MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MA Conflict and International Security
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Reading, located in the heart of the United Kingdom, is a prestigious institution renowned for its exceptional educational offerings and research excellence. The university provides a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degree programs. Among its notable postgraduate offerings is the MA in Conflict and International Security, which equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate global conflict issues, the politics of international relations, and the complexities surrounding international security. This program is designed for those interested in careers within international organizations, governments, and non-governmental sectors, focusing on the study of conflict dynamics, security policies, and international diplomacy.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in Conflict and International Security at the University of Reading is designed to provide a rigorous academic foundation, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The program covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to, the causes of conflict, conflict resolution strategies, the role of international institutions like the United Nations, the intricacies of peacebuilding, and the study of international law related to security. Students will engage with contemporary issues such as terrorism, human rights, military interventions, and cyber security, all through the lens of political theory and global security concerns. The curriculum is structured to offer flexibility with elective modules, allowing students to tailor their learning based on their career aspirations.
Research Focus: The University of Reading places a strong emphasis on research that addresses global challenges, particularly in the areas of conflict and international security. The university’s Department of Politics, Economics, and International Relations conducts cutting-edge research on international security dynamics, conflict management, and peace studies. Faculty members are actively engaged in research that influences global security practices, and students in the MA Conflict and International Security program benefit from exposure to the latest developments in the field. Research topics at the university often explore themes such as post-conflict recovery, the role of military power in international relations, environmental security, and the intersection of global security with human rights.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading fosters strong links with various industries and organizations, particularly in the fields of international relations, security, and diplomacy. Through guest lectures, internships, and collaboration with global institutions, students in the MA Conflict and International Security program gain firsthand experience and insight into the workings of international security agencies, governments, and global peace organizations. Industry engagement is a critical component of the program, providing students with networking opportunities and practical exposure to real-world security challenges. Moreover, students are encouraged to participate in conferences and seminars, where they can interact with experts and professionals from a variety of international security sectors.
Global Perspective: With a diverse student body and a faculty of international experts, the University of Reading offers a global perspective on conflict and international security. The MA Conflict and International Security program attracts students from all corners of the globe, creating a dynamic and multicultural learning environment. This international community provides students with a broad understanding of global security issues, including how different cultures and political systems approach conflict and security. Additionally, the university’s commitment to global outreach ensures that students are exposed to various international viewpoints and practices, enriching their academic experience and preparing them for careers in a globalized world.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: 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:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
The MA in Conflict and International Security from the University of Reading offers a comprehensive academic foundation designed to prepare graduates for a wide array of careers in the field of international relations, security studies, and conflict resolution. Graduates of this program possess the skills and knowledge needed to address complex global challenges, making them highly sought after by a variety of employers across different sectors.
International Relations and Diplomacy: Graduates with a background in Conflict and International Security are well-prepared for careers in diplomacy and international relations. Many alumni find employment within government agencies, embassies, and international organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, or NATO. These roles may include working as diplomats, policy advisors, or foreign affairs analysts, where graduates can influence decision-making processes related to global security, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. Their ability to analyze and provide solutions to complex geopolitical issues is highly valued in the realm of international diplomacy.
Security and Intelligence: Graduates of the MA Conflict and International Security program are often employed by national and international security agencies. Roles within military intelligence, counter-terrorism units, and cybersecurity firms are common career paths. Graduates may work as intelligence analysts, security consultants, or operations managers, where their expertise in conflict dynamics, security policies, and risk analysis can help protect national interests and prevent global threats. Their understanding of global conflicts and security challenges makes them key players in safeguarding national and international security.
International Organizations and NGOs: Many graduates find fulfilling careers within international organizations or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and post-conflict recovery. Organizations like the Red Cross, Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), and the International Crisis Group often seek individuals with expertise in international security and conflict management. Graduates can work as peacebuilding specialists, program coordinators, or policy advisors, where they contribute to conflict mediation efforts, provide aid in post-conflict regions, and advocate for human rights.
Academia and Research: For those with a passion for research and education, the MA in Conflict and International Security serves as a solid foundation for an academic career. Graduates may choose to pursue doctoral studies (PhD) in related fields such as International Relations, Peace Studies, or Security Studies. Many alumni go on to become university professors, lecturers, or researchers, contributing to the academic body of knowledge and advancing the study of global conflicts and security. Research roles within think tanks, research institutions, and policy analysis firms are also popular, where graduates work to analyze global security trends and offer strategic recommendations to governments and organizations.
Human Rights and Development: Human rights professionals and development specialists are in high demand within both government bodies and international organizations. Graduates can work with organizations that focus on human rights advocacy, international development, and social justice. Potential roles include human rights officers, development specialists, or international program managers, where graduates apply their knowledge of international law and conflict resolution to protect human dignity and contribute to sustainable development in conflict-affected regions.
Private Sector and Consultancy: The private sector also offers career opportunities for MA Conflict and International Security graduates. Consulting firms that specialize in political risk analysis, security management, and international business strategy often recruit graduates for their expertise in understanding global political risks and security concerns. Graduates can work as consultants, analysts, or strategic advisors, helping businesses navigate complex geopolitical environments, assess security threats, and develop risk management strategies.
Media and Journalism: Another career path for graduates is in journalism or media analysis, particularly in areas related to global security, conflict, and international relations. Graduates with strong writing and analytical skills may become war correspondents, foreign policy analysts, or geopolitical reporters. Their ability to understand and communicate complex security issues is invaluable in informing the public about ongoing conflicts, international negotiations, and global security developments.
Law and International Legal Practice: Graduates with an interest in law may pursue careers in international law, focusing on areas such as humanitarian law, international criminal law, or trade law. Many work with law firms, international courts, or government agencies that deal with security issues, human rights violations, and post-conflict legal frameworks. Graduates may also work as legal advisors to international organizations or NGOs, helping to shape policy and legislation that addresses global conflict and security concerns.
Conflict Resolution and Mediation: Graduates of the MA Conflict and International Security program can pursue roles as mediators or conflict resolution specialists. These professionals help facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties, develop peace agreements, and guide communities or nations through reconciliation processes. They can work with governments, international organizations, or peacebuilding NGOs, focusing on creating sustainable solutions to violent conflicts and addressing the root causes of social and political strife.
