MA Migration Studies
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MA International Security
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA in International Security at the University of Sussex is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students interested in understanding and addressing the complex and evolving security challenges that dominate global politics. This program provides a deep exploration of international security, examining the political, economic, social, and military factors that contribute to global security issues. Topics covered include terrorism, armed conflict, nuclear proliferation, cyber threats, human security, and the role of international organizations in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. The program equips students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to assess global security challenges and contribute to the development of effective policies and solutions. Sussex’s interdisciplinary approach ensures that students can explore the intersections between security, political economy, and international relations, preparing them for careers in government, international organizations, think tanks, and the private sector.
Curriculum: The MA International Security program at Sussex offers a rich and diverse curriculum that covers the theoretical foundations and practical aspects of global security. Core modules typically include topics such as global security, international conflict, security and development, terrorism studies, and the politics of defense. Students also have the flexibility to choose from a variety of optional modules that allow them to specialize in areas such as international law, conflict resolution, peace studies, or the security implications of climate change. The program also includes a research dissertation, where students are encouraged to conduct original research on a security issue of their choice. Through the curriculum, students gain a robust understanding of the conceptual, historical, and current dynamics that influence global security while developing critical analytical and research skills. The program’s combination of theory and practical application equips graduates with the tools to tackle real-world security challenges.
Research Focus: The MA in International Security at Sussex is firmly rooted in the university’s commitment to research excellence. Sussex is home to several research centers, including the Sussex Centre for Conflict and Security Research, which focuses on global security issues, armed conflict, peacebuilding, and international conflict resolution. The program encourages students to engage with these research initiatives and contribute to the ongoing academic discourse on international security. The university’s faculty members are experts in their fields, and their research often intersects with pressing global concerns such as counterterrorism, global military strategy, international diplomacy, and the role of international institutions in conflict management. This research-driven approach ensures that students are exposed to the latest scholarship and are able to critically engage with the complex realities of global security.
Industry Engagement: The MA International Security program at Sussex places a strong emphasis on practical learning and professional development. The university maintains strong links with key international organizations, government agencies, think tanks, and security-related NGOs, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative projects. These industry connections allow students to gain hands-on experience in addressing real-world security issues while building valuable professional networks. Additionally, Sussex hosts regular guest speakers and organizes seminars featuring experts from the security sector, including policymakers, military leaders, and representatives from international organizations. These events provide students with insights into the practical challenges and opportunities within the field of international security. Sussex’s career services also offer personalized support for students, helping them navigate job opportunities in the global security sector and beyond.
Global Perspective: The MA International Security program at Sussex offers students a truly global perspective on security issues. The curriculum addresses both traditional security threats, such as military conflict and terrorism, as well as emerging security challenges, including cyber threats, climate change, and human security. With an international student body and faculty with expertise in various regions of the world, the program fosters a cross-cultural learning environment that encourages students to consider security issues from multiple viewpoints. The program also explores the role of international institutions such as the United Nations, NATO, and the European Union in managing global security challenges, preparing students to think critically about the effectiveness and limitations of global governance in addressing security concerns. This global outlook ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in international contexts, where security issues often transcend national borders.
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 Security at the University of Sussex equips graduates with a solid foundation in global security, preparing them for a wide array of career opportunities in the public, private, and non-governmental sectors. The program's comprehensive curriculum and focus on practical skills ensure that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complex and dynamic world of international security.
Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: One of the most common career paths for MA International Security graduates is to work in diplomacy, representing their country's interests abroad. Diplomats and foreign service officers play crucial roles in international negotiations, conflict resolution, and the promotion of bilateral and multilateral relations. These roles are typically based in embassies, consulates, or government ministries.
International Security Analyst: Graduates can work as security analysts, specializing in assessing risks, monitoring global conflicts, and providing advice on defense and security issues. These professionals often work for government agencies, think tanks, or private sector firms and provide critical intelligence on matters such as terrorism, cyber threats, and military operations.
Policy Advisor/Consultant: Many graduates pursue careers as policy advisors or consultants, working with international organizations, governments, or NGOs. These roles involve advising on the development of security policies, conducting research, and providing recommendations on issues related to national security, defense, and global peacekeeping.
Counterterrorism Specialist: With the growing concern about terrorism, many graduates opt for careers in counterterrorism, working for law enforcement agencies, security firms, or international organizations such as the United Nations. Counterterrorism specialists analyze threats, develop prevention strategies, and assist in efforts to combat terrorism on a global scale.
Military and Defense Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in the military or defense sector, working in roles such as defense analyst, intelligence officer, or military strategist. These professionals are involved in analyzing security threats, developing defense strategies, and supporting military operations in conflict zones.
Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Specialist: Many MA International Security graduates choose to work with international NGOs or humanitarian organizations, providing aid and support to communities affected by conflict, war, or natural disasters. They may be involved in project management, disaster relief coordination, or policy advocacy related to human security.
Intelligence Officer: Graduates can work in intelligence agencies, gathering and analyzing information related to national and international security. Intelligence officers play a key role in identifying security threats, monitoring geopolitical developments, and contributing to national defense strategies.
Cybersecurity Specialist: Given the increasing threat of cyber warfare, graduates with an interest in technology may pursue careers in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity specialists protect critical infrastructures and national security systems from cyber-attacks, ensuring the integrity and safety of digital information across government and private sectors.
International Relations and Security Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as consultants for multinational corporations or international organizations, advising on security risks, political stability, and global trends. These consultants help organizations assess political and security risks that could impact their operations in different regions.
Human Rights Advocate: Many graduates work with human rights organizations that focus on promoting peace, protecting civilians, and advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations in conflict zones. These roles involve both policy advocacy and on-the-ground action, including lobbying for changes in international law and global security practices.
Researcher/Academic in Security Studies: Some graduates opt to further their studies by pursuing a PhD in security studies or related fields, eventually becoming researchers, professors, or lecturers. These professionals conduct academic research on security issues, publish papers, and teach the next generation of students in the field of international relations and security.
Peace and Conflict Resolution Specialist: Graduates can work in the area of peacebuilding and conflict resolution, addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting sustainable peace processes. These roles are often based within international organizations, NGOs, or governmental peace initiatives.
Global Health and Security Professional: With growing recognition of the intersection between health and security, graduates may work in global health security, addressing issues such as pandemics, biological warfare, and health crises in conflict zones. These professionals work with international health organizations, NGOs, or government agencies.
Environmental Security Expert: As climate change continues to impact global security, environmental security experts focus on addressing the security implications of environmental challenges, such as resource scarcity, climate-induced migration, and natural disasters. These roles are found in government agencies, international organizations, and environmental NGOs.
