MA International Relations

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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 is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Queens University Belfast offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, diversity, and financial need. 

1. Queens Loyalty Scholarship: The Queen's Loyalty Scholarship is available for Queen's University Belfast graduates who pursue a postgraduate program at the university. It offers a 20% tuition fee reduction for eligible students.
2. Queens University Belfast International Scholarships: The university provides a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application requirements. Examples include the International Office Undergraduate Scholarship, International Office Postgraduate Taught Scholarship, and International Office Postgraduate Research Scholarships.
3. Vice-Chancellors International Attainment Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's International Attainment Scholarship is aimed at international students with exceptional academic performance. It provides a significant reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
4. Queens University Belfast Scholarships for Excellence: The Scholarships for Excellence program at Queen's University Belfast is designed to support high-achieving undergraduate students. These scholarships recognize exceptional academic performance and provide financial assistance to help students reach their full potential.
5. Country-Specific Scholarships: Queens University Belfast offers scholarships that are specific to certain countries or regions. These scholarships are designed to attract talented students from these areas and promote diversity within the university community.
6. Research Council Funding:For postgraduate research students, there are opportunities to secure funding through research council scholarships. These scholarships are competitive and cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses.
7. Sports Scholarships: Queens University Belfast also offers sports scholarships for students who excel in sports. These scholarships provide financial support, training facilities, and other benefits to help athletes balance their sporting commitments with their studies.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may vary each year. 

A Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations from Queen's University Belfast prepares graduates for a range of exciting and challenging career opportunities in the field of international relations.  

1. Diplomacy: Graduates can pursue careers in diplomacy and international diplomacy, representing their home countries in diplomatic missions, consulates, and international organizations. They may work as diplomats, political officers, or policy analysts, shaping foreign policy and promoting diplomatic relations.

2. Government and Public Service: Many graduates find employment in government agencies and public service organizations. They can work in foreign affairs departments, ministries of defense, intelligence agencies, or international development agencies, contributing to policy-making, strategic planning, and program implementation.

3. International Organizations: Graduates can work for international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in international affairs. They may contribute to peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, development projects, or policy research.

4. Non-Profit and Non-Governmental Organizations: There are numerous opportunities in non-profit organizations and NGOs that focus on international issues. Graduates can work in advocacy, human rights, refugee and migration services, conflict resolution, sustainable development, or social justice initiatives.

5. Research and Academia: The MA in International Relations prepares students for further academic pursuits and research careers. Graduates can pursue doctoral studies and become researchers, professors, or scholars, conducting independent research and contributing to the field's knowledge.

6. Think Tanks and Policy Institutes: Graduates may find employment in think tanks and policy institutes, which engage in research, analysis, and policy recommendations on various international issues. They can work as policy analysts, researchers, or program coordinators, providing valuable insights and influencing policy debates.

7. Journalism and Media: International relations graduates can work as journalists, reporters, or analysts specializing in international affairs. They may cover global events, conduct investigative reporting, or provide expert commentary on political developments, conflicts, and international negotiations.

8. International Business: With their understanding of global politics and economies, graduates can pursue careers in international business and commerce. They may work for multinational corporations, consulting firms, or trade organizations, contributing to market analysis, risk assessment, and business strategy in the international arena.

9. Research and Policy Consulting: Graduates can work in research and policy consulting firms, providing analysis and strategic advice to governments, organizations, and private sector clients. They may contribute to policy formulation, impact assessments, and risk analysis in a variety of fields.

10. International Development: Graduates interested in development work can contribute to international development projects and programs. They may work in areas such as poverty reduction, sustainable development, education, healthcare, or infrastructure development, aiming to improve the lives of people in developing countries.

The MA in International Relations from Queen's University Belfast equips students with the knowledge, skills, and analytical abilities needed to thrive in these diverse career paths. The program's interdisciplinary approach, research focus, and international perspective prepare graduates to navigate complex global challenges and make a positive impact on the world stage.