MSc Politics and International Relations

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

SOAS University of London

Program Overview

The MSc Politics and International Relations at SOAS University of London helps you explore the big questions of global politics — from how governments make decisions to why societies behave differently in ever-changing regional and global contexts. You’ll study political dynamics with a unique focus on Asia, Africa and the Middle East, gaining analytical tools and perspectives that are especially valuable for careers in diplomacy, research, policy and international organisations.

The programme is designed to be both broad and flexible, giving you core grounding in political analysis and research methods, alongside the opportunity to specialise through pathways focused on regions or themes such as conflict, security, Central Asia, South Asia, or political thought.

Year 1 (Full-time, one year)
In your postgraduate year you’ll begin with core modules that introduce you to the foundations of political analysis and social science research methods, helping you think like a professional political scientist and prepare for in-depth work such as the dissertation. You’ll also explore major themes and issues in international relations, including political behaviour, human rights, governance and regional politics.

Alongside compulsory components, you’ll choose guided options and specialist pathways (such as Africa, Central Asia, Conflict, Rights and Justice, East Asia, International Politics and Security, Middle East, Political Thought, South Asia and Southeast Asia), letting you focus your studies on the parts of the world or the political questions that matter most to you.

You’ll build towards a 10,000-word dissertation, applying your research skills and subject expertise to a topic of your choice — a key step in demonstrating independent research ability and deep engagement with a specialised theme.

Focus areas: global politics, comparative political systems, international relations, regional politics of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, political theory and political economy.
Learning outcomes: strong analytical reasoning, research skills in political science, understanding of global political debates and the ability to apply theory to real-world issues.
Professional alignment (accreditation): This MSc isn’t professionally accredited but develops critical thinking, research and policy analysis skills that employers in diplomacy, policy, research and international organisations highly value.
Reputation (employability rankings): SOAS’s politics and international studies subjects are widely recognised for their global and regional expertise, supported by the university’s strong academic profile.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SOAS, the MSc in Politics and International Relations isn’t just about lectures — it’s about learning through research, debate and global engagement. The programme is shaped by SOAS’s distinctive regional expertise and multi-disciplinary approach, helping you connect political theory to real political environments and current global issues:

Core training in social science research methods, including qualitative and quantitative tools for independent inquiry and dissertation preparation.
Guided options across regions and themes, letting you tailor your learning with specialist modules that reflect your interests and career goals.
Independent dissertation project, supporting you to research deeply on a topic you’re passionate about — a major piece of work that showcases your analytical and research skills.
Discussion-led seminars and readings from non-Western perspectives, giving you practical experience interpreting diverse political systems and debates.
Access to SOAS Library and research collections, including extensive political science and area studies resources to support your postgraduate work.
Opportunities for study tours and engagement with practitioners, broadening your exposure to political environments beyond the classroom.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing this MSc gives you a strong foundation for careers where global political insight, analytical skills and regional expertise are essential. Whether you’re aiming for policy work, research, diplomacy or public affairs, this degree equips you with valuable tools to thrive:

Dedicated careers support at SOAS, including tailored professional development, CV guidance, interview preparation and employer outreach.
Skills that employers seek, such as critical thinking, policy analysis, research design, global awareness and effective communication.
Wide range of career paths, including roles in government and diplomacy, international organisations and NGOs, think tanks and advocacy groups, media analysis and policy research.
Strong preparation for doctoral study, with the programme aligned to research training guidelines and eligibility for ESRC funding if you plan to progress to a PhD.

Further Academic Progression:
If academic research excites you, this MSc provides a solid stepping stone to PhD or doctoral research in political science, international relations or area studies, supported by strong methodological training and dissertation experience.