Explore issues, problems and key theoretical debates that are crucial to international politics, preparing to lead a more ethical, practical and innovative change.
Prepare to shape your future in global affairs with our MA in International Relations. Delve into key debates and gain practical insights to lead impactful change worldwide.
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.
You'll study one 20-credit core module offering an overview of International Relations Theory, focusing on critical approaches and preparing you to engage with key issues and debates in this area. 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.
Our MA in International Relations stands out with its team of specialists, diverse research opportunities, and vibrant academic community focused on ethical leadership and global perspectives. Engage in comprehensive studies covering traditional and emerging areas, balancing theoretical and practical insights preparing you for impactful careers in government, NGOs, journalism, and more.
in the UK for research power in Politics and International Studies (REF 2021)
of our research rated world-leading (REF 2021)
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.
The programme is composed of two 20-credit core modules completed by four 20-credit modules from our list of optional modules. To complete this and graduate with the 180 credits that will award you the MA, you will have to undertake a 60-credit dissertation.
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.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Dilemmas in International Relations | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Dissertation | 60 | Full Term |
| LM International Relations Theory | 20 | Semester 1 |
Choose 80 credits from the following:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM China and the World | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Conflict, Statehood and Sovereignty in World Politics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Ethnic Conflict and its management: theories and case | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Gender, Peace & (In)security | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Nuclear Weapons in International Relations | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Politics and International Relations of the Asia Pacific | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM The European Union and Global Politics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM The Politics of NATO | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM The Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Varieties of Politics: The Comparative Politics of Parties, Institutions and Regimes | 20 | Semester 1 |
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.
or an equivalent qualification
For the MA programme you require a good Honours degree or its equivalent. For those whose first language is not English, an IELTS Certificate is required.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
MA (full-time)
MA (part-time)
PGDip (full-time)
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 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.
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.
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.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines
Application deadline for UK and non-tier 4 applicants We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
30 June 2024 is the application deadline for international students applying through the student route who wish to study in the United Kingdom. We are not able to consider applications for 2024 made after this date. The deadline for Home students is 30 August 2024.
Application Fee
For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee.
Personal Statement
Entry to this programme is highly competitive and as a result your application and personal statement will be closely scrutinised by our Admissions Tutors. Please ensure that you spend some time familiarising yourself with the programme modules and outcomes. Personal Statements should be relevant to the programme and how you believe it will enable you to achieve your career goals.
How to apply
To apply for a postgraduate taught programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
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.
Our MA International Relations prepares the next generation of leaders in global affairs. Ideal for those with undergraduate experience in international politics or those seeking to focus on this field at the postgraduate level, this course offers diverse career paths. Engage in government, NGOs, journalism, academia, or pursue advanced research as part of doctoral work. Each path equips you with the skills and knowledge to drive meaningful change on a global scale.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
