International Relations MA

Overview

Our International Relations MA course is especially designed for those with an interdisciplinary background who wish to fully comprehend core issues and approaches within International Relations post 9/11.

Course Details

In today’s society the emergence of transnational economies, increased global communications, the movement of people, cultures and ideas are reshaping the notions of citizenship and community. With this the increase in sectarian violence and new fundamentalisms are challenging security on an individual to international level. With this in mind, there has never been a more interesting time or a greater need for the study of International Relations. The subject gives you a thorough and sensitive knowledge of interests, ethnicities and cultures allowing you to understand the global condition.

International Relations is a vital and dynamic subject that offers you an interdisciplinary exploration of human interaction. It is not so much a single discipline; rather it is a study of a particular type of behaviour whose comprehension requires the insight and methods of a number of disciplines. Although your MA is set within a strong political and sociological framework, the course is enhanced through the support of Law, History, and American Studies.

Studying International Relations provides you with an opportunity to engage with and adapt to the changing international, national and regional realities post 9/11. The security implications of the events of 9/11, and the impact of global developments on everyday lives, are present in the public mind as never before. Current topical issues are explored through this course including:

• nuclear proliferation
• international crime and terrorism
• Israel and Palestine
• western intervention and civil war in Iraq

International Relations develops your critical awareness, conceptual understanding, research methods and the way that you apply your knowledge. Your MA will provide you with an appropriate set of intellectual skills to enable you to come to more informed and effective conclusions in an ‘ever-changing’ global context.

It is our aim to complement your existing knowledge and build upon your first degree, giving you transferable capabilities and a specialist area of knowledge. This course provides you with a unique opportunity for you to study at a very high level for a postgraduate degree with global relevance, regardless of whether you have studied this subject previously or not.

The MA offers an exciting opportunity for graduates to develop their understanding of international affairs both theoretically and through your own or others’ experience.

How will I learn?

Our International Relations MA is awarded after completion of a mixture of taught courses and a programme of research. The MA lasts at least one year if taken full-time, two years part-time. We also offer advanced short courses that lead to Postgraduate Certificates and Postgraduate Diplomas in International Relations.

How will I be assessed?

You will study through a range of coursework and your dissertation. Assessment methods on this course include essays, literature reviews, presentations and research reports. Depending on your option choices, it is possible to study this course without examinations. All coursework reflects the high level of intellectual demands associated with a taught MA and has the aim of developing a range of oral and written skills. You need to be prepared to commit yourself to substantial reading and thought for successful completion of an MA.