Taught Masters - MA in International Studies

The MA in International Studies (IS) introduces you to the key debates in the discipline of International Relations and to offer an opportunity to reflect on issues of critical importance in today's world. The core module is theory-intensive and students applying for this course should be aware of this. International Studies is not merely a discipline that seeks to describe world politics; this is something that can after all be gleaned from reading newspapers. Rather, IS seeks above all to explain and understand world politics in a range of theoretical ways. Indeed much of the best work in the discipline comprises theoretically informed analysis of world events.

The course will provide you with in-depth knowledge of contemporary International Relations, together with a range of academic and transferable skills. These include an appreciation of the associated literature and a practical knowledge of regional problems and challenges to global stability. You may specialise in a large range of options. We have particular strength in issues of global security, global governance, international law, development and globalization, human rights, nationalism and an array of experts teaching on specific regions such as Africa, Europe and Russia. We also run an International Political Economy course that complements much of what we offer in the IS course.

Course Structure

All students must undertake 180 credits of modules as follows:

• One core module, POL6970 Theory and Practice of International Relations;
• Option modules to the value of 90 credits (all modules are subject to availability);
• POL6690 Dissertation for MA in International Studies (60 credits).