MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MA International Relations
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA in International Relations at the University of Sussex is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students who are interested in understanding the complex and dynamic nature of global politics. This program provides an in-depth exploration of international relations, examining key themes such as global security, international law, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and global governance. Students gain a critical understanding of the major political, economic, and social forces that shape international relations in today’s interconnected world. With a focus on both theory and practice, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government agencies. The MA in International Relations prepares graduates to engage with global political challenges and contribute to global peace, security, and development.
Curriculum: The MA in International Relations at Sussex offers a well-rounded curriculum that combines foundational theories of international relations with contemporary issues in global politics. The core modules of the program cover subjects such as international relations theory, global security, foreign policy analysis, and international political economy. Students will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as conflict and peacebuilding, human rights, environmental politics, or global governance. The curriculum is designed to provide both a theoretical framework and practical tools for analyzing global political issues, giving students a deep understanding of global institutions, actors, and processes. The program encourages students to think critically and analytically about international relations and equips them with the skills to research, debate, and present their findings in a clear and persuasive manner. Sussex also offers the flexibility to tailor the program to specific areas of interest through optional modules and a dissertation project.
Research Focus: The MA International Relations program at Sussex is grounded in the university’s strong commitment to research excellence. Faculty members are leading experts in their respective fields, and research is a key component of the program. Sussex has a robust research culture that covers a wide range of global issues, including international security, conflict resolution, global governance, and international law. The university is home to several research centers, such as the Sussex Centre for Conflict and Security Research, the Global Political Economy Centre, and the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), all of which focus on critical global issues. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects, and many have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge academic work on topics such as global inequality, climate change, and human rights. The research focus at Sussex ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in international relations and can critically evaluate contemporary global challenges.
Industry Engagement: The MA International Relations program at Sussex places a strong emphasis on industry engagement and professional development. The university has established links with key international organizations, government agencies, think tanks, and NGOs, offering students access to internships, placements, and networking opportunities. These connections provide students with the chance to gain real-world experience in international relations and build valuable professional networks. Sussex also regularly hosts guest speakers from international organizations, diplomatic services, and global advocacy groups, allowing students to learn from leading professionals in the field. The university’s career services offer personalized support, helping students with job search strategies, CV building, and interview preparation. Additionally, the program includes opportunities for students to participate in simulations, debates, and collaborative projects, helping them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop skills that are highly valued by employers in the international relations field.
Global Perspective: The MA in International Relations at Sussex is designed to offer a global perspective on international politics, encouraging students to understand global issues from multiple viewpoints. The program covers the international systems and institutions that govern global affairs, including the United Nations, the European Union, and multinational organizations. With a diverse student body representing a wide range of nationalities and cultural backgrounds, the program fosters a rich learning environment where students can engage with diverse perspectives on global political issues. This international outlook is reinforced through the program’s focus on global security, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Students are also encouraged to explore the connections between global politics and pressing issues such as climate change, migration, and the global economy. The global perspective of the program ensures that students are well-prepared to work in international settings and to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 21500
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 65% 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 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The MA in International Relations at the University of Sussex prepares students for a variety of exciting career opportunities in the dynamic and complex field of international politics. By offering a comprehensive understanding of global politics, security, diplomacy, and global governance, the program equips students with the skills needed to pursue diverse roles in both the public and private sectors, as well as in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international institutions. Graduates of the MA in International Relations can take on key positions that allow them to shape international policies, work on global security issues, and promote social justice.
Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing their country’s interests abroad. These professionals play a crucial role in international negotiations, resolving conflicts, and advancing diplomatic relations between nations. This career path may involve working with embassies, consulates, and international organizations.
International Development Specialist: Working for international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), World Bank, or various NGOs, graduates can contribute to development initiatives aimed at reducing poverty, promoting human rights, and improving global health, education, and sustainability.
Policy Analyst/Researcher: Many graduates of the MA International Relations program find roles as policy analysts or researchers, where they analyze global political trends, assess policy impacts, and provide recommendations to government bodies, international organizations, or think tanks. These professionals play a key role in shaping policies related to international security, economic development, and global governance.
International Security Specialist: Graduates with a focus on security studies can work for governmental agencies, international organizations, or private sector firms specializing in global security. These professionals are tasked with analyzing security threats, developing risk assessments, and advising on national and international security strategies.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: Many MA International Relations graduates work for humanitarian organizations that respond to crises such as natural disasters, armed conflicts, or refugee displacement. As aid workers, they design and implement programs to provide essential services, including food, shelter, healthcare, and education, to affected communities.
NGO and Advocacy Specialist: Graduates can work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that advocate for human rights, environmental protection, or social justice. In these roles, graduates may be responsible for policy advocacy, organizing campaigns, conducting research, and engaging with governments and international bodies to promote change.
International Trade and Economic Policy Advisor: Graduates can pursue careers in international trade and economic policy, advising governments, businesses, and international organizations on trade agreements, economic regulations, and global market trends. They may work in policy analysis, economic forecasting, or the development of trade policies.
International Relations Consultant: As consultants, graduates may work with multinational corporations, government agencies, or international organizations to advise on diplomatic relations, conflict resolution, political risk, and global strategic planning. Consultants help organizations understand the global political landscape and how international issues affect their operations.
Journalist/Foreign Correspondent: Some graduates choose to become foreign correspondents or international journalists, reporting on global political, economic, and social issues. In this role, graduates provide in-depth analysis and coverage of international events, often working for major media outlets.
Research Fellow or Academic: For those interested in academia, the MA in International Relations provides a strong foundation for pursuing further studies at the doctoral level (PhD). Graduates may become researchers, professors, or lecturers, contributing to the academic field of international relations through publications, conferences, and teaching.
Global Governance and Human Rights Expert: Graduates can work in international human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch, advocating for the protection and promotion of human rights worldwide. They may also engage in global governance work, advising international institutions on human rights policies, laws, and practices.
Foreign Affairs Analyst: Working with government bodies or think tanks, foreign affairs analysts focus on geopolitical trends, international relations, and global power dynamics. Their work involves producing reports, briefing governments, and offering insights into foreign policy decisions.
Environmental Policy Advisor: With the increasing focus on global environmental issues, graduates can work as environmental policy advisors, helping governments, NGOs, and international organizations design and implement policies related to climate change, sustainability, and environmental justice on a global scale.
