MSc International Relations

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For admission to postgraduate programs at UCD, the general entry requirement is a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in the student's previous academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no section below Listening 19, Speaking 19, Writing 21, and Reading 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120 with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

Regional Graduate Scholarships: UCD provides scholarships targeted at students from specific regions or countries, encouraging diversity and supporting talented individuals from those areas.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

UCD Research Scholarships: These scholarships are available to support international students pursuing research-based postgraduate programs, providing funding and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research initiatives.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

The MSc in International Relations at UCD offers a diverse range of career pathways in the fields of diplomacy, global governance, policy analysis, and international development, preparing students for roles in various sectors with an international focus.

1. Diplomatic Services: Careers in diplomatic missions, embassies, or consulates, representing national interests abroad and engaging in international negotiations.

2. International Organizations: Opportunities in organizations like the United Nations, European Union, or NGOs involved in humanitarian aid, development, peacekeeping, or policy research.

3. Policy Analysis and Advocacy: Roles in government agencies, think tanks, or policy research institutes, analyzing global issues and proposing policy recommendations.

4. Journalism and Media: Careers in international journalism, reporting on global events, foreign affairs, or working for media outlets focusing on international relations.

5. Consultancy and Research: Opportunities in consultancy firms, research institutes, or academia, conducting research on international relations, global governance, or geopolitical trends.

6. Humanitarian and Nonprofit Organizations: Roles in NGOs focused on human rights, humanitarian aid, development, or advocacy for social justice on an international scale.

7. Private Sector: Positions in multinational corporations or businesses with international operations, particularly in areas like international trade, corporate social responsibility, or risk assessment in global markets.

8. Academic and Think Tanks: Pursuing further academic studies or working in think tanks, conducting in-depth research on global affairs and policy formulation.