International Relations

Program Overview

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Durham University's MA in International Relations equips students with a comprehensive understanding of global challenges, international organizations, and their impact on international relationships. Through theoretical and empirical approaches, the program develops critical analysis, research, and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, politics, diplomacy, and related fields. The program emphasizes independent learning, research, and student-led discussions, fostering a vibrant learning community ranked among the top 100 in Politics and International Studies globally.

Program Outline

The program focuses on theoretical and empirical approaches to studying international relations, encompassing historical and contemporary perspectives.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the skills to critically analyze international politics, organizations, and global power dynamics.
• Develop research and analytical skills through the completion of a dissertation.
• Prepare graduates for careers in international organizations, politics, diplomacy, and related fields.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• International Relations Theory: Explores major concepts and approaches to studying international relations.
• International Organizations: Analyzes the role, functions, and development of international organizations in global governance.
• Dissertation: A 10,000-word independent research project on a chosen aspect of international relations.

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Structure:

• 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
• Core modules: International Relations Theory and International Organizations.
• Optional modules: Students can choose from various topics, including global governance, political philosophy, and regional politics.

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Course Schedule:

• 300 hours of learning per module, including lectures, seminar discussions, and independent study.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Group projects
• Presentations
• Podcasts
• Dissertation (10,000 words)

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Assessment Criteria:

• Critical analysis
• Research skills
• Writing and communication skills
• Originality and depth of understanding
• Contribution to class discussions

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Dissertation supervision
• Guest lectures and seminars

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Faculty:

• Experts in the field of international relations with active research interests.

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Unique Approaches:

• Integration of new research into the curriculum.
• Emphasis on developing independent learning and research skills.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• International organizations
• Politics and diplomacy
• Non-governmental organizations
• Journalism and media
• Business and finance
• Academia

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Graduate Outcomes:

• Successful careers in various sectors, including government, diplomacy, journalism, and academia.
• Employment with leading organizations, such as the House of Commons, Clifford Chance, and the BBC.

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Other:

• The program takes place at the School of Government and International Affairs, located in a modern building near Durham city center.
• The School has a vibrant learning and research community with students from over 50 different nationalities.
• The program is ranked in the top 100 for Politics and International Studies in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2023.

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Full Time Fees

• Tuition fees
• Home students: £12,900 per year
• EU students: £25,500 per year
• Island students: £12,900 per year
• International students: £25,500 per year

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Part Time Fees

• Tuition fees
• Home students: £7,100 per year
• EU students: £14,100 per year
• Island students: £7,100 per year
• International students: £14,100 per year
The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).