist
  • Lecturer
  • Researcher

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts