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International Security MA / PGDip
- CampusBirmingham (Edgbaston)Delivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptember 2027DurationMA 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time
- AwardMaster of Arts / Postgraduate Diploma
- Entry requirementsHonours degree (2:1) or equivalent
- Fees (UK/Ireland)MA £11,790 (full-time) / MA £5,895 (part-time) / PGDip £7,860 (full-time) / PGDip £3,930 (part-time)
Course overview
Deepen your understanding of contemporary international security issues by exploring theoretical, empirical, and ethical dimensions with leading experts. Tailor your studies to your academic interests and engage in active research to address the evolving challenges of our world today.
Our MA International Security empowers you to tackle global security challenges, shaping you into a strategic thinker equipped with practical skills to influence positive outcomes on a global scale.
Course Structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
First Term
First Term
You'll study one 20-credit core module focusing on examining post-Cold War security theories, traditional military concepts, and emerging global issues, developing research skills and strategic foresight. The remaining 100 credits are gathered across 4 modules out of our list of Political Science and International Studies optional modules. Assessment will take place throughout the term as courseworks, written exams and/or presentations.
Second Term
Second Term
You'll delve into a 20-credit core module focusing on contemporary global security issues, examining their theoretical, empirical, and ethical dimensions to equip you for effective analysis and response. Customize your learning with additional credits from our Political Science and International Studies options. Assessments, including courseworks, written exams, and presentations, are scheduled throughout the term.
Summer Term
Summer Term
During this term, you will be completing assignments and focusing on your 60-credit research dissertation project.
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Why study International Security?
What makes this course different?
Our MA International Security offers you the opportunity to learn from specialists in their field who actively engage in shaping the global discourse on ethical governance and global perspectives. Delve into critical topics to gain a balanced understanding of theoretical frameworks, a robust skill set for practical applications and global network of peers and mentors, preparing you for impactful careers.
- Choose from an extensive range of optional modules to tailor your studies
- Study in a supportive environment with research-active international political economists
- Be a part of the International Relations and Security Theory research group
- Participate in a range of intellectual and social events alongside your programme to enhance your employability
- Top 2
We're consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
'The Graduate Market in 2026' High Fliers report
- #68
QS World University Rankings 2027
QS Top Universities
- #9
in the UK for research power in Politics and International Studies (REF 2021)
Course delivery
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.
- Lectures: Academics give organised talks to large groups of students who take notes, less interactive.
- Tutorials: Small group discussions with a tutor which are informal.
- Seminars: Small group sessions designed to complement lectures and are generally more informal in nature. They give you the chance to discuss issues with fellow students and allow for more interaction than a traditional lecture.
- Workshops: Workshops are for smaller groups, but instead of discussion, students might learn about a tool or a technique that they will be required to know about for their course. They are usually more hands-on learning that allow discussion regarding the given topic.
Module information
A Masters programme is made up of 180 credits in total. For this programme, you'll take two core modules (40 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits), and then choose four optional modules (80 credits) that reflect your own interests.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
or an equivalent qualification
International entry requirements
Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognised English test. For more information on what proof you will need, visit our International Postgraduate requirements page
English presessional programmes
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
- £11,790
MA (Full-time)
- £5,895
MA (Part-time)
- £7,860
PGDip (Full-time)
- £3,930
PGDip (Part-time)
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Tuition fee deposits for international students
International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.
Postgraduate Masters loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent). If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. We also offer advice and guidance on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
- 27 August 2027
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Ask us a question
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please speak to our team.
What can I do with an International Security degree?
Our MA in International Security prepares a new generation of professionals eager to influence global security landscapes. Ideal for graduates interested in security issues, practices, and international relations, our course offers diverse career pathways. Recent graduates have secured roles with prestigious organisations such as the United Nations, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, or the Department for International Development, enabling them to shape international policies and address global, strategic security challenges.
Your careers toolkit
Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.
Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:
- Careers support services and Careers Network
- Work experience and placements
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship
- Alumni and employer connections
- Global opportunities and life experience
- Careers in the curriculum
We are consistently one of the top universities targeted by graduate employers
We are one of the most consistently targeted UK universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2026). Read more about the achievements of our alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
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