Join our Postgraduate Virtual Open Event

Book now

Join our Postgraduate Virtual Open Event

Book now

Postgraduate courses 2024/25

International Relations, MA

Explore a range of issues and actors in the global political system on this master’s degree in International Relations.

Our MA in International Relations combines the examination of theoretical and normative issues in the global political system with concrete explorations of the interplay between different actors including states, intergovernmental organisations, multinational corporations, NGOs and the civil society.

Student experience and achievement is at the heart of our teaching, which is informed by leading research and collaboration with external organisations. The interdisciplinary and practical nature of the course design supports students in acquiring content specific knowledge as well as in developing of a strong portfolio of skills that would enable graduates to remain competitive in the global work market.

Through a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops, external speaker discussion series, practical tasks, activities and relevant events, the course will prepare students for a range of careers in the field of international relations, including in higher education, international governance, civil service, and third sector.

Location

Greenwich Campus

Duration

  • 1 years full-time
  • 2 years part-time

Start month

September

Home/international fees 2024/25

£11,000 /£17,450

What you should know about this course

  • This MA is ideal for those who want to gain expertise in the increasingly complex nature of the global arena, and knowledge of key institutions and processes.
  • You will be taught by experts in the field of politics and international relations with extensive experience in research and practice.
  • You will interact with guest experts in the field and participate alongside academic colleagues in organising relevant events and activities on current topics and debates.
  • You will gain valuable knowledge and skills through innovative curriculum content and teaching methods that link theory and practice, and stimulate critical thinking.
  • You will study in a fast-paced environment, with access to key actors and organisations (policy-makers, NGOs, think tanks, and research institutions) in the heart of London.

What you will study

Subject to validation

We continually develop new courses to reflect the needs of students, employers, and professional bodies. This course is currently subject to the final stage of our approval and validation process.

In the unlikely event that the course is not approved before the start date, we will help you find an alternative course.

This course remains subject to validation. As such, the structure shown below is indicative only.

FULL TIME COURSE
Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory modules:

  • Research Methods and Skills (30 Credits)
  • Theories and Practice in International Relations (30 Credits)
  • Dissertation/Research Project (60 Credits)
  • Social Movements in the Global World (15 Credits)
  • International Migration and Governance (15 Credits)

Students are also required to choose 30 credits from this list of options:

  • International Human Rights Law (30 Credits)
  • International Criminal Law (30 Credits)

PART TIME COURSE
Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory modules:

  • Research Methods and Skills (30 Credits)
  • Theories and Practice in International Relations (30 Credits)

Year 2

Students are required to study the following compulsory modules:

  • Dissertation/Research Project (60 Credits)
  • Social Movements in the Global World (15 Credits)
  • International Migration and Governance (15 Credits)

Students are also required to choose 30 credits from this list of options:

  • International Human Rights Law (30 Credits)
  • International Criminal Law (30 Credits)

About the course team

Welcome to our Master's in International Relations, which is taught from within the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The members of the Politics and International Relations are an experienced team of academics and experts in international relations and politics. Student experience and achievement is at the heart of our teaching, which is informed by leading research and strong collaboration with governmental, non-governmental and commercial organisations.

Come and meet us

We are offering virtual events so that you can still experience how Greenwich could be the right university for you.

Next Open Days

Got a question?

To find out more about our Open Days and Campus Tours or if you need any assistance, please email opendays@gre.ac.uk.

Entry requirements

If you are

An undergraduate (honours) degree at 2:2, or above, in a relevant Humanities or Social Science subject.

Other subject areas may also be considered.

For more information, contact courseinfo@greenwich.ac.uk or 020 8331 9000.

You can also read our admissions policy.

The University of Greenwich accepts a broad range of international qualifications for admission to our courses. If you cannot find your country on this list, please contact international@gre.ac.uk.

Choose your country:

Available to overseas students?

Yes

Can I use Prior Learning?

Applicants with professional qualifications and/or four years of full-time work experience may be considered on an individual basis. If you hold qualifications or courses from another higher education institution, these may exempt you from courses of this degree.

How you will learn

Teaching

Teaching will typically take place through lectures, seminars and workshops that combine the critical discussion and analysis of theoretical concepts and debates with their practical application through exercises, group-work, simulations and problem-solving tasks. These activities will be supplemented by hands-on experience through visits to - and collaborative work with - relevant organisations.

Class sizes

This course will run, if validated, for the first time in September 2024 so we are unable to give an indication of class sizes.

