International Relations MSc

University of Glasgow

The Masters in International Relations is designed for those interested in study of the most challenging problems our world currently faces, such as international conflict and instability, terrorism, climate change, or rapid globalisation. Building on a thorough understanding of international relations theory, it trains you in how to apply and leverage methods and research design to answer the most pressing societal questions of our time. This programme offers comprehensive training in what international relations has to say about some of the most challenging problems in international politics and equips you with the appropriate methods and a good understanding of research design to analyse political data. It draws on expertise in the fields of international relations theory, normative international theory, international security, international organisations, non-state actors, human rights, humanitarian intervention, and international political economy. Three named pathways allow you to specialise in a particular area of international relations, and develop knowledge on specific world regions and specific themes. You can choose between the General, Global China, and Global Russia pathway. You will benefit from a number of research and teaching initiatives which touch on important international issues, including Global Security Roundtable, Global Security Network, Glasgow Centre for International Development, Glasgow Refugee, Asylum & Migration Network; and Glasgow Human Rights Network. During a 3-day study trip to Brussels you will gain first hand experience on how international relations is done in practice and get access to a highly sought after job market. Past visits have included the European Commission, the European Parliament, NATO, Scotland House, and the World Bank. You will gain a wide range of transferrable skills, including how to convey complex ideas and information effectively both orally and in writing, or how to analyse problems in international politics to inform the public debate. Extensive, tailored, writing, assessment and employability support is available throughout the programme.Career prospectsThis programme will provide you with the key knowledge and analytical skills relevant to a career in a variety of international settings.Career opportunities and pathwaysAs a graduate you will be prepared to embark on an international relations career. Our alumni have gone to become professionals in:civil and diplomatic servicesinternational organisations such as the United Nations or the European Unionmedia and journalismpolitics and governmentcommunicationsnon-governmental organisations (NGOs)consultanciesthink tanks.Some students go on to careers in academia via successful transition onto PhD programmes at the University of Glasgow and beyond.