MA International Relations

Program Overview

The MA in International Relations at the University of Leeds provides students with a critical understanding of global political dynamics, international organizations, security studies, and the role of global governance in the contemporary world. The program is designed to give students a broad understanding of international relations theories while also focusing on practical issues and contemporary global challenges such as conflict resolution, climate change, human rights, and international economic relations. Students are encouraged to develop both theoretical and practical expertise, equipping them with the skills needed to engage in informed discussions on global political issues and to undertake research that contributes to the understanding of international relations in a rapidly changing world. This program is ideal for students looking to work in policy analysis, diplomacy, international organizations, or global consultancy.

Curriculum: The MA in International Relations at Leeds offers a diverse and comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical insights. Core modules typically include International Politics, Global Security, International Political Economy, and Research Methods in International Relations. These modules provide students with a deep understanding of the key areas of international relations and equip them with the tools to critically analyze global political events. In addition to core modules, students can choose from a variety of optional modules that allow them to specialize in specific areas, such as Conflict and Peacebuilding, Global Environmental Politics, Human Rights and Humanitarianism, and International Development. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students can undertake independent research on a topic of their choice, applying the knowledge and methodologies they have gained during the course.

Research Focus: The MA in International Relations at Leeds benefits from the university’s internationally recognized research strengths in political science, international relations, and global governance. The university’s faculty members are actively involved in research on a wide range of topics within international relations, including security studies, global economic governance, international law, diplomacy, and the politics of development. The research focus at Leeds is particularly strong in areas such as global security and conflict resolution, international political economy, human rights, and environmental politics. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects, and they benefit from access to cutting-edge research resources, including academic journals, libraries, and expert faculty guidance. This research-driven approach enhances students' understanding of contemporary international issues and prepares them for careers in research, policy analysis, and global governance.

Industry Engagement: The MA in International Relations at Leeds emphasizes industry engagement and provides students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience and build professional networks. The program’s close ties with international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and think tanks ensure that students have access to real-world insights and career development opportunities. Students can participate in internships, placements, and fieldwork, which provide them with hands-on experience in international relations practice. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for students to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures led by experts and practitioners from the field, helping them stay up to date with current developments in international relations. This industry engagement ensures that graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in diplomacy, policy analysis, international development, and global consultancy.

Global Perspective: The MA in International Relations at Leeds offers a global perspective that is central to the study of international politics. The program explores global political dynamics from a variety of regional and international viewpoints, allowing students to understand the interactions between states, international organizations, and non-state actors. Students engage with contemporary global challenges such as climate change, armed conflict, economic inequality, and human migration, which require a global understanding and collaborative solutions. Leeds offers a truly international environment, with students from diverse backgrounds and the opportunity to participate in study abroad programs and global research projects. The program’s global outlook ensures that students are prepared to engage with the key issues shaping international relations in the 21st century and to contribute to the global discourse on peace, security, and development.