MA International Relations

Overview & facilities

Studying the International Relations Masters at Middlesex in London will enable you to identify and assess national interests and analyse the foreign and defence policy needs of sovereign powers and the policy choices of national and international leaders.

We hold class meetings in surroundings strongly related to diplomatic activity and discussion. Our students are from all over the world and this diversity enhances debates and perspectives on global issues.

This course, which you can start in October or January, has step-off points at Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma levels and involves evening teaching, and guest lectures by diplomats, politicians and leading academics. Internship opportunities are encouraged but do not form part of the course.

Course highlights:

• Evening teaching
• Internship opportunities Guest lectures by diplomats, politicians and leading academics
• Study trips
• Step-off points at Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma levels
  

Download the course flyer

Content & modules

The global order has changed since 11 September 2001 and world politics is at a critical moment. Terrorism and extremism raise fundamental concerns about globalisation and peaceful co-existence. Studying international relations at Middlesex provides a relevant introduction to our rapidly changing world for the serious advanced student preparing for the future. We hold class meetings in surroundings strongly related to diplomatic activity and discussion. Our library facilities are used by international affairs professionals.

This programme is based at our flagship Hendon campus.

Classes are from 6.30 to 9pm on Tuesdays and-or Thursdays for two terms (full-time) or four terms (part-time).

Taught modules are assessed by book reviews, primary document reports and essays The final module is assessed by a dissertation proposal of 2,000 words, and the dissertation of 10,000 words.

Modules

• Year 1

  Global Security (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module analyzes changes in the global security agenda since the end of the Cold War, both empirically and theoretically. The meaning of security is explored and competing theoretical perspectives in the discipline are compared. The transformation of military security threats is then analyzed with particular emphasis on the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and the significance of global terrorism. The module then explores the rise of non-military issues of human security including environmental change, crime, disease, poverty, and disasters

  Globalisation (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module considers the implications for International Relations of forces of globalisation, both economic and cultural. It analyses the rise of international organisations, transnational politics and issues of global importance, and explores the theoretical debate surrounding these developments.

  Principles and Practice of International Relations (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module provides students with an understanding of how states interrelate and how and why foreign policy is made. Theoretical study is combined with an analysis of foreign policy decisions in the contemporary world.

  Research Skills (90 Credits) - Compulsory

  After six weeks of preparatory lectures, seminars and individual supervision, students present their dissertation proposals and, if satisfactory, proceed to writing a dissertation of 10,000 words.

 Download the course specification

Entry & applying

Please apply directly to Middlesex University Code M110

We welcome applications from graduates with a good honours degree, or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate subject. We also consider candidates with other relevant qualifications and individuals with a minimum of three years' work experience. Those without formal qualifications need to demonstrate relevant work experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.

Qualifications accepted

For a comprehensive list of qualifications accepted by Middlesex, see further information under entry requirements

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 in all four components) or TOEFL paper based 575 (no less than 4.5 in test of written English) or TOEFL internet based 90 (with no less than 19 in each component) Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks, depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk. For details of other equivalent English language requirements that Middlesex accepts see international entry requirements.

Applying

Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university. You will need to fill in an application form and return it to the appropriate admissions office. UK and EU students should apply directly to the London office. Non-EU international students can apply to our international admissions office in London, or use our network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application. Apply now

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for MA International Relations for the academic year 2012/13 is as follows:

UK/EU Students

Full-time students: £6,000
Part-time students: £50 per taught credit

Find out about our flexible payment plans for UK/EU students, and how they can help you spread the cost of your course.

International Students

Full-time students: £10,600
Part-time students:£93 per taught credit

Careers & placements

Many career opportunities exist for International Relations graduates. Working for the diplomatic services is a common destination, as is the voluntary sector where international NGOs often seek those with campaigning, policy and influencing skills. Furthermore, businesses throughout the world seek to employ people with knowledge of the global market place.