MSc International and European Politics

Postgraduate entry requirements:

Application fee : £50

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

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.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc International and European Politics program at the University of Edinburgh possess a diverse skill set and deep understanding of global and European political dynamics, making them well-suited for a wide range of career opportunities in government, diplomacy, international organizations, think tanks, academia, and the private sector.  

1. Diplomacy and Foreign Service: Graduates can pursue careers in diplomacy and foreign service, representing their home countries in international affairs, negotiating agreements, and advocating for their nation's interests on the global stage. They may work for government ministries, diplomatic missions, or international organizations, engaging in diplomatic negotiations, policy analysis, and conflict resolution efforts.

2. International Organizations: Graduates may work for international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), NATO, or regional organizations, contributing to global governance, peacekeeping, development, and humanitarian initiatives. They may specialize in areas such as human rights, humanitarian affairs, conflict resolution, or sustainable development, shaping policies and programs at the international level.

3. Policy Analysis and Consulting: Graduates can pursue careers in policy analysis and consulting, providing research, analysis, and strategic advice to governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), think tanks, and private sector firms. They may conduct policy evaluations, develop policy recommendations, and assess the impact of political decisions on various stakeholders, helping organizations navigate complex political landscapes.

4. Political Risk Analysis: Graduates may work in political risk analysis, assessing the political, economic, and social factors that affect business operations, investments, and international ventures. They may analyze geopolitical trends, conduct risk assessments for multinational corporations, and provide strategic advice to businesses operating in diverse global markets, helping them anticipate and mitigate potential risks.

5. Academic and Research Careers: Graduates can pursue academic and research careers in universities, research institutes, and think tanks, conducting research, teaching courses, and publishing scholarly articles on topics related to international and European politics. They may contribute to academic debates, mentor students, and collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects, advancing knowledge in the field of political science and international relations.