University of Leicester

International Relations MA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

This degree will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of contemporary international relations. By taking this course you will have the opportunity to study a range of international issues, and to investigate whether international relations in the post-Cold War period have been founded upon a Western model of 'World Order'. The course will introduce you to differing concepts of order in the post-Cold War world.

It will enable you to think critically about the nature of international relations: about the extent to which Western interests, institutions and culture dominate the world system and the challenges and responses generated by that dominance. The course focuses on both theoretical and empirical approaches to this subject. You will complete one core module which will critically examine the means by which the West maintains its concept of 'Order' and non-Western responses to it.

You can then choose three option modules, which, along with your dissertation, allow you to specialise in areas that interest you or complement your professional goals. As well as equipping you with a detailed understanding of contemporary international relations this degree will develop your ability to think both analytically and critically and to produce reasoned arguments encompassing your increased knowledge and understanding of the issues. It will also develop your practical transferable skills, including the ability to conduct independent research, verbal and written communication, and presenting and planning.

2:1 degree or its equivalent in politics, history, international relations or other related subjects. Equivalent relevant professional experience may be considered. IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard. Find yo

Key highlights

  • Examines whether post-Cold War order follows a Western model
  • Core module on Western 'Order' and non-Western responses to it
  • Choose three option modules to specialise in your interests
  • Dissertation lets you tailor study to professional goals
  • Combines theoretical and empirical approaches to international relations
  • Builds independent research, communication, presenting and planning skills

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:1 — to include politics, history, international relations or other related subjects

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount

    You are entitled to a discount of 20% of the new course fee.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • Chancellor's International Postgraduate Taught Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000
  • Chevening Scholarship

  • Chevening-Leicester Partner Scholarship

  • Distance Learning (DL) Sanctuary Awards

  • Distance Learning Merit Scholarship

    The awards available are: MA: £800, PGDip: £500, PGCert: £300

  • International Postgraduate Taught Merit Scholarship

    International Merit Scholarship worth a tuition fee discount of £5,000.

  • Leicester Postgraduate Partnership Scholarship

    Enjoy a 20% fee discount on a selection of postgraduate taught courses at either University of Leicester or De Montfort University.

    Up to 20% of fees

Careers this course leads to

  • Policy analyst
  • Diplomatic service officer
  • Political risk analyst
  • NGO programme officer
  • Government research officer
  • Think tank researcher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,800 | International: £19,400

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 University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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