International Relations MA

Durham University

Immerse yourself in debates about international politics, international organisations and how they influence relationships between nations. The MA in International Relations will equip you with the skills to challenge conventional thinking and analyse your own views about some of the most pressing global challenges.

The course covers both theoretical and empirical aspects of international relations, examining the history of the field, as well as in-depth study of the major international organisations that contribute to the global order. As the course progresses you will gain an understanding of how the international community has developed, and the forces that shape its development. 

Focusing on contemporary issues such as globalisation, foreign policy, humanitarian intervention, and the role of international organisations, you will develop the knowledge and skills to critically review developments in the theory and practice of international relations. You will learn to evaluate concepts, theories, and paradigms, drawing lessons from real-world studies informed by quantitative and qualitative investigations.

Your learning will be informed by a wealth of ongoing research by experts working at the forefront of their field. Core modules in International Relations Theory and International Organisations form the foundation of the course. The remaining modules can be tailored to suit your interests, with options spanning topics from Designing Political Inquiry to Global Governance. The optional modules also give you an opportunity to focus on the politics of a specific region of the world in greater depth or study a language. These interests can be further developed through the researching and writing of the dissertation.

On completion, graduates are well placed to pursue careers in international organisations, politics, and the civil service. Others move into the wider fields of journalism, teaching, business, and research.