MSc International Relations

University of EssexColchester Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

The University of Essex offers a one-year MSc International Relations programme that uses theory to analyse global events. Rather than a purely historical approach, the course emphasises explaining and interpreting international policies, cultures, and events. Students can tailor their learning by selecting optional modules from a diverse range, including global environmental issues, European democracies, global trend forecasting, and international security and conflict resolution.

Students develop analytical skills to understand diplomacy and the roles of international organisations in global affairs. By integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world examples, the programme prepares graduates for careers in policymaking, international organisations, NGOs, and diplomacy. The University of Essex's Department of Government, a leading European department recognised for its exceptional teaching and research, ranked 6th in the UK for research impact in politics and international studies (2021 REF), and contributes significantly to the programme's quality.

Furthermore, students have the opportunity to enhance their international experience and academic credentials by studying abroad at a partner institution. This dual award option allows students to earn two Master's degrees within two years, providing a unique and valuable addition to their postgraduate education.

Entry requirements

IELTS: 6.5 — 6.5 IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.

Scholarships

Alumni Loyalty Discount
First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.
Up to 20% of fees
Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship
School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.
Up to £5,500
Global Talent Masters Scholarship
You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.
Up to £5,000
Hugh Brogan Bursary
If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.
Up to £2,500
Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary
The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.
Up to £776
Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship
You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.
Up to £6,500
Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship
The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.
Up to £11,025
The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund
The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.
The Essex MBA Dean's Award
The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.
The Ronald J. Hill Fund
The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.
Up to £3,000
University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc International Relations from the University of Essex can work in various job roles such as:

Foreign Affairs Analyst
Diplomatic Officer
Policy Advisor
International Development Specialist
NGO Program Manager
Intelligence Analyst
Political Risk Consultant

Cost of study

International students for the 2025/26 academic year will be charged £22,750 for tuition.

Admission

Candidates are to submit through UCAS. For expert guidance, please contact the AHZ counselling team.

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