International Relations

At a time when global challenges such as the environment, peace and security, health and human rights and sustainable development are subject to increasing debate, our MA International Relations will assist you in understanding both the problems and solutions we face as an international community in both theory and practice.

While many traditional MA programmes offer advanced theoretical knowledge, this programme also seeks to balance this knowledge with an exploration of its application in practice. As well as learning about diplomatic history and theory, students will have the added benefit of developing practical diplomatic skills, such as preparing briefing papers, policy documents and speeches, while still being complimented with the intellectual rigour associated with the study of international relations.

Our course will harness the experience of its lecturers and guest speakers to inspire a critical understanding of international relations in students who are determined that global governance meets the challenges of the 21^st century.

This well-rounded programme will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops, to ensure that equal weighting is given to theoretical expertise, interactive explorations of the application of theory in practice, as well as debate and mock governance situations to ensure an all-encompassing understanding of international relations and global governance.

Alongside compulsory modules designed to further your understanding in the foundations of international relations, human rights, global governance and research methods, we offer a wide range of optional modules which allow you to tailor your MA to your own specific interests in the field of international relations. These include topics such as genocide and international justice, migration and citizenship, environmental justice and politics, identity and diversity, as well as moot diplomacy sessions, debates and cooperative crisis simulations. You will also embark on your own research project in the final term of the programme.

There is increasing interest in careers in international relations, and London remains one of the world centres. Nestled in a quaint campus a bus ride away from the capital, students would benefit from interaction with senior diplomats and a range of diplomatic missions and international organisations. The programme is taught by leaders in the field of international relations, and will equip you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in a broad range of fields associated with global affairs.

Completion of a bachelor’s Degree at 65% or GPA of 2.5

Career Options

A key reason for the balanced approach between the theoretical and practical in this programme is a focus on employability. As you will be regularly assessed on practical applications of international relations knowledge such as drafting policy documents, speeches and press releases, you will be well equipped to enter a variety of fields in the commercial, public and charity sectors.

Typical employers for international relations graduates include banks, charities, IGOs such as the UN and UNICEF, international businesses, law firms, local and national government, media companies, as well as non-governmental organisations. A focus on the practical will also provide you with some of the necessary skills to embark on a career in the wider communications and public relations industry.

Our dedicated careers team is available to support you from the start of your studies until after you graduate. They will help you build your CV, prepare for interviews and meet and learn from successful Roehampton graduates working at the top of their careers. You’ll also have opportunity to attend a Roehampton jobs fair where you can find out more about graduate opportunities and meet employers.