MA International Relations and Security Studies

International security is a complex and rapidly evolving concern for many organisations, institutions and governments. Increased threats from terrorist groups and the risks these treats pose to many long-established security policies have led to a rapid development in the field of security studies.

This innovative new MA International Relations and Security Studies course gives you a critical approach to complex security problems and enables you to understand them at a global level of analysis.

The course offers you the chance develop an in-depth knowledge of security policies their challenges and the interconnected nature of threats.

What you'll study

This course will provide you with a solid grounding in the global problems, policies and institutions that influence international politics but have very real implications on everyday lives of individuals and existence of other security actors (societies, nation-states or the entire biosphere).

You’ll focus both on theoretical underpinnings of traditional International Relations and Security as well as more contemporary theorisation of Critical Security Studies and post-structural discussions in international Relations.

The course is designed through a combination of theory and practice to reflect the realities of the field and allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge to a variety of security-related issues. You’ll also have the chance to get involved with our Department led events, which range from guest lectures, parliamentary negotiation simulations to workshops in political communication.

How you’re taught

The course is delivered through traditional lectures and seminars and complex role-playing of international institution negotiations exercises. Other teaching methods include project-based work, presentations and discussions. You'll have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops and joint work with students of other postgraduate courses.

You'll benefit from our Student-Centred Active Learning Environment with Upside-Down Pedagogies (SCALE-UP), where learning is done through problem solving, sharing ideas, giving and receiving feedback and peer-to-peer teaching.

Assessment methods

Assessment on the course involves coursework, conducting your own research piece, individual and group class presentations and a reflective assessment. To encourage and facilitate independent learning the course will take full advantage of NTU's online workspace (NOW).

Careers and employability

As a graduate of this course, you'll have had the opportunity to reflect on the subject and transferable skills you have learnt while preparing coursework. These include expertise in writing complex, yet concise, analytical pieces, develop and implement projects, diplomatic and negotiation skills, and the ability to present in-depth ideas with confidence. You'll also be encouraged to articulate these skills in relation to particular occupations that you may be interested in pursuing.

This course focuses on developing the following skills: analysis, communication, time-management, team-working, problem solving, and IT / modern technologies. Each module on this course is designed to engage students in developing these skills, which often form part of assessed assignments. Moreover, private sector businesses are increasingly looking for graduates with an understanding of policy making and implementation, institutions, and processes.

You may also seek an internship and / or a placement during the summer months, you will be assisted by the course team to help you find relevant roles.

Students need an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK undergraduate honours degree (normally 2.2 or above). Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. You will be required to demonstrate how your experiences and knowledge would enable you to study this course at Masters-level in your Personal Statement.