
International Relations, MA by Research / Ph.D. Distance Learning
Swansea UniversitySingleton Park Campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
Start dates: 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July. An MA by Research in International Relations at Swansea enables you to undertake a substantial project led by your own passions and interests. It represents a highly respected qualification which can present a pathway to a career in academia, or widen your scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector.
Your project will take one year full-time or two years part-time. It is suitable if you want to undertake a first research degree as an isolated culmination of taught studies, or if you are considering further research. You will submit a thesis of up to 40,000 words, demonstrating original research with a significant contribution to the subject.
This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination, or viva). A dynamic research environment is promoted through our research groups by committed staff who are all active researchers with a diverse range of interests and expertise. These groups include: Global Drug Policy Observatory (GDPO) International Studies, Conflict and Security (ISCAS) Political Analysis and Government (PAG) Our expertise includes: International Relations International Development International Security and Strategic Studies Conflict US Foreign Policy Intelligence As a research student, you are required to attend skills and training courses.
You will deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars, and at the Postgraduate conference.
Key highlights
- Self-directed research project led by your own interests
- Thesis of up to 40,000 words followed by a viva
- Research groups include Global Drug Policy Observatory and ISCAS
- Expertise spans security, conflict, US foreign policy and intelligence
- Required skills and training courses for research students
- Present at departmental seminars and the Postgraduate conference
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:1 — to include related subject; or above
- Additional condition: interview — …synopsis/proposal submitted by the applicant, their performance at interview (if required), intensity of competition for limited places and relevant professional experience (where appropriate).
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries
First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.
Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)
The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.
Careers this course leads to
- Academic researcher
- Lecturer
- Government policy adviser
- Intelligence analyst
- Political risk analyst
- Education professional
Cost of study
UK/Home: £5,006 per year | International: £19,800 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Swansea University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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