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MSc International Relations

University of Bristol

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University of Bristol

Course options

4 options available

  • Qualification

    MSc - Master of Science

  • Location

    Clifton Campus

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    21-SEP-26

  • Duration

    1 Year

Course summary

Engage in a comprehensive exploration of contemporary global politics, pairing rigorous theoretical training with detailed case analysis. From your first seminar, you will be encouraged to test the leading schools of thought in international relations against real-world examples, examining how ideas and evidence interact to shape policy and scholarly debate. Global dynamics today flow seamlessly across borders – trade disputes reverberate through domestic economies, financial shocks leap between markets, and climate crises, strategic rivalries, cultural narratives and ethical dilemmas cross continents in real time. This programme equips you to trace these interconnections and to understand how the 'domestic' and the 'international' constantly reshape one another. Study a wide body of literature and the field’s key debates, and refine the analytical skills needed to develop and defend your own perspectives on world affairs. Optional units enable you to tailor the degree to your interests, with opportunities to investigate culture and capitalism, climate change governance, gender and security, social movements, the digital economy, trade and finance, and broader questions of global transformation. Apply theoretical insights to specific issues in each unit, deepening both subject knowledge and methodological competence. Be challenged and inspired by internationally renowned scholars whose research addresses many of the most pressing challenges of the twenty-first century. Join an intellectually vibrant, inclusive learning environment where respectful debate and critical inquiry thrive. Become part of a diverse postgraduate community committed to understanding global politics and developing the tools needed to drive positive change. Benefit from the opportunity to focus on the issues you care about and make your own contribution to human knowledge through your dissertation. Guided by a dedicated supervisor, you will focus on the topic that matters most to you, producing original research that demonstrates your ability to gather evidence, analyse complexity, and communicate findings clearly. Gain a thorough grasp of the major theoretical traditions in the field and a nuanced appreciation of the forces reshaping international politics. Graduate with advanced research, writing and presentation skills valued in diplomacy, policy analysis, journalism, non-governmental advocacy and doctoral study, preparing you to engage critically and constructively with the challenges of an interconnected world.

Application deadline

10/09/2026

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 30,400per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Bristol

University of Bristol

University of Bristol

  • University League Table

    17th

  • Campus address

    Main Site, Beacon House, Queens Road, Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1QU, United Kingdom

VIEW PROFILE
Bristol is one of the UK's leading research universities, with a curriculum informed by the latest research and degrees taught by expert academics.
Over a quarter of Bristol students are international, with students from more than 150 countries helping to create a friendly and diverse community.
The Careers Service offers advice, events and resources for international students during their studies and for up to three years after graduation.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    Politics

    10th out of 77

  • Entry standards

    / Max 197
    161 82%

    14th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    76.0 76%

    16th

    11

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.09 77%

    56th

    13

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