The London School of Economics and Political Science
Theory and History of International Relations MSc
The London School of Economics and Political Science

Course modalities offered

Key Course Facts

Course Description

The MSc Theory and History of International Relations is a specialist, multidisciplinary degree taught by the Department of International History and the Department of International Relations – both have a global reputation for their high quality research and dynamic contributions to the development of their respective disciplines.

This unique joint degree programme has been designed for students who want to understand and appreciate both the theoretical and the empirical approach to the study of international relations. The curriculum offers students the opportunity to take courses tailored to their specific interests, in terms of method, time-frame and geographical scope. The choices available are wide and deep since this is a joint degree with the International Relations Department and the International History Department (where it is based).

The curriculum combines an exceptional level of analytical training in theory, balanced with the discipline of historical based case-studies and advanced research. You will be taught by leading experts in both disciplines. You can choose one broad course from each Department. For your third option you can chose one of many highly specialised courses offered by either Department. You will then complete your degree by doing a history dissertation, which will give you the chance to conduct your own empirical research on a detailed historical case study.

This well-balanced and bespoke course, allows you to develop your intellectual understanding and ability to analyse a wide range of international relations’ history, organisations, trends and challenges including world wars, East-West conflict, North-South relations, European integration, globalisation, diplomacy and peace-building.

A hugely flexible joint degree, it can be tailored to provide you with a more advanced understanding of international relations and theory, or it offers an exceptional foundation if you are making the transition from related disciplines such as political science, modern languages, economics, sociology, law or journalism. You will have the opportunity to study alongside students drawn from a wide range of disciplines. In addition, you will benefit from being in the wider LSE learning environment with its many guest lecturers and speakers including policymakers, world-leaders and practitioners, all tackling today’s complex and rapidly changing world of international relations.

This popular, long-established and well-respected course will better equip you to progress towards your chosen career including within the field of analysis, consultancy, research, policy making, global and local governance, crisis intervention, peace-building, risk assessment, journalism, intelligence gathering and academia.

Entry Requirements / Admissions

LSE Graduate Support Scheme; other scholarships and awards are available.
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Theory and History of International Relations, MSc, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

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Costs

Average student cost of living in London

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

University Rankings

Positions of The London School of Economics and Political Science in top UK and global rankings.

See all 36 university rankings of The London School of Economics and Political Science

About The London School of Economics and Political Science

London School of Economics (LSE) is a Russell Group university, and is one of the member institutions of the University of London. Situated in the Westminster area of Central London, LSE is home to a diverse student body that comes from around the country and overseas to be a part of the experience.

List of 139 Bachelor and Master Courses from The London School of Economics and Political Science - Course Catalogue

Student composition of The London School of Economics and Political Science

Total number of students enrolled at The London School of Economics and Political Science by level Academic year 2021/22 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on February 2022
undergraduates:
5500
postgraduates:
6695
Total:
12195

Where is this programme taught

London School of Economics and Political Science
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