Independent learning

Outside of timetabled sessions, you will need to dedicate time to independent study to prepare key readings, research, presentations, course work and other required tasks. Our Stockwell Street library and online resources will support your further reading and research. You are also encouraged to participate in the extra-curricular activities organised by the Politics and International Relations team (including the Political Insights series bringing guest speakers working in diplomacy, party politics, non-governmental organisations, etc.).The University of Greenwich Students' Union also offers the opportunity to join a wide range of student societies.

Overall workload

Your overall workload will consist of the timetabled contact hours (lectures, seminars, workshops), independent learning, and assessment preparation and submission. If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job. For part-time students, this will reduce in proportion to the number of modules you are studying.

Assessment

On this course, students will be assessed though a combination of essays, reports, presentations, reflective pieces and practical and creative projects that encourage the development of nuanced expertise in the field, knowledge of relevant research methods, and strong critical, analytical, communication, digital and creative skills. The course culminates with an extensive research project in the form of a dissertation developed with the support of a supervisor.

Feedback summary

In accordance with the University policy, we aim to provide feedback to assessments within 15 working days.

Dates and timetables

The academic year runs from September to June. Full teaching timetables are not usually available until the start of the term. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.

Fees and funding

Your time at university should be enjoyable, rewarding, and free of unnecessary stress. Planning your finances before you come to university can help to reduce financial concerns. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Full time Part time Distance learning
Home £11,000 £1,850 per 30 credits N/A
International £17,450 £2,908 per 30 credits N/A

Accommodation costs

Whether you choose to live in halls of residence or rent privately, we can help you find what you're looking for. University accommodation is available from £126.35 per person per week (bills included), depending on your location and preferences. If you require more space or facilities, these options are available at a slightly higher cost.

Accommodation pages

Funding your study

There is a range of financial support options available to support your studies, including the Aspire@Greenwich award for study resources that many full-time students will receive.

EU students may be eligible for a bursary to support their study. View our EU bursary to find out more.

Discover more about grants, student loans, bursaries and scholarships. We also provide advice and support on budgeting, money management and financial hardship.

Financial support

Further costs may include (but are not limited to):
Field trips: you may need to pay travel costs to attend some visits to relevant organisations in and around London, or extra-curricular activities.

Careers and placements

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

The course prepares students for careers in the public sector (civil service, governmental organisations, diplomatic service), in inter-governmental organisations, risk analysis, public and private sector management, advocacy, education and political communication.

Do you provide employability services?

Employability activities take place all the time at Greenwich and students are encouraged to take part in as many opportunities as possible. The central Employability and Careers Service provides support for students preparing to apply for placements and graduate roles, such as CV clinics, mock interviews and employability skills workshops. In addition, your School has a dedicated Employability Officer who will be organising work-related activities throughout the year which will help you to build your industry knowledge and networks.

Support and advice

Academic skills and study support

We want you to make the most of your time with us. You can access study skills support through your tutor, our subject librarians, and our online academic skills centre. Where appropriate, we provide support in academic English. If you need any particular IT packages support for a specific module, we provide training for that.

Support from the department

The School of Humanities and Social Sciences provides pastoral support throughout your studies with us. Students have a personal tutor and access to training in study skills, dissertation preparation, methods and ethics, and have access to advice on careers. You will be able to access research facilities available in London, especially our Stockwell Street Library in Greenwich and the British Library. You will be supported further by our teaching team, who will encourage you to access public events and conferences, research seminars, panel debates and exhibitions across London.

Accommodation information

Skip image gallery

Not quite what you were looking for?

We've got plenty of other courses for you to choose from. Browse our postgraduate courses or check our related courses below.....

International relations at the University of Greenwich

Gain an understanding of how international relations shape our world view and enjoy our great location within London – a global city and one of the world’s great political, trading and cultural centres.

Visit our international relations degrees page.

Political insights for Greenwich’s students


Two more events in the ‘Political Insights’ series gave Greenwich’s International Relations students a unique insight into politics in Europe and Australia.

Mode of study

Select from the dropdown below.

Course level
UCAS code
Duration
Location

Apply now

If you are a UK student or have settled/pre-settled status (EU) and you want to study full-time then you apply through the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS).

If you are a UK student or have settled/pre-settled status (EU) and you want to study part-time then you can apply directly via our online application form.

If you are from outside the UK, you can apply via UCAS, directly via our online application form or via one of our in-country representatives. If you require a student visa, you cannot study part-time at undergraduate level.