UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE · UNITED KINGDOM
MSc International Relations
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 12 monthsFull-time study duration
- SeptemberPrimary start date
- Client-based projectsDissertation alternative
- UK University of the Year 2026Award recognition
- Scottish University of the Year 2026Award recognition
This Master of Science (MSc) in International Relations provides a comprehensive understanding of global politics, focusing on the theories, methodologies, and key issues that shape the international landscape. You will gain a strong foundation in analysing international phenomena such as conflict, peace, security, and cooperation, exploring the roles of states, international organisations, and social movements. The program combines rigorous training in diverse theoretical and methodological approaches, including both American and British, positivist and critical perspectives. You will have the opportunity to delve into specialist topics like international law, European Union affairs, security studies, and gender issues in international relations. The curriculum is designed to enhance your critical thinking, research, and data analysis skills, making you highly employable in various global roles. Opportunities for practical application include client-based projects as an alternative to the traditional dissertation, allowing you to work with real organisations and address contemporary challenges. The university's strong connections with government, industry, and research centres provide a rich environment for applied learning and networking.
Curriculum
The MSc in International Relations offers a structured learning experience with core classes providing essential theoretical and methodological grounding, and a range of optional classes allowing for specialisation. A dissertation, or an alternative client-based project, forms the culmination of the program.
- Core Modules
- Principles of Research Design
- Contemporary International Relations
- Optional Modules (Choose one per semester)
- International Institutions & Regimes
- Contemporary Security Challenges & Responses
- Feminism & International Relations
- International Political Economy
- Politics of Non-Democratic Regimes
- Advanced Topics in Civil Conflict
- Dissertation/Project
- MSc Dissertation or Client-based Project
Careers
Graduates are equipped for a range of careers in sectors such as government, non-governmental organisations, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, and the private sector. The analytical and research skills developed are highly transferable.
- Policy Analyst
- Researcher
- Diplomatic Services
- International Development Officer
- Political Risk Analyst
- Journalist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc International Relations?
- You typically need a good honours degree (minimum 2:1 or international equivalent) in a relevant subject to be considered for admission.
- What are the English language requirements for international students?
- For IELTS, a typical overall score of 6.5 is required, with no sub-test score lower than 5.5.
- How long does the MSc International Relations programme take to complete?
- The full-time study duration for the MSc International Relations is 12 months.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees are subject to change and can be verified on the University of Strathclyde's official fees pages.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- The EU Engagement Scholarships offer a £6,000 tuition fee discount and are available to applicants from EU countries.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this MSc?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in government, NGOs, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, and the private sector, with roles such as Policy Analyst, Researcher, and International Development Officer.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA good honours degree (minimum 2:1 or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.
IELTSTypically 6.5 overall (no sub-test lower than 5.5)
Please check the programme page for specific entry requirements as they may vary.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University's official fees pages for the most up-to-date international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University's official fees pages for the most up-to-date home tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs can be found on the University's student finance and living cost pages.
Tuition fees are subject to change. Please verify current fees on the University website.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the MSc International Relations programme.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather necessary documents, including transcripts, degree certificates, English language test scores, and references.
3. Complete Application FormFill out the online application form, available on the University of Strathclyde's website.
4. Submit ApplicationSubmit your completed application along with all supporting documents by the specified deadline.
5. Await DecisionThe admissions team will review your application. You will be notified of the outcome.
6. Accept OfferIf successful, formally accept your offer of admission.
7. Arrange Visa and TravelOnce accepted, begin the process for obtaining a student visa and making travel arrangements.
Scholarships
EU Engagement Scholarships£6,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc International Relations?
+
You typically need a good honours degree (minimum 2:1 or international equivalent) in a relevant subject to be considered for admission.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For IELTS, a typical overall score of 6.5 is required, with no sub-test score lower than 5.5.
How long does the MSc International Relations programme take to complete?
+
The full-time study duration for the MSc International Relations is 12 months.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees are subject to change and can be verified on the University of Strathclyde's official fees pages.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
The EU Engagement Scholarships offer a £6,000 tuition fee discount and are available to applicants from EU countries.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this MSc?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in government, NGOs, international organisations, think tanks, journalism, and the private sector, with roles such as Policy Analyst, Researcher, and International Development Officer.